Yachts of traditional or modern construction techniques and materials having classic lines above the waterline but modern or traditional lines below the waterline, built since December 31st 1975.

Classes 1, 2 & 3 may be divided into divisions according to the number of yachts entered in each.

The minimum length on deck acceptable for the Channel Race, and races at Paimpol and Guernsey is 7.5 metres. The minimum length on deck for the Dartmouth Classics inshore races is 5.4 metres.

Handicapping:

In the past we have provided IRC classes for those boats with IRC certificates and also classes for non-IRC boats using our own free handicap (the Channel Regatta Handicap). For 2011 we are considering handicapping all boats using the French Classic Handicap System, Jauge Classique, developed by the Yacht Club Classique based in La Rochelle. This system is free to use and is being increasingly used in French regattas on the Atlantic and Channel coasts of France. We will make a decision after evaluating its operation at these regattas during the 2010 season.

Notes on Classes and Eligibility:

1. Yachts built in series production and first launched after 1975 from a design where the first in the series was launched before December 31st 1975 are not normally eligible.

2. Pilot cutters are eligible, but a working boat originally designed for fishing or carrying cargo will not normally be accepted, unless it has been substantially and well converted to a yacht.

3. Originality and modifications.
We feel it is important for the integrity and heritage of classic yachting that owners strive to maintain, as far as is possible, the original character of the yacht's design. We accept that many yachts have been modified through the years and provided such modifications to the hull, rig and accommodation are in keeping with 'the spirit of the period' they are acceptable. However, the organisers may exclude any yacht that is deemed to have been inappropriately modified.

Modern deck hardware and sail handling gear is accepted (eg: self-tailing winches, headsail furling, rod kickers and fully battened mainsails).

4. Acceptance of entries is at the discretion of the eligibility committee; its decision is final.

Guidelines on Eligibility:

All yachts must be of 'classic or traditional design' and owners are required to submit a photo and information on the design and construction of the boat when pre-registering for acceptance by the organising committee.

As a guide to the type of g.r.p. designs which can be considered as 'classic' for inclusion in Class 2, a few examples of designs we would include are: the Twister, Nicholson 36, the early (pre-wedge shape) Swans and the S&S 34. Right at the 'modern edge' of what is accepted is the Contessa 32 (pre-1976). As there is no clear definition of exactly what is 'a classic' the final decision on some of the more borderline designs will rest with the eligibility committee.

If you are not sure if your boat qualifies as a classic for this regatta, please email us at eligibility@classic-channel-regatta.eu including a photo and information on the design and construction. We will then be able to give you a provisional decision as to whether your boat is acceptable, borderline or not acceptable, but the final decision on acceptance will rest with the selection committee.