Spotlight on: The 49er FX High Performance Skiff

An evolution from the 49er high performance skiff is the 49er FX. Designed for women, the 49er FX features highly efficient upwind sails and a new spinnaker design that allows the skiff to compete with the larger 49er in most conditions.

Designed in 2012 by Julian Bethwaite and Mackay Boats, the 49er FX made its first debut at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. The two-person twin trapeze skiff benefits from a fully established, active world-wide racing circuit.

The 49er FX shares the same platform as the 49er but with a different mast of 7.5m and sails. It’s nicely balanced in all conditions with a rig that is able to be adjusted for best performance in each sea state and windspeed. The new developments in skiff rig design also allow the boat to achieve a great set up very quickly.

The sailplan of the 49er FX was designed to produce the correct amount of power for a lighter crew target weight specified by world sailing. It suits a 120 – 140kg crew who can be fully powered up at a similar windspeed as the men in the 49er and can also start depowering at a the same windspeed.

The skiff’s centre of effort has been lowered due to the lower, shorter aspect ratio sailplan, which makes it easier to right from a capsize, easier to sail, and helps to enhance the overall performance of the boat.

Ovington Boats is proud to offer two comprehensive 49er FX packages as well as a hull-only version and a variety of spare parts.

You can view our packages and products online here. Contact us to discuss which type of sailing boat is best suited for you.

 

Ovington Boats is one of the world’s most successful small boat building businesses specialising in the high-performance dinghy market. View our range of boats online or contact us to discuss your needs.