Etchells

Specifications Under Current Rules
Number of crew 3 or 4 LOA 30 ft 6 in LWL 22 ft Beam 6 ft 11 in Hull weight (with fittings) 3,324.6 lbs Sail Area of Main and Jib Main: 188 sq ft, Jib: 103 sq ft Sail Area Spinnaker 400 sq ft

The International Etchells Class is a racing class of one-design sailing boats.

The yacht designed in 1966 by E. W. "Skip" Etchells. The class was known as E22 until the name was changed to Etchells in 1990. Over the years, the Etchells has become increasingly popular and is now raced by members of more than fifty fleets around the world.

The Etchells is a fast, stable racing sloop that can be raced competitively and safely by three or four sailors. She can tack in 70 degrees and is extremely sensitive to subtle adjustments in tuning and trim. She has a sleek hull with relatively little wetted surface area, which allows her to move well in the lightest breeze. In heavier winds, she absolutely flies. Her sail plan includes a main, jib, and spinnaker.

The class's strict one-design principles were established in the late 1960s and are controlled today by a strong, well-managed class association. The class and the International Sailing Federation maintain tight control of the construction of these yachts, ensuring the high quality and uniformity of each Etchells built. The one-design principles help the Etchells hold her resale value exceptionally well.

The Etchells is a fiberglass boat with aluminum spars; it has no electrical systems or auxiliary power. It is trailerable and light enough to drysail. The materials and techniques used in her construction make her easy to maintain and repair.

Famous Etchells sailors include:

• Dirk Kneulman
• John Bertrand
• Dennis Conner
• Gary Jobson
• Russell Coutts
• Dave Curtis
• Poul Ricard Hoi Jensen

External links

• International Etchells Class website
• North American Etchells Class website
• International Sailing Federation
• Etchells class history