A unique contribution to the sailing world. This beautiful design by Chris Koper is based on his father’s (Jack Koper) proven and successful Sonnet Class (over 500 built in South Africa). Chris optimized the Sonatina by giving her more sail power and a more easily driven hull shape.

Light overall weight and the generous sail plan enhance light wind performance, resulting in a very attractive alternative for areas where winds tend to be light to moderate. A taller higher aspect ratio rig (mast is 6.15 m) and deeper foils promote upwind speed. Narrower beam than the Sonnet and compound-curve shapes underwater reduce wetted surface drag for increased speed, and soften the hull’s action in the waves.

She is fully capable of handling a Western Cape blow, showing sparkling performance in a breeze. The scow form ensures wonderful sail-board-like reaching speed. It’s a stunning sensation to ride the waves with a blast of wind in the sails! The Sonatina is a great project to build at home, using top quality Okoume plywood and epoxy-glass/wood saturation technique. Home-building kits are available at modest prices, and can be purchased in stages to spread the cost over time.

The unique FlexRig® arrangement makes resetting the rig for single-handed sailing easy. It promotes mast bend, flattens the sail to reduce sail power, and makes control of the boat easier.

Expert sailors will love the ability to add a large spinnaker and trapeze for dramatic performance enhancement. They will never run out of excitement as they learn to handle her performance – yet basic stability is much greater than the narrow “sport-boats.”

We are looking forward to strong interest in the Sonatina. She is already being built in four countries. See the designer’s website: www.sea-k-designs.com for more pictures, background information, and technical details.

Length: 4.4 m.

Beam: 1.45 m

Weight: Hull only: 68 kg;   All up: 90 kg

Sail area: Main & Jib: 11.4 sq m. Spinnaker 11,5sqm. Single handed: 8.2 sq m