Fiu is a French boat that we had never heard of, and we are still the only one I have ever seen in the US. The boat was drawn in the early 80's by the Etarn design team in France. Most of the boats were built at the Soubise Yard in France (they still make catamarans and other custom designs today). The original owner decided to use the French CNB yard that is famous for its Lagoon Catamarans. Being built a decade later, allowed for some new innovation in building that made her lighter and stiffer than her predecessors. Fiu is also the, only one I have seen, that is aft cockpit, sloop/solent rig and setup as a family boat for 2 or more. Her lines always bring onlookers commenting on her pedigree.

The reaction we get, when someone comes to view Fiu, is that this boat must be seen. Many boats advertise well and have great pictures. But, we are always told, that she is better in person. Being a custom boat, it is difficult to understand layout, woodwork condition, and overall quality of build. Setup an appointment to view Fiu today. You will not be disappointed.

WELL BUILT, LIGHT AND STIFF:

Displacement 20,000 lbs.

Ballast 9500 lbs.

Mast Height 54'

These numbers tell a lot. When you look at nearly a 50/50 displacement to ballast ratio, you know the boat is built with the weight in the right area. The deck is FOAM cored. Toe rail down is solid fiberglass with an additional longitudinal stringer midway down between the bulkheads. The boat has a modified full keel, with keel/transom hung rudder all the way aft for optional tiller steering. The swing keel increases draft from 4'9" to 7'9".

FAST, STABLE AND QUIET:

The short mast, boom and small head sail are evidence enough of her easily driven hull. The rig has all of the performance tweaks to make racers happy. There is a spinnaker and whisker pole, but I have not used either. All of the hardware is present to use them. We are always sailing in the 7 knot range and peaking in the 8's. I am sure with a racer mentality and new sails, she would be at the front of any PHRF fleet. For us, the small sail plan and easy speed, make it a pleasure to sail and a boat we have never felt insecure with. The quiet comes from the fine bow entry and the semi canoe stern that leaves a smooth, non-whitewater wake behind us. The stability comes from the near 15' beam. The folding prop adds to her light air performance. The anchor chain is also stored just forward of the mast to keep weight away from the bow. The extra forestay is designed for a hank on sail, but adding a roller furler would then create a Solent rig. The Soloent rig is the most sought after for offshore boats today. The forestay, halyard and hank on sail are all there.

COMFORT, COMFORT, COMFORT:

Fiu has been our home for 6 months every year. There are three staterooms, 2 double aft and 1 v-berth forward. A single large head/shower with vanity area. All in fiberglass with easy access for maintenance and cleaning. The galley has a large molded in dual bowl sink and built in dish drain area. The best feature are the two long and deep seating areas in the salon. We have seated 8 guests for dinner and the long bunks make great lounging areas when reading or watching TV. Above the salon, there are large port lights to get rid of that typical down below feeling. Everyone who comes aboard, says the same thing when they come below, "This is huge!" The cockpit has a full enclosure for all weather sailing. Hydraulic steering. All instruments are on the NavPod with easy access at the helm.

SPECS:

LOA: 43' 0"

Beam: 14'9"

Draft: 4'9" & 7'9" board down

Displacement: 20,000 lbs.

Ballast: 9500 lbs.

Mast Height: 54'

Engine: Yanmar 4Jh2-TE 4 cylinder diesel

62 Hp

Hours: 3145

Prop: 3 blade variable folding

Shaft: 13/8" Stainless with PSS Dripless Shaft Seal