etchell yacht specifications

Etchells Sailboat: The Ultimate Guide

by Emma Sullivan | Jul 19, 2023 | Sailboat Maintenance

Short answer etchells sailboat:

The Etchells sailboat is a highly competitive one-design keelboat class known for its strict measurement rules, exciting racing, and high-performance characteristics. Designed by Skip Etchells in the 1960s, it has since become popular worldwide, featuring a three-person crew and offering thrilling sailing experiences.

Demystifying the Etchells Sailboat: A Comprehensive Guide

Title: Demystifying the Etchells Sailboat: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction: Sailors seeking a thrilling and competitive experience on the water constantly seek out outstanding sailboat designs that promise unmatched performance and supreme handling. The Etchells sailboat stands among these coveted vessels. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the intricacies of the Etchells sailboat, unraveling its captivating features, racing prowess, and historical significance.

1. Unveiling the Origins: Embarking on any exploration requires understanding its roots. Developed in 1965 by Skip Etchells as a response to a design challenge for a strict one-design keelboat class, the Etchells sailboat soon gained acclaim for its remarkable capabilities and technical sophistication. Its creation was envisioned as a tool to level the playing field for sailors by ensuring fair competition based solely on skill rather than exorbitant investments.

2. Design Excellence and Construction: At first glance, the sleek lines and undeniable elegance of an Etchells sailboat captivate enthusiasts worldwide. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these vessels boast hulls constructed from glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), infused with carbon fiber reinforcements to enhance strength without compromising weight. This innovative construction method guarantees speed and durability essential for intense racing conditions.

3. Functional Ergonomics: Confidence inspires triumph on the water; thus, ergonomic optimization is crucial when it comes to competitive sailing. With a sturdy cockpit layout designed to accommodate three or four crew members effortlessly, the traditional tiller steering configuration ensures responsive helm control – allowing sailors to make astute tactical decisions during regattas swiftly.

4. Rigging Mastery: A finely-tuned rig is critical for unbeatable performance in any sailing endeavor. The fully battened mainsail precisely hoisted over an aluminum alloy mast provides exceptional shape retention and power under all weather conditions. Coupled with cutting-edge, high-performance sails – maintained at the forefront of sailmaking technology – Etchells sailboats attain efficient, aerodynamic profiles that maximize speed and acceleration.

5. Tactical Flexibility: The Etchells class offers immense tactical flexibility, showcasing its competitive prowess on diverse racecourses around the globe. With adjustable rig tension, cunningham, vang, and jib luff tension controls readily accessible to sailors, meticulous adjustments can be made mid-race to exploit wind conditions or capitalize on strategic opportunities. This adaptability empowers skippers and team members to masterfully maneuver their boats throughout regattas.

6. Exploiting Class Restrictions to Foster Fairness: Unlike some other sailing classes where larger budgets often determine success, Etchells racing firmly enforces strict one-design regulations. Control measures are implemented for crucial aspects like hull shape and weight distribution, ensuring that modifications outside permitted parameters are strictly forbidden. This commitment levels the playing field for all participants while emphasizing skill as the sole differentiating factor.

7. A Competitive Playground: Etchells racing serves as an exhilarating arena for passionate sailors searching for unparalleled competition. Olympic medalists, America’s Cup competitors, and renowned professionals join forces with enthusiastic amateurs in this class to relish intense battles amid breathtaking backdrops across oceans and lakes worldwide. From regional championships to prestigious international events like the World Championship – experiences gained in this captivating class persistently push boundaries and ignite the spirit of all who participate.

Conclusion: The Etchells sailboat remains a pinnacle of design excellence in the sailing world today due to its exceptional construction quality, ergonomic prowess, tactical versatility, and unwavering commitment to fair competition. Aspiring sailors seeking an unparalleled challenge on the water should look no further than this formidable vessel – a symbol of unity between engineering brilliance and awe-inspiring adventure awaits those who dare embark on this journey called Etchells sailing.

The Art of Sailing: Everything You Need to Know about Etchells Sailboats

When it comes to the art of sailing, there is a mesmerizing harmony between the wind, the sea, and the vessel. And among the various types of sailboats that grace our waters, few can match the elegance and sophistication of Etchells sailboats. Renowned for their sleek design and exceptional performance, these magnificent vessels hold a special place in the hearts of sailors worldwide.

First debuting in 1966, Etchells sailboats were originally designed by Skip Etchells with one thing in mind: creating a boat that would provide thrilling and competitive racing experiences. Fast forward over half a century, and these yachts have become an icon in the sailing community. But what exactly sets them apart? Let’s delve into everything you need to know about these remarkable vessels.

One of the defining features of Etchells sailboats is their impeccable construction. Crafted from high-quality materials such as fiberglass or carbon fiber, every aspect of their build showcases meticulous attention to detail. From their sturdy hulls to their precisely rigged mast and boom systems, Etchells boats are engineered to handle even the most challenging conditions with ease.

The sleek lines and slim profile of an Etchells sailboat not only make it visually appealing but also contribute significantly to its performance on the water. Their unique shape allows for minimal drag as they slice through both calm seas and rough waters alike. This means that whether you’re racing against fellow enthusiasts or simply enjoying a leisurely cruise, an Etchells boat will effortlessly glide through any maritime adventure.

Another standout quality of these magnificent yachts is their exceptional maneuverability. Equipped with a well-balanced keel design complemented by a powerful rudder system, Etchells boats offer impressive responsiveness to even subtle adjustments made by skilled helmsmen or helmswomen. This level of control ensures precise handling during races and makes navigating narrow passages or crowded marinas an exhilarating experience.

