Design
systems for the running backstays run behind fairings that double as foot bars. The simple fine-tune systemto adjust the rudder connecting rod toe-in setting for the twin rudders is another example of the attention to detail, as is the fuse systemon the rudders to prevent damage in the case of a collision with an underwater object. Working with Allen Brothers in the UK, the Farr X2 teamcreated a rudder cassette systemthat allows the 100kg sheer pin to break and the rudder to kick up on impact. Security and reliability have been
constant themes throughout the design and construction of the X2. ‘The two- spreader rig has 23-degree aft swept spreaders so it’s very robust which is of course key for a shorthanded boat,’ says Perry, ‘and given the importance of the running backstays for changing gear, a Cyclops load cell is included as standard.’
The X2’s dreadnought bow increases the waterline length to boost its upwind VMG
to create a boat that was specifically focussed and optimised towards one rule. Instead, we took a broader view where the overall performance of the boat came first. This meant that we set our first goal as achieving a boat with good upwind performance to ensure we could hang in there before exploiting the benefits of a powerful modern hull form once we cracked off. ‘Britton Ward was the
chief naval architect for the project at Farr Yacht Design, where they ran 700 hulls through their CFD programme with these characteristics and objectives in mind. The result is a hull with a long waterline length for the upwind performance and powerful beamy sections to create good form stability and a potent performance off the breeze.’
A big step forward From her dreadnought bow and a reverse sheerline (which helps to reduce and centralise weight and centre of gravity), to her chine, beamy sections aft and twin rudders, the X2 is clearly a contemporary design. Her basic specification reinforces
76 SEAHORSE
‘The X2 is clearly a contemporary design’
this and reveals why this new design is considered to be a big step forward. When compared to the production market (with boats like the JPK 1030, J99, Dehler 31, Jeanneau Sun Fast 3300 and others), t he X2 may be the same length and have about the same amount of sail area, but at a displacement of just 2,450kg she’s a whole tonne lighter. Her basic construction is a Vinylester E-glass laminate either side
of a PVC core making for a conventional and robust construction for both hull and deck. Carbon is used but only in key areas where there is a distinct performance benefit, namely in the Seldén rig and the chainplates. Aside from her modern looks and a
powerful sail area to displacement ratio, it is the overall versatility and the design details and that make her stand out. One example of this is the fixed fin and bulb keel configuration, which is fully encapsulated in a composite case created from female tooling. This ensures precise control over the section shapes and finish. In her cockpit, the cascade control line
Extra righting moment When it comes to versatility, 250ltr water ballast tanks on either side create the equivalent righting moment of two to three crew ensuring that the X2 will be competitive, be it fully crewed or shorthanded. ‘Our estimates are that the water ballast system will account for around five to six points on an IRC rating which we estimate will be around 1.083,’ he continues. But perhaps the most obvious giveaway
as to the X2’s aspirations for longer offshore races and a shorthanded crew is the 400mm overhang on the coachroof that will provide good protection when the going gets tough. Having several years of experience of
solo sailing and a blank sheet of paper to start from has meant that Perry and his team have been able to consider the design in forensic detail throughout every step of the process. And yet Perry is also acutely aware that setting your goal in creating the optimum offshore 30-footer often means you also have to stand back and consider the basics too. ‘When you’re sailing doublehanded and
pushing as hard as you can, the last thing you want to do is to wake your crew up to make you a cup of coffee,’ he says. ‘So while it’s a broad generalisation, you need a boat that is well mannered and a deck layout that is easy to work. The ability to cross sheet is a good example of where subtle details can make a big difference.’ And while the X2 is clearly a striking
design in her own right, it will doubtless be details like this that will attract the most attention.
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