Great boat and a great value. First Bought it new in 1976 and have held onto it for these many years. Am older now and thinking of parting company. Have sailed it from NY to Florida where I now reside. Boat has served myself and my family admirably. Trustworthy and sound under all conditions which I have experienced... sailing to Cape Cod... Block Island.. Shelter Island....etc...etc... The Danes build them well.
Needs some wind to unwind her. Anything from a reach to a run can be exhilirating. Willl head up, but as the case with most not the most comfortable point of sail.
Not intended to race... has a full keel. Volvo engine, like most engines, is something sailers have to put up with.
Reviewing a 1975 model.
Owned for more than 5 years.
Having owned my Great Dane for three years and covering over a thousand miles this year with my family of four I canÂ’t say enough about the boat.
I am over 6 foot tall but still have head room below, and the cockpit will sit four adults with comfort.
The only down side to the Great Dane is that it takes a stiff breeze to get us going, but once started she performs like a thoroughbred. I can carry full sail anywhere aft of the beam in up to a force 6 and she has the displacement to ride large swells with ease.
In light winds I find myself reaching for the engine controls before other lighter boats, but I also find myself leaving harbour in rough weather while others are sitting in the bar (maybe not a bad thing).
I have on several occasionsÂ’ paced larger boats and found myself proud to own a Great Dane.
Owned for 3 years.
Preloved Visitor
Reviewed July 2002.
Performance
Safety
Accomodation
Overall Value for Money
I imagine that performance is a state of mind. When sailing alone on the water the boat performs flawlessly, but requires a good bit of wind to move at hull speed (5 knts). With other boats around you definately feel the full keel and added drag (weight) of the accomidations. Downwind sailing is a pleasure, with only very light pressure required on the tiller to maintain course. We regularly see speeds in exess of 8 knts, and speeds over 10 knts are not unfamiliar.
Handling in heavy air (40+ knts)has proven to be very acceptable. The boat shoulders large waves well and never has any tendencies to "hobbie horse". You will find us on the waters of San Francisco Bay and the California coast when much larger boats have retired.
Qaulity through out continues to amaze me. I have owned this boats for 9 years, and although always reluctant to disassemble anything, once the job is done, I am fully satisfied that the parts used throughout the boat are of the highest quality and aging well.
Owned for more than 5 years.
Preloved Visitor
Reviewed April 2002.
Performance
Safety
Accomodation
Overall Value for Money
Her lines and performance attract many a possitive reaction. She sails wonderfully and it is surprising to see how easily she keeps up with today's light weight, over canvased designs. Inside we esspially appreciate the very comfortable front V-berth (no hassle with feet) and the kitchen which offers plenty of drawers for whatever one needs on long trips. If you find one, pay attenion to the GRP in cabin and cockpit. It may show some signs of aging (which does not say anythint about the quality).
Owned for 5 years.
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