Speaking of racing, Etchells sailboats are synonymous with intense competition. As a one-design class, every aspect of an Etchells boat, from its size to its weight distribution, is strictly regulated. This emphasis on uniformity ensures that success on the racecourse relies solely on the skills and tactics employed by the sailors. The result is fierce, adrenaline-fueled races where victory is a testament to both strategy and seamanship.

However, it’s not just their breathtaking performance that makes Etchells sailboats so appealing; it’s also the vibrant community that surrounds them. Owning an Etchells boat opens the door to a world of passionate individuals who share a common love for sailing and embrace camaraderie both on and off the water. From local regattas to international events, being part of the Etchells family means joining a tight-knit group that nurtures personal growth, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable memories.

In conclusion, Etchells sailboats embody the very essence of the art of sailing through their captivating design, superior craftsmanship, unrivaled performance capabilities, and close-knit community spirit. Whether you’re an avid racer seeking unparalleled excitement or simply someone in awe of nautical beauty at its finest, these magnificent vessels will forever hold a special place in your heart as they continue to dominate oceans worldwide with their timeless elegance. So unleash your inner sailor and embark on an unforgettable journey aboard an Etchells sailboat – where grace meets speed and adventure awaits at every turn!

Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering the Etchells Sailboat: From Setup to Racing

Welcome to our detailed professional guide on mastering the Etchells sailboat! Whether you’re a seasoned sailor looking to brush up on your skills or a newbie eager to learn the ropes of this iconic boat, we’ve got you covered. From the initial setup to competing in thrilling races, this step-by-step guide will take you through every aspect of sailing an Etchells.

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Etchells Sailboat Before diving into the setup and racing techniques, it’s essential to get acquainted with this magnificent vessel. The Etchells sailboat is a sleek and high-performance keelboat renowned for its speed and agility. Its design focuses on simplicity while providing exhilarating racing experiences. Take some time to thoroughly inspect and understand its various components, including the rigging, sails, hull, keel, rudder, and controls.

Step 2: Prepare Yourself and Your Crew Sailing an Etchells requires teamwork and coordination among crew members. Ensure that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities before hitting the water. Safety should always come first—don’t forget personal floatation devices (PFDs) and other necessary safety equipment. Additionally, it’s crucial to dress appropriately for varying weather conditions while maintaining comfort during long hours on deck.

Step 3: Rigging Your Etchells Properly setting up your sailboat is vital for smooth sailing. Rigging begins by stepping the mast—an exciting moment where careful coordination is required to lift it into position without damaging anything or anyone. Once secured, accurately tensioning shrouds and stays ensures optimal mast alignment and stability throughout your voyage.

Next comes hoisting the mainsail—a powerful task that demands both strength and finesse. Ensure proper attachment points at goosenecks, slides or slugs while maintaining an even tension along luff. Attach boom vang and cunningham appropriately to control leech tension dynamically. Finally, secure the jib and spinnaker halyards, ready to set sails for maximum performance.

Step 4: Master Your Sail Trim Achieving optimal sail trim is an art in itself. Experiment with different combinations of mainsail, jib, and spinnaker controls to find the sweet spot between power and efficiency. Adjusting your cunningham, outhaul, vang tension, jib leads, and halyards can significantly influence boat speed and balance.

Stay attentive to wind conditions while continuously fine-tuning sail trim during your voyage. Be sure to familiarize yourself with telltales positioned near the sails—these invaluable indicators provide valuable insights into airflow turbulence and can guide your sail adjustments. Mastering sail trim will immensely contribute to maximizing speed and leave you confidently cutting through the water.

Step 5: Navigating Course Tactics Now that you have a solid foundation on boat setup and sail trim, it’s time to dive into racing tactics specific to Etchells sailboats. Sharpen your understanding of wind patterns on the racecourse—the natural elements that propel our vessel forward but can also dash our hopes if not properly understood.

Learn when to tack or gybe according to shifts in wind direction while being cautious of laylines—a calculated approach for reaching a mark efficiently without over-sailing or losing momentum. Anticipate wind gusts near shorelines or obstacles that might affect performance and gain a competitive edge by analyzing tide currents.

Step 6: Practice Makes Perfect Finally, as with any endeavor worth mastering, practice is key! Head out onto the water regularly and invest time perfecting each aspect discussed above. With every voyage comes new experiences—both challenging and rewarding—that further improve your sailing skills. Dedicate yourself to constant improvement while embracing this endless learning journey.

In conclusion, this step-by-step guide has equipped you with essential knowledge for mastering the Etchells sailboat from setup to racing. Remember, sailing is an art that requires a combination of technical skills and intuitive understanding of the elements. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the process, and be prepared for unforgettable adventures on your Etchells sailboat!

Frequently Asked Questions about the Etchells Sailboat: Your Ultimate Resource

Title: Frequently Asked Questions about the Etchells Sailboat: Your Ultimate Resource

Introduction: Welcome aboard! If you’re a sailing enthusiast and have been eyeing the remarkable Etchells Sailboat, you’ve come to the right place. Our blog is designed to be your ultimate resource for all your burning questions about this magnificent vessel. From its origins and specifications to racing tips and maintenance advice, we’ve got you covered! So hop on deck as we set sail into the vast ocean of knowledge about the Etchells Sailboat.

1. What is an Etchells Sailboat? The Etchells Sailboat is a one-design racing yacht that has carved its name in sailing history as an extremely competitive boat. Designed by Skip Etchells and launched in 1966, this sleek vessel has since become a popular choice for sailors worldwide due to its speed, maneuverability, and strategic elements.

2. What makes the Etchells Sailboat so special? Ahoy there! The secret behind the unwavering popularity of the Etchells Sailboat lies in its meticulous design, which focuses on creating a level playing field for all competitors. With strict class rules governing construction materials, measurements, and modifications, each boat is essentially identical – giving sailors an even chance based purely on skill and tactics instead of equipment advantage.

