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Sailboat Specifications

Interlake

Fractional Sloop · Centerboard Dinghy

Designed by Francis Sweisguth · Built by Customflex (Usa) · First built 1933

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LOA 18.00 ft  ·  Beam 6.25 ft  ·  Displacement 650.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 175.00 ft²  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Centerboard Dinghy
About the Interlake Sailboat

Dating back to 1933, Francis Sweisguth's Interlake design has established itself as one of America's most enduring small boat racing classes. This 18-foot centerboard dinghy combines classic proportions with competitive performance, making it equally suited for club racing and recreational sailing in protected waters. The Interlake's fractional sloop rig and generous 175 square feet of sail area deliver spirited performance while remaining manageable for sailors of varying experience levels. Its moderate beam of 6.25 feet provides good stability without sacrificing speed, while the centerboard configuration allows for flexible sailing in shallow venues and easy launching from beaches or ramps. Originally built in wood and later adapted to fiberglass construction by Customflex, the design has maintained its competitive edge across nine decades of evolution. The boat's displacement of 650 pounds keeps it light enough for car-topping while providing sufficient stability for confident sailing. With a capsize screening formula of 2.89, the Interlake remains well within safe parameters for its intended use in lakes, bays, and protected coastal areas. Active racing fleets across North America continue to demonstrate the design's lasting appeal, making used examples relatively easy to find and competitively campaign.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 18.00 ft / 5.49 m
Beam 6.25 ft / 1.91 m
Max Draft 4.58 ft / 1.40 m
Min Draft 0.67 ft / 0.20 m
Displacement 650.00 lb / 295 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 175.00 ft² / 16.26 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Centerboard Dinghy
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG or Wood
Designer Francis Sweisguth
Builder Customflex (USA)
First Built 1933
Associations Interlake Sailing Class Association
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Interlake's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Interlake has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 37.37. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Interlake's comfort ratio?

The Interlake has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 5.4. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Interlake safe for offshore sailing?

The Interlake has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.89. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Interlake?

The theoretical hull speed of the Interlake is 5.24 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Interlake weigh?

The Interlake has a displacement of 650.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 18.00 ft.

Who designed the Interlake?

The Interlake was designed by Francis Sweisguth, first built in 1933.