ELF 26

A Maxi-Micro, the ELF is a production boat, originally drawn for boisterous South African coastal sailing but now extensively updated and improved for the European market.

Longer and larger than most micros, ELF offers increased space, carrying capacity, seaworthiness and speed, thus making it suitable for longer trips, or even as a budget offshore racer.

Incredibly for an 8 metre trailable boat, ELF has 3 separate cabins, for complete privacy and comfort. The separate toilet compartment and ergonomically designed galley are fully moulded and easy to clean, but ELF's most interesting feature is the removable cockpit cuddy which offers - for the first time on a trailable cat  a full size double bunk and bridgedeck saloon.

Even with the cuddy fitted ELF complies fully with the IMMCA class rules and its predicted rating of 1.1 implies speeds around 10 knots to windward and over 20 offwind in ideal conditions. At all times, ELF has fingertight steering, is unusually responsive, yet can steer "hands off" for long periods.

Despite its high performance potential, ELF is safe and easy to sail. The high bridgedeck, long cabin and knuckle in the topsides result in a dry boat, even at speed.

The furling jib, lazy jacks and fully battened mainsail make even singlehanded sailing easy. The wide overall beam, relatively low rig and buoyant forward sections help increase stability.

A 6 hp outboard gives a 6 knot cruising speed and it can be turned to give excellent manoeuvrability in close quarters. Alternatively 15 hp gives a 10 knot cruising speed  you can tow a waterskier with 35 hp!