3. How does it perform in races? Avast ye landlubbers! The performance of an Etchells Sailboat in races is truly awe-inspiring. Its balanced hull shape combined with features like a high aspect ratio keel and powerful sail plan enable it to cut through waves gracefully while maintaining exceptional upwind performance. These attributes make this boat an exhilarating choice for both seasoned racers seeking adrenaline rushes and passionate starters aiming to test their skills on the racecourse.

4. Can beginners sail an Etchells Sailboat? Aye matey! While primarily known as a racing yacht, the Etchells Sailboat can also be enjoyed by sailing enthusiasts of all levels. Its stability and ease of handling make it accessible to beginners, offering a thrilling platform to develop their sailing skills. Additionally, joining local Etchells fleets and engaging in informal races serve as fantastic opportunities for novice sailors to learn from experienced competitors.

5. What maintenance is required for an Etchells Sailboat? Hoist the maintenance flag! Like any high-performance vessel, the Etchells Sailboat demands regular care to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Routine tasks such as cleaning the hull, inspecting rigging systems, and maintaining the sails are crucial. Moreover, periodic professional hull inspections contribute to identifying any structural issues and guaranteeing top-notch safety while out at sea.

6. How can I join an Etchells fleet or find racing opportunities? Ahoy there, sailor! To immerse yourself in the captivating world of Etchells racing, search for local Etchells fleets through established yacht clubs or online resources dedicated to this class. Memberships offer numerous benefits like access to training programs, organized regattas, friendly competitions between peers (with some satisfyingly competitive banter), and above all—a chance to be part of a tight-knit community that shares your passion for sailing.

Conclusion: Whether you’re new to the enchanting realm of sailing or an experienced skipper seeking fierce competition on deck, the Etchells Sailboat offers an exceptional experience like no other. As your go-to resource packed with detailed insights about this remarkable vessel – from its inception by Skip Etchells himself to practical maintenance tips – we hope our blog leaves you inspired and ready to set sail on unforgettable adventures with confidence aboard an Etchells Sailboat!

Navigating the Waters with an Etchells Sailboat: Tips and Tricks for Success

Embarking on a sailing adventure is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and if you are lucky enough to own an Etchells sailboat, your adventures are bound to be extraordinary. The sleek design and impeccable performance of this boat make it a force to be reckoned with on the water. However, mastering the art of sailing an Etchells sailboat requires more than just owning one. It demands skill, knowledge, and a sense of finesse that can only come from experience.

To help you navigate the waters with your Etchells sailboat like a pro, we’ve compiled some essential tips and tricks that will pave your way to success.

1. Understand Your Boat: Before setting sail, take the time to truly understand your Etchells sailboat. Familiarize yourself with its intricate features, such as the boom vang, cunningham, traveler controls, and various lines. Knowing how each component works in unison will give you an edge in adjusting sails efficiently during different wind conditions.

2. Optimize Your Sails: The key to maximizing speed and maneuverability lies in properly setting up your sails. Experiment with different tensions on the shrouds and forestay until you find that sweet spot where your sails are perfectly shaped for maximum power without sacrificing control.

3. Master Sail Trim: Sail trim is both an art and a science when it comes to sailing an Etchells sailboat effectively. Learn the nuances of adjusting mainsail luff tension based on wind strength, traveler position for ideal angle of attack, and jib lead adjustments for optimum shape and power distribution.

4. Be Mindful of Weight Distribution: Proper weight distribution plays a crucial role in keeping your Etchells sailboat stable and balanced under varying conditions. Shift crew weight subtly while maintaining communication onboard to maintain optimal hull form and counteract any chop, gusts, or waves encountered on the water.

5. Grasp Wind Patterns: Understanding wind patterns is an invaluable skill for any sailor, but it is especially important when sailing an Etchells sailboat. Study the weather forecast, observe wind shifts on the water, and fine-tune your sailing strategy by leveraging these patterns to gain a competitive advantage over your opponents.

6. Practice Starts and Mark Roundings: Starting a race successfully in an Etchells sailboat can give you a significant head start against competitors. Master the art of timing your starts to perfection, and be confident in executing smooth and efficient mark roundings during races. These skills are vital for maintaining your position within the fleet.

7. Communicate Effectively: Sailing with a crew necessitates clear and concise communication. Establish effective communication channels onboard to relay information swiftly—whether it’s about boat speed adjustments or upcoming course changes—to ensure everyone is always on the same page.

8. Continuously Learn and Improve: Sailing, like any other sport, requires continuous learning and improvement. Attend training sessions led by experienced sailors or enroll in racing clinics specifically tailored for Etchells sailboats to refine your skills further. Stay up-to-date with new techniques, strategies, tools, and advancements within the sailing community to remain ahead of the competition.

9. Embrace Challenges with Tenacity: Sailing an Etchells sailboat presents its fair share of challenges that demand perseverance and mental fortitude. The key is to embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to success. Maintain a positive mindset during difficult moments on the water; remember that setbacks often pave the way for future triumphs.

10. Enjoy Every Moment: Finally, amidst all the competitiveness and technicality involved in sailing an Etchells sailboat proficiently, never forget to relish every moment spent out on the water. Savor breathtaking sunsets, cherish the camaraderie with your crew, and let the sheer joy of sailing fill your soul. After all, it is the love for this incredible sport that brought you to sail an Etchells in the first place.

Navigating the waters with an Etchells sailboat calls for a delicate balance between knowledge, skill, and passion. By understanding your boat inside out, mastering sail trim techniques, embracing challenges with tenacity, and continuously improving yourself as a sailor, you can unlock the secrets to success in this exhilarating pursuit. So hoist those sails high, chase those winds eagerly, and set off on unforgettable adventures with your Etchells sailboat!

