It has a fractional sloop, a raked stem, a vertical transom, a transom-hung rudder controlled by a tiller and a fixed fin keel.

The boat is normally fitted with a small outboard motor for docking and maneuvering.

[3] In a review Michael McGoldrick wrote, "...The 540 tends to compete with the Sandpiper 565, and it is a step up from those small sailboats that come with a minimalist cuddy cabin.

While the Edel 540 has a fix keel with 331 pounds of ballast, the wide beam provides for a lot of stability.

It's nice looking boat and it tends to appeal to people who want a pocket cruiser that truly looks like a little yacht.