There are 56,000 boats which have been built worldwide. This popular dinghy is sailed at school, club, open, national and international levels. There are many second hand boats available, active clubs and excellent tuition for all levels.
Built in buoyancy tanks make the boat very safe even when inverted. The 420 is the youth development boat in 43 countries around the world. It is the equipment for the two-person dinghy boys and two-person dinghy girls events at the Youth Sailing World Championships , the pinnacle youth event in the world.
Despite the emergence of newer commercial driven classes and asymmetrics, the 420 is still the world's top youth training boat. A brand new 420 ready to sail costs approximately EUR5500 - 6000, making the boat an extremely affordable choice.
About 350 boats are built per year, with 1850 boats built over the past 5 years.
In 2020, the International 420 Class celebrated its 60th Anniversary.
The International 420 Class is recognised by World Sailing as an " World Sailing Learn to Sail Training Programme Recommended Boat ", which endorses its use by Member National Authorities for developing and teaching sailing in their nation. This status also endorses that the 420 is proven to have suitable availability to MNA's and also offers a supply structure to reduce costs to the MNA's and Learn to Sail Programme training centres.
All boats recognised by World Sailing have been independently assessed by World Sailing to be ideal for developing and/or teaching sailing within the World Sailing Learn to Sail programme; they also undergo safety assessments such as European CE marking or coastguard assessment.
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A Mackay 420 has been behind nearly every world champion success since we commenced building 420’s in 2012.
Hull Length 4.2 m
Beam Length 1.63 m
Mainsail Area 7.4 m2
Headsail Area 2.8 m2
Spinnaker Area 9.0 m2
Boat Weight 100 kg
Hull Weight 80 kg
Hull Material GRP
No. of Crew 2
Opt Crew Weight 110 - 145 kg
Number of Trapeze Single
Designer Christian Maury
420 Class Association website: http://www.420sailing.org/
The 420 is one of the best options to learn the ropes about two-person dinghy sailing. Crews learn how to tune a boat, set up control systems, trim sail combinations (jib, main and spinnaker together), work on downwind and upwind techniques, and importantly, learn how to work with another crew.
The Class has attracted many top sailors to it, providing a learning platform that has led them into successful Olympic campaigns and big boat careers.
The 420’s design and class rules gave us the opportunity to build a boat similar to how the Mackay 470 is built in terms of the mould structure and look of the boat.
The Mackay 420 hull shape was developed by naval architect Kevin Trotter. Kevin has designed very fast dinghies here in New Zealand over the years. Using the latest design and analysis software, along with the luxury of time we were able to evaluate the expected performance along with the look of the boat.
Looking at where crews tended to sit in the boat in different conditions affected where we pushed the displacement curve of the boat. Additionally, Kevin's skiff designs gave valuable insight into the way the rocker curve and buttocks lines should run through the middle and aft sections.
The hull is made from a polyester e-glass fibre, using foam core ribs and core mat panels.
The Mackay 420 deck to hull joint system is the same as our 470s, which allows for the same exceptionally strong but light gunwale arrangement. This extends around the bow and across the transom.
We have also borrowed some other features off the 470. As an example, the way the mast partner is fitted to the deck after the boat is built allows the bulkhead in front of the mast to be more vertical and closer to the mast. This is better for rig tension and weight distribution. It also improves the look of the boat giving it a longer foredeck.
The rudder stock is in cast aluminum which provides excellent support. The foils are built in the same way as our 470 foils by resin infusion.
Most importantly the time and energy we put into the rudder and centreboard design along with the finishing of the moulds has resulted in some very special foils.
How to do a gelcoat repair.
Small gel coat repairs are relatively easy to do.
What is Gelcoat made up of?
Gelcoat is a polyester product that is cured by using a catalyst called MEKP. (Methyl Ethyl Ketone Peroxide)
MEKP is a dangerous substance and should be treated as such when using, being very careful not to get any on your skin or in your eyes.
How can I get the catalyst - MERK?
We cannot ship MEKP so you will always need to buy it separately from your local marine store or fibreglass manufacturer.
How much MERK do I need?
The amount of Catalyst varies depending on the conditions you are using it in, but around 2%-3% will always work.
It is best to use a small syringe or dropper to get the required catalyst rate.
If you have mixed 100gm of gelcoat, then you are aiming for 2ml of catalyst.
What are the Gelcoat colours?
Gelcoats colours are not always a 100% perfect match.
Colour will vary depending on the depth of the repair and the batch.
470, 420, 29er & Starling are built from polyester resin.