Unlocking the Potential of the Etchells Sailboat: Techniques, Strategies, and Secrets

Are you a sailing enthusiast looking to master the art of racing in an Etchells sailboat? Look no further! In this blog post, we will delve into every aspect of unlocking the true potential of this magnificent vessel. From techniques and strategies to closely guarded secrets, we have got you covered!

Techniques:

1. Rig Tuning: The first step towards maximizing your Etchells sailboat’s potential lies in understanding the intricacies of rig tuning. A properly tuned rig ensures optimal sail shape and performance. Learn how to adjust shrouds, forestay tension, and mast rake to achieve the perfect balance.

2. Sail Trimming: Fine-tuning sail trim is crucial for maximizing boat speed and efficiency. Master concepts such as cunningham tension, leech control, twist management, and mainsheet dynamics to extract every ounce of power from your sails.

3. Boat Handling: Efficient boat handling plays a pivotal role in gaining an edge over your competitors. Hone your skills in tacking, gybing, mark rounding techniques, and spinnaker handling to capitalize on strategic opportunities during races.

Strategies:

1. Start Line Excellence: Getting off the starting line flawlessly sets you up for success throughout the race. Dive deep into strategies like staying clear of congestion but not going too far away from other boats, identifying wind shifts before the start sequence begins, and executing precise maneuvers at critical moments.

2. Strategic Decision-Making: Moving up the ranks requires making smart strategic decisions on different legs of a racecourse. Discover techniques such as analyzing weather patterns both onshore and offshore or seeking local knowledge about currents and wind anomalies specific to each racing area.

3. Tactical Prowess: Racing is not just about moving fast; it’s also about outsmarting your opponents tactically. Foster your tactical skills by understanding the rules, maintaining situational awareness, and making calculated decisions to seize opportunities or defend your position.

1. Boat Preparation: The devil is in the details! Discover the secret rituals that top Etchells sailors perform to ensure their boat is in mint condition before each race. From hull maintenance and meticulous sail care to hidden modifications that enhance performance, we will reveal it all.

2. Mental Fortitude: Sailing at a competitive level demands not just physical finesse but also mental fortitude. Unearth the secrets of mental preparation, such as visualization techniques, managing stress under pressure, and maintaining focus throughout long races.

3. Team Dynamics: When racing an Etchells sailboat, teamwork is key. Explore the secrets behind building strong team chemistry, effective communication strategies on board, division of roles and responsibilities between crew members, and forging a winning mentality.

In conclusion, unlocking the potential of an Etchells sailboat requires a combination of technical mastery, strategic thinking, and hidden knowledge passed down by experienced sailors. By implementing these techniques, strategies, and uncovering closely guarded secrets in rig tuning, sail trimming, boat handling skills along with tactical decision-making prowess – you are sure to embark on an exhilarating journey towards achieving sailing excellence in an Etchells sailboat!

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Etchells class

The etchells class is a 30.5ft fractional sloop designed by e. w. etchells and built in fiberglass by sydney yachts/bashford int. since 1966..

The Etchells class is a light sailboat which is a high performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a racing boat.

Etchells class for sale elsewhere on the web:

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Etchells 30

Etchells 30 is a 29 ′ 11 ″ / 9.1 m monohull sailboat designed by E. W. (Skip) Etchells starting in 1970.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

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One-Design Class Profile: Etchells

October 24, 2014 by Sail1Design Editor 1 Comment

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June 16, 2021 at 05:50

what is the length of an Etchells mainsheet?

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For thirty years the Etchells class has enjoyed solid and steady growth with over fifty active fleets worldwide. Etchells sailors are enthusiastic and loyal supporters of their boat and class association. The Etchells is a big, fast, simple, stable, and sleek racing sloop that can be sailed competitively and in comfort by three or four average sailors. It can tack in 70 degrees and has a low wetted surface hull form that keeps moving in the slightest breeze. In 20+ knots it absolutely flies. The strict one-design principle of the class was established from the outset and is controlled by a strong, established and well-administered class association. Control of construction by the class association and the ISAF ensures quality and uniformity. It's trailerable, easy to maintain and light enough to dry sail.

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• Classics incl Quarter Tonners

International Etchells

David Heritage Racing Yachts is one of only three boatyards worldwide with a licence to build the International Etchells.  The International Etchells strict one-design principle was established from the outset and is controlled by a strong, well-administered Class Association.

The hull is constructed with premium high performance resins and glass cloth, which combined with accurate temperature controlled post curing techniques, ensures quality and a long, trouble free hull life.  Control of construction ensures quality and uniformity. The Etchells fast, stable and sleek design enables it to be sailed comfortably and competitively. 

Dimensions Overall length        9.29 m Waterline length   6.70 m Beam                       2.12 m Draft                        1.37 m Displacement        1.564 tonnes Mainsail area        20m2 Genoa area            8.5m2 Spinnaker area     48m2

Specification

Hull and Deck High quality controlled hand lay-up using the best resin and glass cloth from ISAF approved moulds in temperature controlled workshop and post cured to resin manufacturer’s specification to ensure maximum hull and deck stiffness.

Colours White/light grey

Specials Double action bilge pump fitted on mast beam, glass tiller and easy adjusted mast rake system fitted as standard.

Foils Fully optimised shape within class rules.

Fit out Using top quality ball bearing blocks and cleats.  Machine tapered main, jib and spinnaker sheets. TackTic micro compass, safety equipment to class rules.

Rig Mast, boom and spinnaker pole from Selden Masts, fully rigged with Dyform standing rigging and calibrated turnbuckles, 1 x 19 wire running rigging and Spectra spinnaker halyard adjustable mast step fitted as standard.  Other rig combinations are available.

