J/88 Fly: Your Sausalito Adventure Awaits with Modern Sailing's Newest Premium Sportboat
Sausalito sailors, prepare for a new level of performance and excitement! Modern Sailing is thrilled to announce the arrival of Fly, our J/88 Speedster, now permanently at our Sausalito location. This marks a significant milestone, bringing our first Premium Sportboat with an inboard engine and tiller steering to this stunning gateway to the Bay.
Why Fly is Turning Heads: The J/88 Advantage
The J/88 Fly isn't just another performance boat; it's a versatile machine that blends exhilarating speed with surprising comfort. As Tom Richman, owner of Fly says, “The J/88 is a rocket. Flying the kite in 28 knots through Golden Gate with the boat planing at 18 knots really focuses the mind! You can’t worry… you’re simply alive.”
USCG Captain, ASA-certified instructor and MSC fleet mechanic, Capt. Timan Eatherton agrees, "Fly is easy-to-control, fast, nimble, and responsive. She provides an authentic racing experience even in light air." Imagine the thrill of slicing through the Bay's chop, the tiller responsive in your hand, and as Capt. Timan gushes, "She is sporty! Like driving a Porsche throught the winding backroads of Marin county."
Sailing Fly offers:
- Unmatched Performance: With its carbon fiber mast, efficient hull design, and powerful, non-overlapping sail plan, Fly delivers exceptional speed and responsiveness, perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Its high aspect sail plan also allows it to “ghost along while others have to motor” in light air.
- Cruising Comforts: Beyond the speed, Fly provides a comfortable sit-in cockpit, a functional overnighting interior with two full-length settee berths, a private head, a mini-galley, and a large cooler. This means you can extend your adventures from exhilarating day sails to relaxing overnights.
- Easy Handling: Designed for simplicity, the mainsail and furling jib can be deployed in minutes. All halyards and sheets lead to the cockpit, and the primary winches are within easy reach, making it manageable for smaller crews or even solo sailors. The asymmetric spinnaker, flown from a retractable carbon bowsprit, can be handled by a two-person crew.
- Robust Construction: The J/88 features an all-composite hull, deck, and structural grid infusion molded for maximum strength and durability.
- Stability and Control: The 6.5' fixed L-shaped keel with a low VCG lead bulb, combined with the balanced hull form, provides exceptional directional stability and control, even in challenging conditions.
From Rolex Big Boat Series to Your Next Charter:
Fly has already proven its mettle in prestigious events like the Rolex Big Boat Series, showcasing its speed and agility. Our racing team, including MSC 2023 Top Racer award winner, Tim Kordas, have experienced the thrill of pushing Fly to its limits. Tim, who has extensive experience with our J/105s, offers a unique perspective:
"I have sailed aboard the J/80, and the J/105s, but this was my first time aboard a J/88. I was very excited to crew the Rolex Big Boat Series, and learned a lot through the practices and race days on a boat that is new to me.”
Tim's excitement and anticipation highlight the J/88's distinct appeal, even for those familiar with other performance boats like our J/105s. Now, you can experience that same excitement on your own terms. Team Fly will be participating in the SYC Spring Sunset Series with Racing Coach Rolf Jaeger guiding our Level 2 Development Race Team.
Not Just for Racers: A Boat for All Sailors
The J/88 is designed to bring "performance sailing to all ages and abilities," making it perfect for afterwork sailing with family and friends, small crews, or competitive racing. While Fly excels in racing, its versatility makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a dynamic sailing experience. Whether you're planning a day of high-speed sailing with friends or an overnight adventure exploring the Bay, Fly is ready to deliver.
How to get Fleet Rated to Charter the Premium Sportboats
Modern Sailing members with a Sportboat-Silver Fleet rating can charter the J/88.
- If you are charter rated to sail the Silver fleet, you can join the Upgrade to Sportboat Clinic and this will give you charter access to the J/88, J/80, and J/24s.
- If you are charter rated to sail the Gold and Platinum boats, the 4-day Upgrade to Sportboat Clinic will give you charter access to the above, plus the Premium Sportboat, J/99 Mymble in Berkeley.
- If you are charter rated for Sportboat - Silver only in Berkeley, take our half-day Orientation Sail in Sausalito to charter both sites, including Fly J/88 now in Sausalito.
New to the J/88? We've Got You Covered!
We understand that stepping aboard a new boat can be daunting. That's why we offer complimentary Dockside Briefings for all J/88 charters. Our knowledgeable team will walk you through the boat's features and systems, ensuring you feel confident and prepared before you set sail.
How to Book Your Fly Adventure:
Ready to experience the thrill of Fly? Booking your charter is easy! If you are Sportboat-Silver, Sportboat-Gold, Sportboat-Platinum, or Sportboat-Catamaran rated, simply:
1. Book your reservation online or call 415-331-8250 to book your charter.
2. Request a complimentary Dockside Briefing when you make your reservation. Please let us know the time you plan to arrive at the boat.
3. Arrive before your crew, and allow for at least 15 minutes for your Dockside Briefing.
Find out How to Get Rated to Charter with a Spinnaker at Modern Sailing, including on the J/88 Fly.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience the unique blend of performance and comfort that Fly offers. Your Sausalito sailing adventure awaits!
