Mastering J/Boat Performance with Jeff Johnstone: Tuning, Tactics & Speed (Part 2)

02/17/25 • 21 min

Sailfaster: The Podcast For Racing Sailors

In Part 2 of my chat with Jeff Johnstone, President of J/Boats, we dive into the art of getting the most out of your J/Boat on the racecourse. Jeff shares invaluable insights on optimising boat setup, crew coordination, and tuning techniques that can make all the difference in competition. From rig tuning and weight distribution to the importance of repetition and dialing-in manoeuvres, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for every racing sailor. Plus, we explore the philosophy behind J/Boats’ design and why performance and ease of handling are at the heart of every model. Whether you’re new to racing or looking for that extra edge, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Previous Episode

J/Boats’ Jeff Johnstone on Designing Performance Racing Boats (Part 1)

Today I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Jeff Johnstone, President of J/Boats, to Sailfaster. If you’ve spent any time on the water, chances are you’ve sailed or raced on one of their iconic boats. From the game-changing J/24 to the latest J/99, J/9, and J/45, J/Boats has set the standard for speed, versatility, and pure sailing joy. Jeff has been at the helm of J/Boats since 1988, continuing the Johnstone family’s legacy of innovation and excellence. Under his leadership, the brand remains at the forefront of performance sailing, making it faster, more thrilling, and accessible to sailors of all levels.

In this first part of our chat, we take a deep dive into the J/boats design philosophy and process, we discuss the trends in performance sailing design, and how the different J/boat models came to be. And don’t miss Part 2, where Jeff will share his top tips for getting the most out of your J/Boat on the racecourse!

So let’s crack on—here we go with Part 1!

Next Episode

Sail Faster, Race Smarter: Insights from Stephanie Roble

In Part 1 of my chat with two-time Olympian, Stephanie Roble, we discuss her techniques for mental preparation, visualization, and pre-race routines. We’ll also dive into starting strategy, boat handling drills, and decision-making under pressure, plus the intensity of an Olympic sailing program. Steph’s an elite skiff and keelboat racer, with World, National, and North American Championship titles across multiple sailing classes. The 2014 Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year, she partnered with lifelong friend Maggie Shea to pursue her Olympic dream, ultimately competing in two Olympics in the 49erFX Skiff. A great discussion with Part 2 coming next!