David Heritage is a agent for Doyle Sails.  Please enquire for prices.  North Sails Website

We have a number of second hand Etchells sails available – please enquire for a list or click  here for our brokerage .

There are some excellent tuning and video guides with David Bedford on the Etchells Fleet UK site. Click  here  to view these Class Associations:   International Etchells Class Association UK Class Association

ETCHELLS CLASS Detailed Review

If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of ETCHELLS CLASS. Built by Sydney Yachts/Bashford Int. and designed by E. W. (Skip) Etchells, the boat was first built in 1966. It has a hull type of Fin with rudder on skeg and LOA is 9.3. Its sail area/displacement ratio 21.68. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by undefined, runs on undefined.

ETCHELLS CLASS has retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base. Read on to find out more about ETCHELLS CLASS and decide if it is a fit for your boating needs.

Boat Information

Boat specifications, sail boat calculation, rig and sail specs, contributions, who designed the etchells class.

ETCHELLS CLASS was designed by E. W. (Skip) Etchells.

Who builds ETCHELLS CLASS?

ETCHELLS CLASS is built by Sydney Yachts/Bashford Int..

When was ETCHELLS CLASS first built?

ETCHELLS CLASS was first built in 1966.

How long is ETCHELLS CLASS?

ETCHELLS CLASS is 6.71 m in length.

What is mast height on ETCHELLS CLASS?

ETCHELLS CLASS has a mast height of 9.91 m.

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Etchells Speed Guide

North Sails expert Noel "Nitro" Drennan answers your Etchells speed and boathandling questions.

Who sails in the Etchells Class?

Etchells one-design keelboats have been around since 1966 and provide one-design racing at its highest level from Australia to the U.S. to Europe. The class culture is focused on providing excellent racing against both pros and amateurs, including many of the same pros found aboard America’s Cup and grand prix boats. At the elite end, coaching is common; the amateurs prepare well enough to beat the pros, which means the pros also need to prepare well if they want to win. The Etchells has many long-term class sailors, a testament to the class and the quality of racing it provides.

What is the ideal Etchells crew size?

The crew weight limit is 285 kg. (629 lbs.), and you can either race with three or four crew members. This gives a wide variety of crew options. Ideally, your crew size is close to the maximum class weight and they are able to hike hard. That being said, many crews don’t hike hard all day long and still perform well through excellent steering and sail trim, which is the most important factor in class success.

What’s the biggest difference between sailing with three or four crew members?

While there’s more space on boats with only three, larger crew, there are more hands with four for maneuvers. Crew communications can be different, too. Many of the four-up crews have the luxury of a designated tactician, whereas three-up crews have to divide the sailing roles and tactical decisions between them.

Where can you buy an Etchells?

Fortunately, the Etchells has three world-class boat builders on three continents. Second-hand boats are also readily available (see class website), ranging from $3,500 US for a starter boat to $60,000-90,000 for a boat in tip-top race condition.

How do you transport an Etchells?

An Etchells is relatively easy to tow. Most SUVs can pull the all-up boat-and-trailer weight of 2,300 kg (5,000 lbs.). Our top tip is to have your mast lifters sorted out before the regatta to speed the pack-up. We use a single-post lifting pole, as the aluminium masts are quite light.

What kind of inventory does North recommend?

Etchells Tuning

What are the basics of tuning the etchells rig.

The North Sails tuning guide helps you set up your mast and rig properly. It covers rig set-up including spreaders, mast step, mast rake, and some key jib-trim pointers. It also describes the base shroud tension settings we recommend and the changes you need to make as wind speed rises and falls. A key step during the set-up is to measure the mast base relative to the mast collar using the method described in the tuning guide, marking the aft deck 12 feet (3655mm) from the aft part of the mast collar and measuring the mast step from that position at 12 feet 6 inches (3830mm). The boats are close to identical, but this exact mast-port-to-mast-step measurement relationship is key to each boat.

What are the “base” shroud settings for the Etchells?

📸 Bob Grieser

Upwind Trim Guidelines

Where does each person sit when sailing upwind.

Upwind, fore-and-aft crew positions are fairly stationary but nudging slightly forward in light air and slightly aft when windy and/or in waves.

What are the keys to Etchells sail trim?

When sailing upwind, we recommend focusing on helm balance as much as the actual sectional shape of the sails. In no boat more so than the Etchells do you trim the entire sail package together, rather than set up the mainsail and headsail individually. If the helm is balanced, the boat will respond. Note that even though it is smaller, the headsail usually provides the majority of the drive force, so it deserves your full attention.

What are the key controls for changing gears when wind and sea state change?

The mast lever has been a big improvement, as it definitely makes quick mast-bend changes easy. Now it’s possible to maintain a nice mainsail luff curve while adding forestay sag to suit your light-air headsail.

When do you change from a lighter-air jib to one for windier conditions?

Downwind Trim Guidelines

What are the keys to downwind speed in the etchells.

Downwind in the Etchells rewards both deep-angled tactical racing and strong surfing techniques. It is usually a pretty good workout downwind, pumping the spinnaker sheets and mainsheet, while moving body weight to help catch waves.

In lighter air, what are your top tips for downwind speed?

It’s very important to rake your mast forward in light air enough for a small inversion in the middle of the mast. Also, if there is any chop downwind, I like to keep my crew weight as low as possible, sitting or crouching on the cockpit floor.

Where does each crew member sit when sailing downwind?

Boathandling Guidelines

Any recommendations for starting in an etchells.

As in all competitive classes, starting is paramount—and probably even more important in the Etchells with its long, relatively heavy, metre-style hull. If you’re not up to best speed at the gun, you definitely fall off the front row. Typically, if you start well and can hold your lane for three minutes, you are going to be up there at the first upwind mark.

