Choosing Your Perfect Etap Sailboat: A Comprehensive Guide to Unsinkable Cruisers

Embark on Your Next Adventure: The Ultimate Guide to Etap Sailboats

For sailing enthusiasts, finding a boat that balances safety, performance, and comfort is the holy grail of yachting. Enter the world of Etap sailboats. Known primarily for their legendary “unsinkability,” these Belgian-crafted vessels have carved out a unique niche for sailors who want peace of mind without sacrificing the thrill of the wind in their sails.

Whether you are a seasoned captain or a weekend warrior, understanding the nuances between the various Etap models is key to making the right investment. Let’s dive into the evolution of these remarkable cruisers.

The Evolution of Etap: From the Classic 22 to the Modern 22s

The Etap journey began in 1974 with the Etap 22. Designed by E. G. van de Stadt, this model was a powerhouse of production, with over 1,800 units built by 1984. It is a sturdy, heavier boat, making it ideal for those who prefer a stable, calm ride. It offered both a lifting keel for shallow waters and a fixed ballast keel for better performance.

In 1983, the Etap 22i arrived, bringing a breath of fresh air. Designed by Jacques de Ridder, the 22i is lighter (about 275kg less than the original 22) and slightly wider. This weight reduction translates directly into agility; the 22i accelerates faster and reacts more dynamically to wind gusts.

By 1997, the Etap 21i took over as the entry-level cruiser. Contrary to its name, it wasn’t just a smaller version of the 22i but a completely new design. It featured a wider hull and more versatile keel options. This design evolved further into the Etap 22s, which refined the 21i’s hull with upgraded non-slip coatings, aluminum rubbing strips, and optional twin retractable rudders.

The Secret Sauce: Why Etap Boats are Unsinkable

The most striking feature of any Etap boat is its construction. Etap utilizes a double-skin fiberglass hull filled with closed-cell polyurethane foam. This innovative engineering serves three critical purposes:

• Maximum Safety: The foam provides enough buoyancy to keep the boat afloat even if the hull suffers significant water ingress.
• Better Insulation: It keeps the cabin warmer in the chilly Canadian autumns and cooler in the summer.
• Quiet Sailing: The foam dampens noise and reduces condensation inside the cabin.

Performance and Handling: Which Rig Suits You?

Depending on the model, the sailing experience varies significantly due to the distribution of the sail area:

• The Classic Etap 22: Relies heavily on the headsail (genoa), making it a traditional and steady cruiser.
• The Etap 22i: A middle-ground approach, offering a more manageable sail plan than the original 22 but remaining conventional.
• The 21i and 22s: These move the power to the mainsail. With a larger main and a smaller jib, they are significantly easier to tack and maneuver, making them perfect for solo sailors or families.

Interior Comfort and Cockpit Design

While all Etap models feature an open-plan layout with a forward berth and side settees, the feel varies. The Etap 22 offers the most headroom (approx. 1.60m), though the keel trunk takes up significant floor space. In contrast, the 21i and 22s feel more modern and airy because they lack the bulky keel trunk in the salon.

In the cockpit, the older models (22 and 22i) provide more shelter with higher coamings. However, the 21i and 22s offer a more open, social space, moving the outboard motor to a stern bracket to free up seating area.

Buyer’s Guide: What to Check Before You Buy

If you are looking for a used Etap boat, prices can range from €2,000 for a classic 22 to over €22,000 for a well-maintained 21i. To ensure you get a seaworthy vessel, keep an eye on these points:

1. The Keel: On the 22i, ensure the lifting keel moves smoothly without grinding noises. For fixed keels, check the hull-to-keel joint for impact damage.
2. The Rudder: Older models with wood-core rudders can rot if water penetrates the fiberglass. Check for soft spots.
3. The Mast Base: In 22i models, inspect the area around the mast for cracks or softened laminate.
4. The Engine Mounts: Ensure the outboard supports are stable and not corroded.

Final Verdict: Which Etap is Right for You?

Choosing the right boat depends on your sailing style:

• The Traditionalist: Go for the Etap 22. It’s a soulful, solid cruiser for those who love a classic feel.
• The Explorer: The Etap 22i is your best bet. Its lifting keel is perfect for shallow Canadian lakes and easy trailering.
• The Modernist: The Etap 21i or 22s offers the best ease of handling and contemporary design, ideal for families and solo trips.

For more information on sailing safety and regulations, visit the Sailing World portal to stay updated on the latest maritime trends.