Our late Chief Operations Officer Bill Moreland, a 100 Ton Master Captain whose 40-plus years of sailing experience included mainly a robust variety of cruising boats in the 30 to 60-foot range. During a Team Sail at our Berkeley location, Bill had his first taste of sailing the J/105 and was immediately smitten with the model. He was elated with her eager swiftness in light winds, graceful responsiveness, stability, and ease of balance.
"The J/105 is an absolute joy to sail!" he said enthusiastically. Bill's wish for Modern Sailing to have a J/105 at both the Sausalito and Berkeley locations came true in November 2023.
J/105s are thought of as the "big sister" of the J/24 and the ideal San Francisco Bay day sailor. With similar rigging and all the fun, fast, and responsive performance of the J/24, and the added amenities of a comfortable salon, marine head, galley, and roomy cockpit, the J/105 appeals to sport sailors and cruisers alike. She is the perfect choice for sailors who enjoy speed and performance while entertaining larger crews on longer excursions around the Bay. The model also sails beautifully in both light airs and heavy winds for enjoyable sailing on the Bay year-round.
Sausalito members who have completed ASA 104, Bareboat Cruising and a Berkeley Site Orientation Sail and those who completed the ASA 104 or US Sailing Bareboat Cruising course in Berkeley are qualified to charter the J/105s Nirvana and Resolute. The Berkeley Racing Clinic is also helpful but not required. Joining a fun and informal BYC Chowder Race is another great way to experience this model. You only need a Basic Keelboat (ASA or US Sailing) certification to participate in a Chowder!
Don’t just take Bill’s word for it - experience it for yourself. After a day of sailing the J/105, you’ll be walking on air!