How do you tack the Etchells?

Good roll tacking and jibing in light air pays big dividends. A long slow tack gives you the chance to gain many meters to windward, as the boats will carry their way directly upwind.

What are some tips for good light or heavy air jibes?

When it’s windy, especially in big waves, I like to jibe the mainsail first, keeping the crew in the cockpit, and then jibe the spinnaker pole once the boat is stable. We often notice that the four-crew boats can gybe better than three-member crews. In light air, they can roll the boats harder, and when it’s windy, they split the crew roles more effectively.

How do you make a fast spinnaker set on the Etchells?

Here’s a good routine that will help the forward crew get the spinnaker up and drawing in good order: 1) get organized on the offset leg; 2) ease the ram lever; 3) drop the mainsail traveler; 4) pre-set the spinnaker sheet to its downwind mark; 5) bear away to a downwind angle at the offset mark, so the spinnaker trimmer does not have to sheet on hard once the sail is drawing.

What is the key to a good spinnaker takedown?

Spinnaker douse systems with hard boxes have made takedowns a much easier process. The boxes are usually lightweight fiberglass or sailcloth on a frame that is retracted by shockcord to the side of the hull. The takedown is a manual system, but it works surprisingly well for either a windward or leeward drop. If it’s really windy, a leeward drop is safer, ideally on a starboard tack approach to the leeward mark.

How easily does the Etchells broach?

The Etchells are difficult to broach but they do tend to roll to windward in windy downwind conditions. When it’s really windy, we recommend easing the pole forward slightly and putting the bow up a little so you can keep all the crew on the windward side. This definitely feels a lot more in control, especially when the bow begins burying into the wave in front.

What boathandling drills do you suggest?

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Etchells-inspired e33 – A Practical Sailor New Sailboat Review

The first-ever robbie doyle-jeremy wurmfeld collaboration balances performance sailing with basic comforts in this modern daysail boat..

Photos courtesy of e Sailing Yachts

The trophy daysailer market is rife with branding, image, and various forms of snob appeal. The e33, however, makes its pitch on practical grounds. Reports from the field highlight the performance/comfort/control combination that makes the e33 a fun raceboat. You don’t need a big crew, you can exercise your tactical talents to the max, and you give away nothing in boatspeed. Our time sailing the e33 convinced us that it is not only a legitimate performance sailboat, but that attaining that performance is sinfully easy. The e33 daysailers bonus points include a cockpit that takes up more than half the deck space and can hold five or six adults comfortably; cockpit-led control lines; carbon-fiber spars; and a hydraulic headstay control. Below, Spartan accommodations include berths for four, an enclosed head, and a built-in cooler. With the look of a classic and the innovative design of a modern daysailer, the e33 is e Sailing Yachts intelligent, inspired, comprehensive attempt to capture the fun of performance sailing.

                                                ****

With 50 lofts in 30 countries, you might think that Robbie Doyle, founder and president of Doyle Sailmakers, would have more than enough to keep him busy. Nonetheless, hes leapt into boatbuilding. Partnered with designer Jeremy Wurmfeld, Doyle created the e33. One of the many attractive, expensive daysailers to hit the market recently, this 33-footer has minimal accommodations, a 16-foot cockpit, and a host of solutions and innovations.

Doyle remembers how the e33 came about: “Dirk Kneulman (Etchells builder and former world champion), Jeremy, and I were fantasizing about a boat that would be as much fun to sail as the Etchells without the bumps and bruises, a performance boat that could be sailed to the max with no hiking, a boat that gives you no excuse not to sail.” A college All-American (Harvard 1971), Doyle apprenticed with Ted Hood early in his career, spent significant time pursuing The America s Cup, then founded Doyle Sailmakers in 1982. “Much of my course work was in naval architecture at MIT,” he explained. That background, he asserts, not only taught him the basics of boat design, but influenced his approach to sails. Utilizing the principles of elliptical loading demonstrated in the famous Australian wing keel in 1983, Doyle became the first to apply the principle of Elliptical Aerodynamic Loading to sail shapes. The e33 thus grew out of Doyles racing experience, his feel for what sailors want, his understanding of technology, and his capacity for innovation (Stack Pack, Quicksilver reefing, etc.).

Wurmfeld was trained in conventional architecture. After a short time on the job, however, he bolted his desk to become a charter skipper in the Caribbean. After that, he came ashore to enroll in naval architecture at Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology. That degree led to a six-year stint at Sparkman & Stephens before he went out on his own in 2004. Wurmfeld also has raced Etchells on Long Island Sound for years.

Kneulman (Ontario Yachts), who builds Sonars as well as Etchells, decided not to build e33s, despite his involvement in the boats development. That led Doyle and company to Waterlines Systems of Portsmouth, R.I. Small but diversified, Waterlines has specialized in “one-design optimization” and also builds J-22s, J-24s, Farr 40s, and Mumm 30s under license. To date, the company has built more than 20 of the new boats.

The Etchells, a 30-foot, three-man keel racer introduced as a candidate for the Olympics in the mid 1960s, made a stellar starting point for the new design. Originally known as the e22 (for its waterline), the Etchells failed to be chosen for the Games despite dominating the selection trials. There are now more than 50 fleets around the world with more than 1,300 boats actively racing. Rock stars such as Dennis Conner, Jud Smith, and Dave Curtis as well as Kneulman and Doyle attest to the quality of Etchells competition. Called “eternally contemporary” and praised for tacking in 70-degrees and slipping effortlessly through the water, the boat has spawned more than its share of fanatics.

