International Tempest class

Designed over 40 years ago, this design represents well the genius of its architect, Ian Proctor. In the words of many in the forefront of small boat design and construction, it is the fastest one-design keelboat in the world. To this day, the Tempest leaves every current “sport” boat in its wake, its origin at that time was without a doubt, revolutionary.

The Tempest was chosen as an International Class after the prototype had performed at a series of selection trials in Holland in 1965. It completely dominated the racing and was the overwhelming first choice. As a class it grew sufficiently to take its place in the 1972 Olympic Games at Kiel, where twenty one nations were represented. It is totally one design and  licensed builders construct the boats from a master set of molds. It is not dinghy with a keel stuck on, a criticism often leveled at it, but a boat, as is evidenced by the new Mark Two, in the mainstream of design aimed at producing lighter, faster and more responsive craft.

Those who wish to read more about the origin of this design and the trials for which it was requested may read more at this link.

In the words of the many who have sailed the Tempest...

                                    ... it is the fastest one design keelboat - period.