Winter Boat Show

One more entry from our series

Reader Frank Durant sent us a late entry for our Winter Boat Show series. Enjoy! —Eds

1985 Jenneau Eolia 25, Frank Durant

I ordered Deja Vu at the Toronto boat show in winter of 1985, taking delivery late spring. It was near the beginning of the influx of euro boats with their totally unique designs, and I was smitten.

Listed as a 25 (LOA) she actually only has a 23-foot 7-inch hull, and although a relatively small boat, what her designer has done is quite remarkable. She has an open interior with large dinette, chart table and usable galley with a gimballed two-burner stove. Aft to port is a double berth complete with a small hanging locker and seat.  Aft to starboard is quite a large head with vanity and hanging area for wet gear.
I ordered the optional keel/centerboard model with a lifting rudder. Board up she only draws 2’ 7”, perfect for Bahamas and Florida Keys.

Last year, once the border opened, I trailered her from Ontario Canada down to Florida where she was rigged and launched. After a Gulf Stream crossing, we are currently cruising the Abacos. A sweet sailor, she still puts a smile on my face 38 years later. •SCA•