Farr 3.7 class now has a committed builder in the UK

Early adopters of the Farr 3.7 class in the UK © Daryl Wilkinson

Early adopters of the Farr 3.7 class in the UK © Daryl Wilkinson

Great news! At last, after what seems like an age, the UK Farr 3.7 class has a committed builder in the UK. Meaning all those sailors longing to get hold of a Farr 3.7 and not wishing to self-build or import can go straight to a UK boat builder.

Butler Boats will work with well known spar, fittings and sail makers to supply an off-the-shelf package with customisable options in wood and composite. Construction has started on the prototype using our builder's existing hull mould. When all concerned are satisfied with the prototype, deck moulds will be taken for composite construction to take place.

At the heart of this process is the desire from both the class and builder to create a quality boat that is simple, fun, and priced very competitively. With the sailing performance and design pedigree of the Farr 3.7 never in question we hope that this combination will meet with sailors approval.

Prototype sailing and the modification process will be taking place over the first part of the new year in preparation for the 2014 season.

You can see for yourself at the 2014 RYA Dinghy Show, where the Farr 3.7 will be available to see, arrange a test sail, and order.

The class association has appointed a committee and in due course will start to construct an open meeting circuit as members accrue.

It just remains for me to say thanks to everyone that has shown an interest in the Farr 3.7 and to remind everyone that there are still plenty of second-hand boats available in New Zealand at bargain prices! As importing is quite a simple process that the class can help explain, for those on a slightly more limited budget this is still a relatively cheap and painless way into ownership.

Visit www.uk3-7class.org for more information.