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Sailboat Specifications

Lymington L Class

Fractional Sloop · Long Keel W/Trans. Hung Rudder

Designed by Jack Laurent Giles · Built by Elkin & Sons · First built 1932

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LOA 23.25 ft  ·  Beam 6.83 ft  ·  Displacement 5,960.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 280.00 ft²  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Long Keel W/Trans. Hung Rudder
About the Lymington L Class Sailboat

Developed as a one-design racing class, this distinctive sailboat emerged from Britain's competitive dinghy sailing scene with a focus on close, tactical racing. The L Class represents the type of strict one-design thinking that prioritized sailor skill over equipment advantages, creating a level playing field where boat handling and racing tactics determine success. Built for competitive fleet racing in protected waters, the L Class features traditional construction methods and proportions that reflect mid-20th century design philosophy. The boat's hull shape and sail plan were optimized for consistency rather than raw speed, ensuring that multiple boats could race together with minimal performance differences between hulls. While primarily designed for racing, the L Class also serves well for recreational sailing in harbors, bays, and coastal areas with moderate conditions. The boat's responsive handling characteristics make it an excellent platform for developing sailing skills, particularly for those interested in understanding racing fundamentals and boat-to-boat tactics. The class maintains a dedicated following among sailors who appreciate traditional design values and competitive sailing in boats where crew work and tactical decisions matter more than equipment modifications. This sailing dinghy continues to attract both serious racers and recreational sailors seeking an authentic, skill-focused sailing experience.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 23.25 ft / 7.09 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 19.50 ft / 5.94 m
Beam 6.83 ft / 2.08 m
Max Draft 3.67 ft / 1.12 m
Displacement 5,960.00 lb / 2,703 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 280.00 ft² / 26.01 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long keel w/trans. hung rudder
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction Wood
Designer Jack Laurent Giles
Builder Elkin & Sons
First Built 1932
Last Built 1954
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lymington L Class's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Lymington L Class has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 13.67. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Lymington L Class's comfort ratio?

The Lymington L Class has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 34.53. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Lymington L Class safe for offshore sailing?

The Lymington L Class has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.51. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Lymington L Class?

The theoretical hull speed of the Lymington L Class is 5.92 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Lymington L Class weigh?

The Lymington L Class has a displacement of 5,960.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 23.25 ft.

Who designed the Lymington L Class?

The Lymington L Class was designed by Jack Laurent Giles, first built in 1932.