With a ballast/displacement ratio of 63 percent, Etchells are very stiff, Wurmfeld says. The e33s ballast/displacement number is 43 percent, so it, too, stands up well in a breeze. The boats narrow beam (8 feet, 6 inches) minimizes the effect of weight on the rail; the “no hiking” part of its personality is for real.

“We gave the e33 a proper bulb at the end of a 5-foot, 9-inch keel where its weight pays off,” Wurmfeld says.

Like many of the others vying for the “perfect daysailer” mantle, Doyles boat is better for being bigger. Top speed (projected at better than 10 knots) is unlocked by a generous, 27-foot waterline length. Large overhangs forward and aft help assure that its dry underway.

The biggest benefit of its bigness, though, is its huge cockpit. Deep enough to be supremely secure, it seems to go on forever. From transom to companionway, it offers uncompromised lounging, sailing, and elbow room.

The slender hull has V-sections forward of the keel for weatherliness and wave handling. Relatively slack bilges and an easy run of U-shaped sections aft strike a balance between minimizing parasitic drag and providing lift at high speed. Wurmfeld says the foils also reflect the tension between racing efficiency (deep/high-lift) and daysailing practicality (moderate draft/tracking).

One-design competition is always a possibility, but Performance Handicap Racing Fleet (PHRF) is the boats most-likely arena. It rates 90 with a cruising chute in New England and 103 without.

Reports from the field highlight the performance/comfort/control combination that makes the e33 fun to race. You don’t need a big crew, you can exercise your tactical talents to the max, and you give away nothing in boatspeed.

“Starting a new company, we had to beware being all things to all people,” Wurmfeld says. “But the look of the boat was critical. The relationships of masses, shapes, and angles needs to be pleasing to the eye. The counter and transom were my treatment, and Robbie had the last word on the bow angle.”

Like an Etchells, the e33 can be dry-sailed and trailered. At 5,800 pounds, its targeted for the 3-ton lifts at many yacht clubs. “You need a 300-horsepower tow vehicle,” Doyle says. “Strong points for a lifting bridle are built into the boat.”

We asked Doyle if there was a connection between the elliptical aerodynamic loading that he pioneered in the 1980s and the high-roach sailplan of the e33. “When I was building sails for Courageous back in 1977, we tried a high-roach main as an experiment. It became the only main we used that whole summer to win the Cup.”

The textbooks point out that induced drag is minimized by an elliptical (high roach) planform. That makes the ellipse or “Spitfire wing” shape the most efficient outline for a lifting surface, be it wing, keel, or sail. Certainly, sailboards and multihulls have gone heavily in the “fat-head” direction. With the advent of carbon-fiber spars (which Doyle labels “hard not to tune”), masts can now be made stiff enough to stand without a backstay. That, plus refinements in full-length batten technology let monohulls like the e33 benefit from elliptical mainsails and the efficiencies they bring.

“We resisted putting battens in our jib, but a (roller-reefable) triangle didnt give enough punch in light air,” Doyle says. Vertical battens (which make for a better-setting, more-versatile sail) let us add roach for more power.”

The e33s recessed furler with control line led to the helm affords a jib that is elegant and ergonomic as well as efficient.

“Because our sail area is more efficient, we need less of it,” says Doyle. “You can handle our jib without a winch. And our center of pressure is lower. That promotes stability. The J-100, for instance, has a mast thats 7 feet taller than ours.”

Crack off the main, and a lot of the boats sail area goes away. The sheet and traveler let you open (or close) the leech optimally via the top batten. Sails are cut full with easy-to-manage systems like the cunningham to flatten them in a breeze. If you are racing, the Sailtec hydraulic headstay assembly forms a single-point rig adjustment that you can massage puff-by-puff. If you are daysailing, you can set it and forget it.

]Not only does the deck take up half the boat, it is unbroken. More comfortable and less silly than the ubiquitous pushpit seats that adorn many of todays auxiliaries, the afterdeck affords room to read, snooze, or veg in security and comfort. If sunbathing were politically correct, you could do it there, too, all without interfering with the steering or working of the boat.

Just forward of the rudder post is a full-width traveler bar. Sited aft where toe-stubbing is no concern, its control lines are nonetheless convenient to the helm. A gracefully laminated gooseneck tiller sweeps from under the traveler forward to the helmsman.

In the center of the cockpit is a raised pod/footrest that houses mainsheet blocks and can accept a table. If you choose to have the available centerline winch, it goes there beneath the head of the tiller. The sturdy molding houses control lines (halyard, jib furler, spinnaker tackline, and self-tacking jibsheet, if you choose that option) and is low enough to be unobtrusive yet substantial enough for foot bracing. Another nice solution.

It doesn’t surprise us that a boat built by a sailmaker should emphasize sailhandling. The gross and fine-tune systems for the main are not afterthoughts. The big blocks have a home in the pod, and the little ones have been incorporated into the main (carbon-fiber) boom. Two-part control for the jib might have been cumbersome, but fairing the blocks for the fine-tuner into a cabintop channel makes the assembly look clean and work well.

Accommodations

Below, youll find “the bare necessities.” Bunks for a cozy family of four, an enclosed head, and cooler complete the list. No galley, no running water, no weight, no worries.

Doyle and his wife, Janet, took the boat on the Eastern Yacht Club cruise. In four nights and five days aboard, she enjoyed “a dry and comfortable cabin with spacious bunks … zero time over a hot stove … and having 18 aboard for cocktails in the cockpit.” Simplified, camping-out cruising has its charms. The e33 can easily provide them.

Performance

The boat has an auxiliary (a 14-horsepower Yanmar diesel with folding prop on a sail drive), but we doubt it will see much use. Open, narrow, light, and maneuverable, the e33 simplifies boathandling (under both sail and power) around docks, moorings, and marinas-an aspect of “performance” that is easily overlooked.