For Polyester boats
470 White- LS30 White PA 337
470 Grey- Grey RAL 7035
Blue = is supplier by Nuplex who have their own code which is not an international code
Does Mackay Boats supply gelcoat?
We supply a small tin (of each relevant colour) with each new boat.
Order additional gelcoat from our store, although it cannot be shipped by courier.
How do I do gelcoat repairs?
Doing gelcoat repairs is an art that improves with experience.
Making sure the surface is prepared well and keyed up is critical.
Overfill and then sanding back is a slow and time-consuming process.
Be very careful not to scratch the boat around the repair.
You shouldn’t sand the original surface around the repair with any paper coarser than 600grit.
Mask around the repair to protect the boat.
You can initially use a file or 150g to take the high parts off the filling, but don't use the coarse paper for too long or you will end up with scratches in the finished repair.
Once you have it fair with 600g, you can work your way through the sandpaper grades until you finish with 1500grit before cutting and polishing.
We would typically use 600g, then 800g or 1000g, then 1200g, then finally 1500g.
Deck colour and non-skid on the side-decks. You can find these options if you try the boat configurator on our website.
White, Light Grey, Light Blue, Light Green, and Cream. On the 420, Grey is the most popular, with Blue and White equal second most popular.
Please watch this short video that demonstrates fitting a mylar gasket to the 420 hull -
>> Fitting a mylar gasket .
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Sailing has been an adventurous and captivating water activity enjoyed by enthusiasts around the world for centuries. Among the various sailing boats, the 420 sailboat stands out as a popular choice for dinghy sailing. In this article, we will delve into the exciting world of 420 sailboats, understand what makes them unique, explore different sailing dinghy types, and discover the thrill of dinghy cruising. So, hoist the sails and let's embark on this thrilling journey!
1.1 the origins of the 420 sailboat.
The 420 sailboat originated in France in the late 1950s as a two-person dinghy designed for competitive racing. Its design was based on the popularity of the larger 470 sailboat and was intended to create a more accessible racing boat for young sailors.
The 420 sailboat typically measures around 4.2 meters (13 feet 9 inches) in length, featuring a single trapeze, a mainsail, and a jib. The boat's hull is often made of fiberglass, ensuring durability and performance on the water.
Over the years, the 420 sailboat has garnered a strong global following, becoming one of the most popular dinghies for youth and amateur sailors. The boat's versatility allows both beginners and experienced sailors to enjoy thrilling competitions and hone their skills.
2.1 understanding dinghy sailing.
Dinghy sailing involves sailing small boats, often single-handedly or with a crew of one or two. It offers a more intimate connection with the water, providing sailors with an immersive experience of being one with the elements.
Dinghy sailing offers several advantages, such as affordability, portability, and maneuverability. Sailors can easily transport and launch dinghies, allowing them to explore various water bodies and remote sailing destinations.
While dinghy sailing is exhilarating, it requires a certain level of skill and adaptability. Sailors must learn to handle the boat in changing weather conditions and use their body weight to maintain stability.
3.1 escaping to serene waters.
Dinghy cruising offers a unique opportunity to explore secluded coves, tranquil lakes, and winding rivers. Sailors can escape the bustling city life and immerse themselves in the serenity of nature.
Before embarking on a dinghy cruise, sailors must acquaint themselves with navigation skills, weather patterns, and safety procedures. Proper planning and preparation are essential for a safe and enjoyable journey.
Preparing for a dinghy cruise involves packing essential supplies, inspecting the boat's condition, and ensuring all safety equipment is onboard. Additionally, sailors should inform someone about their sailing plans for added security.
4.1 traditional sailing dinghies.
Traditional sailing dinghies often have classic designs and are cherished for their historical significance. They offer a nostalgic sailing experience, appealing to enthusiasts looking to reconnect with the past.
Modern performance dinghies, like the 420 sailboat, are designed for optimal speed and maneuverability. They are favored by competitive sailors and those seeking an adrenaline-fueled sailing experience.
When selecting a sailing dinghy, consider your sailing goals, experience level, and preferred type of sailing. Consulting with experienced sailors or boat dealers can help you make an informed decision.
5.1 defining a dinghy.
A dinghy is a small boat, often with a shallow draft, suitable for short trips near the shore or larger vessels. Dinghies serve various purposes, such as transportation between a yacht and the shore.
Dinghies have a rich history, dating back to ancient times when they were used as lifeboats and for short excursions from larger ships. Their design and purpose have evolved over centuries.
In the modern era, dinghies continue to play a crucial role in recreational sailing, racing events, and as safety boats for larger vessels. Their versatility and ease of handling make them an essential part of the sailing community.
