J/120 of 1998 – high-end cruising-racing, ready to sail This J/120 from 1998 is an excellent example of what J Boats does best: a v...
1998 J/120 - high performance cruiser-racer ready to sail
This 1998 J/120 is an excellent example of what J Boats does best: a true fast, lightweight, reliable, and comfortable cruising sailboat. The boat has recently undergone significant structural work, as well as a comprehensive upgrade of the rigging, sails, and safety equipment, making it particularly reassuring for those seeking a high-performance sailboat without surprises.
The boat is owned by a French company, which allows, in the case of purchase by a European company subject to VAT, to recover/deduct the VAT on the acquisition.
Construction and hull
The hull and deck are built with high-tech balsa/ fiberglass sandwich using the vacuum infusion process "Scrimp system," known for its stiffness, light weight, and durability. The hull and deck were molded by TPI Composites (USA) and finished by J Composites in France, ensuring quality craftsmanship.
The deck features a bi-tone non-slip coating. The hull is finished in an elegant blue gelcoat "Flag Blue" with white boot stripe and sheerline.
Recent major work:
Complete sanding of the hull and thorough preparation of the underwater hull.
Keel-bulb bond completely redone by a professional
Recent refinishing of the varnished interior for a clean and healthy look.
The lead keel is attached to a reinforced molded stub and the boat is steered by a balanced balanced rudder mounted on an anodized aluminum spindle. The helm wheel is equipped with a new Carbonautica wheel (2023), providing precision and comfort.
Engine powered by a Volvo Penta MD2040B inboard diesel, with a folding Gori propeller on a stainless steel shaft, coupled with a 110-liter diesel tank.
Rigging, fittings, and deck
The boat is fitted with an aluminum Sparcraft mast and boom, with a shaped mast and two sets of aerodynamic spreader bars. Particular attention has been paid to:
Rigging fully replaced in 2023.
New Profurl roller furling (2023).
Retractable carbon fiber bowsprit, ideal for Code 0 and asymmetrical spinnakers.
Lazy jacks and reef bands for easy handling with a reduced crew.
Jackstays installed.
The deck fittings are racing-grade:
2 primary Harken 48ST winches.
4 Harken 44ST winches for halyards and mainsheet.
Spinlock clutches for halyards and sheets.
Harken genoa tracks with adjustable cars from the cockpit.
Harken jib track.
Harken mainsail track.
Deck safety is ensured by fore/aft lifelines, double lifelines, and a stern boarding ladder.
Sails
The sail plan is a major asset of this boat, featuring a recent top-end wardrobe and a full suite of offshore sails:
Recent sails (2023):
Carbon mainsail (2023).
Carbon genoa #2 (2023).
Carbon genoa #3 (2023).
Code 0 (2023).
A setup perfectly suited for IRC/ORC racing, offshore navigation, and fast cruising.
Electrical and electronic
The electronic equipment is complete and well-sized for offshore racing and demanding cruising:
Navtex.
Garmin chartplotter with Loch/Speed, depth sounder, wind speed and direction.
7 Raymarine displays on the deck (2023), providing all navigation information at a glance.
Autohelm ST50 electronics unit with repeaters (compass, VMG, Maxiview on mast).
Autohelm ST5000 linear hydraulic autopilot (Raytheon).
Navigation GPS + GPS AP 8 with repeater.
VHF with antenna.
Electrical equipment:
Electric anchor windlass SL Anchorman 700G with foot controls.
Combined masthead navigation lights and deck spotlight.
Freshwater and seawater pumps.
Dockside socket and battery charger.
Interior
The interior is warm and marine, finished in varnished mahogany by J Composites, with recently refurbished varnishings. The layout offers comfort and functionality, suitable for both racing with a crew and family cruising.
Eberspacher heating for comfort in mid-season and winter.
Two new freshwater tanks of 90 L each.
Large-capacity refrigerator.
Gas stove with oven and two burners.
Kitchen block with double sink and pressurized hot/cold water.
New toilets (2023).
Sleeping arrangements:
V-berth forward with double V-bed and head (toilet/sink/shower).
Salon with settees + pipe cots (pipe berths) port and starboard.
Double aft cabin.
Upholstery in good condition.
Chart table oriented forward, with storage and easy access to electronics. Numerous lockers and storage spaces for equipment and provisions.
Deck equipment and safety
Deck equipment:
Download hood with frame.
Navigation lights and spare VHF antenna.
Bruce anchor 15 kg with 50 m chain, with modified bowroller for stowage.
Racing anchor 10 kg with 15 m chain, stored in padded locker.
Hatch ports at mid-length on each side.
Dinghy engine support on the stern platform.
Flagstaff and socket.
Mast flag halyard.
2 additional mooring cleats midship.
3 harness attachment points in the cockpit.
Safety:
AIS.
EPIRB.
Rescue wheel.
Crown buoys, lifeline retrieval line.
First aid kit.
Life raft with full equipment.
High seas distress rocket pack.
Tax situation
The boat is owned by a French company. In case of acquisition by a European company subject to VAT, the purchase can be made with deductible/recoverable VAT, offering a major financial benefit for charter programs, team building, or fleet ownership.
Ideal for racing-cruising programs, coastal or offshore racing, Fastnet, RORC, or fast cruising.