59er: Senior Skiff

The 59er is a non-trapeze, 4.7m sailing dinghy, rigged with an asymmetric spinnaker. It is designed for a crew weight of 145kg to 180kg. Performance expectations are that it be similar to the 49er/29er model.

With the success of the 49er and 29er, demand has grown for a similar type of skiff for older, less agile sailors. Initially, Frank Bethwaite experimented with a spinnaker on a Tasar but the numbers just did not work, so a new hull and rig were designed.

The 59er came into existence in late 2000, originally as the 39er. "59er" more accurately reflects the chronological position of the boat and the fact that it's target market is older than both the 29er and 49er.

During late 2000 and most of 2001, the 59er was sailed and tested against other known classes by as wide a variety of weights and skills as have been available by the many sailors who have volunteered to sail the prototype. Frank Bethwaite measured and listened carefully and made adjustments all the time.

59ers in the UK - a report from Dave Hall of Ovington Boats

We have a dozen boats out now including two demo boats that I make sure are used all the time.

We will have our first boats going to Switzerland and Germany soon with a small fleet going to Norway if the deal comes off. Menorca Sailing in Spain have also ordered 2 boats for their centre on the Island. Menorca Sailing are the UK's premier sailing holiday specialist.

There is a full UK racing circuit set up including the National Championships in Plymouth with the 29ersand 49ers.

We have also organised an Ovington Eurocup for 59ersat Torbole in the beginning of July. This will be with the B14s and maybe some ITA 29ersand 49ers. It is a bit close to the 29er/49erworlds/Europeans really but it was worth booking to get Garda! If any teams from Aus would like to come I will organise boats/ crews.

The new class association website is at http://www.59er.org.uk

Specifications