The J/122 set new standards for 40-foot «dual-purpose»yachts, suitable for full cruising as well as for racing, whether coastal or offshore. The boat is optimized for IRC handicap racing, but is also a fully equipped cruiser. The very small 40 foot displacement, large sailing area and low centre of gravity combined with very easy handling have made the boat competitive in racing with both low winds on smooth water and strong winds on waves.
Even in a long race, a yacht can only be driven by two people. A curious detail: the yacht is equipped with a so-called «coastal handrail». For long distance cruising it is installed behind the wheelhouse, closing the cockpit and making the stay on board safer. Before the race, it can be removed together with the heavy elements (stove, refrigerator, gas cylinders) that are unnecessary in the race and stay on the shore.
