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Sailboat Specifications

Iota

Cat (Marconi) · Dbrd. Dinghy

Designed by Bruce Kirby · Built by Stur-Dee Boat Co. (Usa) · First built 1986

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LOA 12.25 ft  ·  Beam 5.00 ft  ·  Displacement 220.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 71.00 ft²  ·  Cat (Marconi)  ·  Dbrd. Dinghy
About the Iota Sailboat

Designed by renowned naval architect Bruce Kirby in 1986, this compact daggerboard dinghy represents a thoughtful approach to small boat sailing. With only eight hulls ever built by Stur-Dee Boat Co., the Iota remains an exceptionally rare find in today's market. At just over 12 feet in length, this fiberglass cat-rigged dinghy delivers impressive performance despite its modest dimensions. The relatively narrow beam and low displacement create a responsive boat that's well-suited for experienced dinghy sailors seeking spirited performance on protected waters. Kirby's design philosophy shines through in the boat's efficient sail plan, which generates excellent power while remaining manageable for single-handed sailing. The daggerboard configuration provides excellent upwind performance and allows for easy launching from beaches or shallow ramps. With a hull speed approaching 5 knots, the Iota can surprise sailors accustomed to heavier dinghies. The moderate comfort ratio suggests this boat prioritizes performance over stability, making it ideal for coastal day sailing and small boat racing rather than leisurely family outings. Given Bruce Kirby's reputation as designer of the iconic Laser, the Iota likely incorporates similar attention to sailing dynamics and responsiveness that made his other designs legendary.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 12.25 ft / 3.73 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 11.88 ft / 3.62 m
Beam 5.00 ft / 1.52 m
Max Draft 2.58 ft / 0.79 m
Min Draft 0.42 ft / 0.13 m
Displacement 220.00 lb / 100 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 71.00 ft² / 6.60 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Dbrd. Dinghy
Rigging Type Cat (Marconi)
Construction FG
Designer Bruce Kirby
Builder Stur-dee Boat Co. (USA)
First Built 1986
Number Built 8
Related Sailboats Hobie Bravo · Butterfly · Byte · Howmar 12 · Comet Duo
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Iota has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 31.2. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Iota's comfort ratio?

The Iota has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 3.32. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Iota safe for offshore sailing?

The Iota has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 3.31. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Iota?

The theoretical hull speed of the Iota is 4.62 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Iota weigh?

The Iota has a displacement of 220.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 12.25 ft.

Who designed the Iota?

The Iota was designed by Bruce Kirby, first built in 1986.