LOTUS 10.6

About the LOTUS 10.6

Thanks to 'kestrahl' for providing updated information.

Designed by Alan Wright and built by Lotus Yachts (NZ), the Lotus 10.6 is a compact cruiser with a production run of 150 hulls starting in 1980. This single-year production model offers a fractional sloop rig and a displacement of 10980.0 lb, representing a specific era of New Zealand yacht building.

Best for:

This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize a manageable 34.75 ft LOA and a beam of 11.83 ft for stable, comfortable day sailing. Its fractional sloop rig and moderate sail area-to-displacement ratio of 20.28 make it accessible for small crews or single-handers seeking ease of handling.

Bluewater capability:

With a capsize ratio of 2.13 and a comfort ratio of 20.11, the Lotus 10.6 is primarily designed for coastal use rather than extended bluewater passages. Its fin keel and moderate displacement suggest it is best suited for protected waters and shorter offshore trips.

Comparables:

Comparable boats include the Catalina 34 and the O'Day 35, which share similar beam dimensions and fractional sloop rigs from the same late-1970s to early-1980s era. These vessels offer similar interior volumes and performance characteristics for coastal cruising.