International Etchells
5 Seasons
The class was known originally as E22 until the name was changed to Etchells in 1990. Over the years, the Etchells has become increasingly popular and is now raced by members of more than fifty fleets around the world.
The Etchells is a fast, stable racing sloop that can be raced competitively and safely by three or four sailors. She can tack in 70 degrees and is extremely sensitive to subtle adjustments in tuning and trim. She has a sleek hull with relatively little wetted surface area, which allows her to move well in the lightest breeze. In heavier winds, she absolutely flies. Her sail plan includes a main, jib, and spinnaker.
The class’s strict one-design principles were established in the late 1960s and are controlled today by a strong, well-managed class association. The class and the International Sailing Federation maintain tight control of the construction of these yachts, ensuring the high quality and uniformity of each Etchells built. The one-design principles help the Etchells hold her resale value exceptionally well.
The Etchells is a fiberglass boat with aluminum spars; it has no electrical systems or auxiliary power. It is trailerable and light enough to drysail. The materials and techniques used in her construction make her easy to maintain and repair.
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2018 Festival of Sails - Etchells Racing
Episode 1
It's not just the Passage Race that is being raced at the Festival of Sails today - take a look at the Etchells Australia just offshore from Royal Geelong Yacht Club.
Video Producer: VR Sport Media
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01:37Episode 2
2018 Festival of Sails - Etchells 'Tim'
Episode 2
We managed to grab 'Etchells Tim' who is only 14 and usually seen on his International Cadet Class of Australia - watch out for him popping up literally in the video on the final day of the 175th Festival of Sails.
Video Producer: VR Sport Media
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Etchells World Championship 2018 - Day One
Episode 3
Day One of the 2018 Etchells World Championships in Brisbane - over 90 boats on the Australian Queensland coast.
Video Producer: Surf Sail Kite