Read our top notch articles on topics such as sailing, sailing tips and destinations in our Magazine .
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The 420 sailboat offers an exhilarating racing experience, with its responsive design and competitive class association events worldwide. Sailing enthusiasts can participate in friendly regattas or challenging competitions.
Beyond racing, the 420 sailboat is equally enjoyable for leisurely sailing and cruising. Its stable and forgiving nature makes it suitable for novices, families, and friends seeking quality time on the water.
The 420 sailboat strikes a perfect balance between beginner-friendly features and high-performance capabilities. Novice sailors can develop their skills with ease, while experienced sailors can explore advanced techniques.
7.1 a closer look at flying junior sailboat.
The Flying Junior (FJ) sailboat is another popular double-handed dinghy known for its competitive racing and sailing programs in schools and clubs worldwide.
While the 420 sailboat and Flying Junior share similarities in terms of size and purpose, they have distinct design elements, which affect their handling and performance.
Choosing between the 420 sailboat and Flying Junior depends on individual preferences, training programs available, and desired sailing experience. Both boats offer thrilling adventures for sailors of all ages.
8.1 what defines a yacht.
A yacht is a larger and more luxurious vessel, often used for recreational purposes, cruising, and leisure activities. Yachts are known for their opulence, amenities, and long-range capabilities.
Boats, including sailing dinghies like the 420, refer to smaller watercraft used for various purposes, such as sailing, fishing, transportation, and sports.
Selecting between a yacht and a boat depends on factors such as budget, desired activities, number of passengers, and the kind of sailing experience you wish to have.
9.1 the competitive spirit.
420 sailing competitions are known for their competitive spirit and camaraderie among sailors. Participants challenge their skills and tactics to outperform their rivals.
The International 420 Class Association (ICA) is the governing body that organizes and regulates 420 sailing events worldwide, fostering a vibrant and inclusive sailing community.
From local regattas to prestigious international championships, 420 sailors have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of events that cater to different skill levels and age groups.
10.1 factors to consider before purchasing.
If you're considering owning a 420 sailboat, factors like budget, boat condition, and available storage space should be carefully evaluated to make the right investment.
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your 420 sailboat in top-notch condition. Regular inspections, cleaning, and timely repairs contribute to its longevity and performance.
Owning a 420 sailboat is not just about the vessel itself but the unforgettable memories created on the water. Cherish the moments spent sailing, racing, and exploring new horizons.
420 sailboats have captivated sailors worldwide, offering a versatile and thrilling sailing experience. From competitive racing to leisurely cruising, the 420 sailboat has proven its mettle as a reliable and exciting dinghy. Whether you're an experienced sailor seeking a new challenge or a novice eager to learn the ropes, the 420 sailboat is ready to take you on a memorable adventure on the open waters.
So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite sailing destinations.
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Class Email
Class Website
One-Design Class Type: Dinghy
Was this boat built to be sailed by youth or adults? Youth
Approximately how many class members do you have? 2500
Photo Credit:
The Club 420 is a two person dinghy which forms the base of many local, high school and collegiate programs in North America. Simple for beginning sailors and yet challenging enough for collegiate champions. The Club 420 offers more learning opportunities than any other double-handed boat. Over 5,000 Club 420s are sailed in youth, high school and collegiate programs all over the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.
Boats Produced: 8600
Class boat builder(s):
Laser Performance Zim Sailing
Approximately how many boats are in the USA/North America? 5000
Where is your One-Design class typically sailed in the USA? List regions of the country:
East Coast, Gulf Coast, West Coast, Great Lakes, sprinkled throughout the middle of the country
Does this class have a spinnaker or gennaker? Yes
How many people sail as a crew including the helm? 2
Ideal combined weight of range of crew: 240-300
Boat Designed in 1970
Length (feet/inches): 13’9″
Beam: 5’4″
Weight of rigged boat without sails: 240
Mast Height:
Back to One-Design Central
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420 is a 13 ′ 9 ″ / 4.2 m monohull sailboat designed by Christian Maury and built by Rondar Raceboats, Fountaine Pajot, Snapir Sailing Craft Ltd., MacKay Boats Ltd., Lanaverre, Johnson Boat Works, Far East Boat Co., Whitecap Composites, Xtreme Sailing Products, and Nautivela starting in 1959.
Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.
The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.
Classic hull speed formula:
Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL
Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL
A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.
SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3
A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.
Ballast / Displacement * 100
A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.
D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³
This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.
Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )
This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.
CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)
One of the most successful sailing dinghies ever. (Only the SUNFISH or LASER can be considered in the same league.) Originally designed and built by Lanaverre of France. (They built 32,000 according to one source.) Licenses were later granted to other builders around the world. In 1996, the International Class agreed to amend the deck layout. 1 Trapeze permitted. Spinnaker: 97 sq.ft. There is a ‘Club’ version of heavier construction and slightly different dimensions.
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The sailboat show in Annapolis runs Oct 10—14, 2019, and features over 130 sailboats, including the premiere of 30 models over 30 feet.
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Book Your Summer 2024 Opti, ILCA, or C420 Charter at Zim Sailing
Zim Sailing's Club 420 has quickly become the go-to C420, regardless of whether you're winning the Triple Crown circuit or just teaching learn-to-sail at the local sailing club. One-design sailors want the strongest, lightest, most durable boats and rigging available. We’ve met this demand with proven boat construction techniques and a rigging system that ensures performance, strength, and durability. This durability has led to many happy repeat customers, and has made Zim Sailing the leading provider of Club 420s in the world. Available in Club, Race, and Pro specifications.
Stay informed.
420 sailing dinghy
The International 420 dinghy is a strict one-design class, sailed by a crew of two. Fitted with a trapeze they are highly competetive. There are 56,000 worldwide. This popular dinghy is sailed at school, club, open, national and international levels. There are many second hand boats available, active clubs and excellent tuition for all levels.
The international 420 dinghy offers performance, strength and a higher degree of safety than many other classes. The buoyancy tanks are sealed and have Styrofoam flotation that will keep the craft afloat, even if holed. The rig is easily manageable in the strongest of wind conditions and performance is boosted with the addition of a trapeze and spinnaker.
The size and ‘easy to sail’ characteristics of the International 420 make it ideally suited for both competitive and recreational sailing by all members of the family, whether young or old. With status granted by the ISAF, the 420 has grown rapidly throughout the world and is now recognized as the premier youth training dinghy. The 420 sailing dinghy is the natural choice for National and World Youth Championships. The ISAF tightly control both design and construction ensuring the highest level of uniformity.
Length : 4.2m Beam : 1.63m Weight : 100kg (minimum) Sail Area : Main 10.25m sq, Jib 2.8 m2
British International 420 Class Association
International 420 Association
COMMENTS
The 420 has a bermuda rig, spinnaker and trapeze. It has a large sail-area-to-weight ratio, and is designed to plane easily. The 420 is an International class recognised by World Sailing. The name refers to the boat's length of 420 centimetres (4.2 m; 13 ft 9 in).
It is the weight of sea water that she will displace when she is afloat. Many designers figure displacement when half loaded with stores, liquids and crew. Some report light displacement which is the weight of the hull and permanent equipment but with empty tanks.
A brand new 420 ready to sail costs approximately EUR5500 - 6000, making the boat an extremely affordable choice. About 350 boats are built per year, with 1850 boats built over the past 5 years. In 2020, the International 420 Class celebrated its 60th Anniversary.
Opt Crew Weight 110 - 145 kg. Number of Trapeze Single. Designer Christian Maury . 420 Class Association website: http://www.420sailing.org/ The Boat. The 420 is one of the best options to learn the ropes about two-person dinghy sailing.
The 420 sailboat typically measures around 4.2 meters (13 feet 9 inches) in length, featuring a single trapeze, a mainsail, and a jib. The boat's hull is often made of fiberglass, ensuring durability and performance on the water.
Beam: 5’4″. Weight of rigged boat without sails: 240. Draft: Mast Height: Back to One-Design Central.
420 is a 13 ′ 9 ″ / 4.2 m monohull sailboat designed by Christian Maury and built by Rondar Raceboats, Fountaine Pajot, Snapir Sailing Craft Ltd., MacKay Boats Ltd., Lanaverre, Johnson Boat Works, Far East Boat Co., Whitecap Composites, Xtreme Sailing Products, and Nautivela starting in 1959.
Zim Sailing's Club 420 has quickly become the go-to C420, regardless of whether you're winning the Triple Crown circuit or just teaching learn-to-sail at the local sailing club. One-design sailors want the strongest, lightest, most durable boats and rigging available.
Weight : 100kg (minimum) Sail Area : Main 10.25m sq, Jib 2.8 m2. About the 420 sailing dinghy. Information, specifications, history and advice about sailing the 420 dinghy.
International 420. Technical Details: Length – m. 4.2. Beam – m. 1.63. Hull weight - kg. 80. Mainsail area – m2.