For fifty years the Etchells class has enjoyed stability with over fifty active fleets worldwide – why, when many classes have risen and faded ?
Loyalty
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.
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.
Strong International Governance
As an international class, it has been well managed with a strong International Governance Committee that listens to both the strongest and the smallest fleets. Mould control and technical consistency have both been rigorous and 25-year-old boats can still win significant events – a clear symbol of a strong strict one-design principle.
As an international class, it has been well managed with a strong International Governance Committee that listens to both the strongest and the smallest fleets. Mould control and technical consistency have both been rigorous and 25-year-old boats can still win significant events – a clear symbol of a strong strict one-design principle.
The International Etchells Class Association and all the class rules can be found by clicking here.
UK Class
The UK Class is part of the international class, and has the mandate from the International Class (under World Sailing Governance) to run National and European championships and it supports the regional fleets in the Clyde and elsewhere in the UK & Europe.
The UK Class is part of the international class, and has the mandate from the International Class (under World Sailing Governance) to run National and European championships and it supports the regional fleets in the Clyde and elsewhere in the UK & Europe.
Cowes Committee
In the AGM November 2025, the members voted in the new UK committee and a UK constitution linked properly for the UK as a subsidiary of the international class
In the AGM November 2025, the members voted in the new UK committee and a UK constitution linked properly for the UK as a subsidiary of the international class