It has a fractional sloop rig with anodized aluminum spars, a nearly plumb stem, a vertical transom, a transom-hung, kick-up rudder controlled by a tiller and a retractable centerboard.

A fixed keel model was produced in small numbers and carries 195 lb (88 kg) of iron ballast.

[1][3][5] The boat has a draft of 3.83 ft (1.17 m) with the centerboard extended and 6 in (15 cm) with it retracted, allowing beaching or ground transportation on a trailer.

[3] The design is equipped with a lockable storage compartment in the bow and gear lockers under the seats.

Javelin has an unusually large (nine-foot) cockpit, a gear locker under the seats, and a lockable storage compartment under the deck.