Home/ Boats/ Various/ Classic Moth
Sailboat Specifications

Classic Moth

Cat (Marconi)

Designed by Joel Van Sant · Built by Various · First built 1929

+ Add to Compare
LOA 11.00 ft  ·  Beam 5.00 ft  ·  Displacement 75.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 72.00 ft²  ·  Cat (Marconi)
About the Classic Moth Sailboat

Originally developed as a single-handed training dinghy, the Classic Moth represents one of sailing's most enduring small boat designs. This diminutive craft has earned its place in sailing history as an accessible entry point for aspiring sailors while simultaneously serving as a competitive racing platform for those seeking to hone their skills. Built for simplicity and responsiveness, the Classic Moth features a straightforward rigging system that makes it an ideal choice for sailing instruction and solo recreational sailing. Its lightweight construction allows for easy car-topping and beach launching, making it particularly well-suited for sailing clubs, youth programs, and sailors with limited storage or launching facilities. The boat's design emphasizes pure sailing fundamentals over creature comforts, with its open cockpit and minimalist layout demanding active engagement from the helmsman. This characteristic has made it a favorite among sailing purists who appreciate the direct connection between sailor and boat. Racing remains central to the Moth's identity, with active one-design fleets maintaining the boat's competitive spirit across numerous sailing venues. The class attracts sailors who value tactical racing in an affordable, maintenance-friendly package that rewards skill over equipment advantages.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 11.00 ft / 3.35 m
Beam 5.00 ft / 1.52 m
Displacement 75.00 lb / 34 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 72.00 ft² / 6.69 m²
Design & Construction
Rigging Type Cat (Marconi)
Construction Various materials
Designer Joel Van Sant
Builder Various
First Built 1929
Owner Reviews

No owner reviews yet — be the first to share your experience with this boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Classic Moth's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Classic Moth has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 64.78. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

Is the Classic Moth safe for offshore sailing?

The Classic Moth has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 4.74. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

How much does a Classic Moth weigh?

The Classic Moth has a displacement of 75.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 11.00 ft.

Who designed the Classic Moth?

The Classic Moth was designed by Joel Van Sant, first built in 1929.