We invite leading sailors and experts from the marine industry to select the most remarkable and innovative boats of our era. Helena Darvelid puts forth the C-Class Catamaran.
“Having participated in the construction and racing of three C-Class projects, I must nominate the 25ft C-Class catamaran.” Referred to as the ‘Little Americas Cup’, the International Catamaran Challenge Trophy was a match racing series initiated in 1961, leading to the creation of the revolutionary C-Class catamaran, featuring rigid wing sails that could race at double the wind speed.
“The straightforwardness of the rules often inspired designers more than sailors, resulting in boats that reflected incredible DIY, small-shed creativity and efficiency. They were extremely rare, and to acquire one, you needed to design and build it yourself. These stunning creations demonstrated to the sailing community the potential of wing sails.
“Ultimately, the class fell prey to its own acclaim, as the America’s Cup took over and absorbed all technological ‘coolness’ into the major leagues. The realms of America’s Cup, SailGP, and record-speed sailing greatly owe their respect to the C-Class.”
Photo: DPPI Media/Alamy
C-Class Catamaran Specifications
Top speed: 30-34 knots
Length Overall: 7.62m/25ft
Introduced: since 1961
Sleeping Capacity: 0
Cost: up to €2 million
Adrenaline level: 90%
Helena Darvelid
Helena Darvelid has sailed some of the most amazing multihulls in the world, from C-Class to MOD70s. She has competed alongside Steve Fossett, Brian Thompson, and Tracy Edwards, securing 12 world speed sailing records, including the 24-hour record as co-skipper of Maiden II in 2002.
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