A 2:1 halyard and ball-bearing Ronstan cars for the battens took the strain out of raising the main. With the sail fully hoisted, the cunningham became our prime means of draft control.

The jibs conventional double-sheeting works so well that we wonder why anyone would choose the optional self-tacker. The standard 105-percent jib looks to us more hassle-free and foolproof than the self-tending alternative.

Falling off and running before a moderate souwester out of Marblehead, Mass., we noted how the jib settled into wing-and-wing untended and how comforting it was to have a clear field of vision over the bow. We sat at the rail, the seat, switched sides … there didnt seem to be a bad spot to steer from. There was nothing “corky” about the way it cut the water. There was little wobble as we surged along. Deep, narrow boats have a feel of their own.

Outside the harbor, we lost some of the breeze and picked up a bit of chop as we rounded onto the wind. This is where we expected her to be at her worst: light wind and waves. Did she have the raw sail power to punch through the slop?

With no trial horse in sight and drawing only on seat-of-the-pants approximation, we loosened the headstay and bagged the main a bit. Our acceleration improved as did our speedo numbers. While the e33 lacks the same “power reserve” you might expect from a boat with a taller rig and an overlapping headsail, its ultra-efficient rig and easily driven hull make it more competitive than you might think. An optional Code-O turbocharges the boat in light air.

On the way back to the mooring, the local “harbor hurricane” in the entrance channel bumped the breeze up into the teens. As advertised, an ease of the main and pump on the headstay had us driving through the puffs at better than 8 knots, no hiking necessary. Flat water showed her close-windedness off to advantage; tacking in less than 80 degrees was impressive.

Wending through the crowded mooring field, the e33 was balanced enough to let us bear away without spilling the main, responsive enough to carve tight turns. Several times, we approached from dead downwind and luffed around a moored boat or ball. The narrow hull carries the e33s weight for boatlengths at a time, the jib feathers harmlessly amidships. More than once, we drove to leeward around an obstacle despite a building puff … minimal helm, positive result!

Some critics called her “too much boat” for the average sailor. Others said that only top-notch pros like Doyle could get the most out of her. However, our time on the water convinced us that she is not only a legitimate “performance boat,” but that attaining that performance is sinfully easy.

Conclusions

On the printed page, the profile/sailplan of the e33 emphasizes the contrast between its modern-looking rig and its heritage hull. On the water, that mismatch is minimized to the point that we didnt find it to be a problem.

Though it doesn’t approach the “million dollar” pricetag of some of todays new daysailers, the e33 (with a base price of better than $150,000) is not cheap. But when it comes to quality items like the carbon mast and boom, you get what you pay for.

Indeed, the “trophy daysailer” market is rife with branding, image, and various forms of snob appeal. The e33, on the other hand, makes its pitch on practical grounds. As the marketing literature emphasizes, it is an intelligent, inspired, comprehensive attempt to capture the fun of performance sailing. Thanks to the talents and experience of Doyle and company, it succeeds admirably in doing just that.

• e33 Construction Details

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Review of Etchells 22

Basic specs..

The Etchells 22 is equipped with a finn keel. A boat with a fin keel is more manoeuvrable but has less directional stability than a similar boat with a long keel.

The keel is made of lead. Compared with iron, lead has the advantage of being 44% heavier, which allows a smaller keel and hence less water resistance and higher speed.

The boat can enter even shallow marinas as the draft is just about 1.37 - 1.47 meter (4.49 - 4.79 ft) dependent on the load. See immersion rate below.

Sailing characteristics

This section covers widely used rules of thumb to describe the sailing characteristics. Please note that even though the calculations are correct, the interpretation of the results might not be valid for extreme boats.

What is Capsize Screening Formula (CSF)?

The capsize screening value for Etchells 22 is 1.87, indicating that this boat could - if evaluated by this formula alone - be accepted to participate in ocean races.

What is Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed?

The theoretical maximal speed of a displacement boat of this length is 6.3 knots. The term "Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed" is widely used even though a boat can sail faster. The term shall be interpreted as above the theoretical speed a great additional power is necessary for a small gain in speed.

The immersion rate is defined as the weight required to sink the boat a certain level. The immersion rate for Etchells 22 is about 95 kg/cm, alternatively 536 lbs/inch. Meaning: if you load 95 kg cargo on the boat then it will sink 1 cm. Alternatively, if you load 536 lbs cargo on the boat it will sink 1 inch.

Sailing statistics

This section is statistical comparison with similar boats of the same category. The basis of the following statistical computations is our unique database with more than 26,000 different boat types and 350,000 data points.

What is Motion Comfort Ratio (MCR)?

What is L/B (Length Beam Ratio)?

What is a Ballast Ratio?

What is Displacement Length Ratio?

Maintenance

When buying anti-fouling bottom paint, it's nice to know how much to buy. The surface of the wet bottom is about 18m 2 (193 ft 2 ). Based on this, your favourite maritime shop can tell you the quantity you need.

Are your sails worn out? You might find your next sail here: Sails for Sale

If you need to renew parts of your running rig and is not quite sure of the dimensions, you may find the estimates computed below useful.

This section shown boat owner's changes, improvements, etc. Here you might find inspiration for your boat.

Do you have changes/improvements you would like to share? Upload a photo and describe what to look for.

We are always looking for new photos. If you can contribute with photos for Etchells 22 it would be a great help.

If you have any comments to the review, improvement suggestions, or the like, feel free to contact us . Criticism helps us to improve.

HULL CERTIFICATES

You must have a Hull/Measurement Certificate in your name to comply with IECA Class Rules. Australian Sailing and the Royal Yachting Association issue certificates in AUS and GBR. All other certificates are issued by the IECA office and you can apply for one at this link .

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