Really retro, the Thales 30
A cat-rigged gaff yawl is not exactly common in modern boat building. A Czech shipyard nevertheless shows courage and brings an exciting retro design onto the market - suitable for the coast and at an affordable price.
But what about the sailing properties, the living and operating comfort or the quality of workmanship. And anyway, which sailing clientele did the shipyard orientate itself on when designing the Thales? So much can be revealed: the creators have succeeded in a lot, but also not in some.
The two-master, which at first glance appears strange, has a shallow draft, making it ideal for shallow inland and coastal areas. On the other hand, with a length of 9.20 meters, the boat is only 2.50 meters wide. This has an effect with a little more wind: The Thales pushes position properly. In light winds, on the other hand, the maneuvering behavior leaves something to be desired
The idiosyncratic rig geometry allows the boat to be sailed comfortably for two. There is even space for at least four crew members in the cockpit. The angular lines, on the other hand, won't suit everyone's taste.
The list of strengths and weaknesses of the Thales 30 can be continued. Anyone who has become curious and wants to know more can find out everything about the boat in the new YACHT (issue 5/06, from now on in newsagents).