International 210

Description

The International 210 is a classic American one-design racing keelboat, designed by Fenwick Williams under the supervision of renowned naval architect C. Raymond Hunt as an evolution of the smaller International 110, and first built in 1946 to serve as an affordable, versatile day-sailer and competitive racer for yacht clubs around Massachusetts Bay. Measuring 29 feet 10 inches (9.1 m) in length overall with a slender 5-foot-10-inch (1.8 m) beam, hard-chined hull, and deep fixed keel drawing 3 feet 10 inches (1.2 m), the lightweight 2,300-pound (1,043 kg) sloop displaces just enough for stability while delivering exhilarating speed—often outpacing boats like Shields, Stars, and J/24s in fleet racing. Originally constructed in plywood with wooden spars, the class transitioned to foam-cored fiberglass hulls in 1967 (with aluminum spars approved in 1973), enabling ongoing production and modern updates while preserving strict one-design rules for fair competition; it carries a fractional sloop rig with approximately 305 square feet (28 m²) of upwind sail area via mainsail, jib, and symmetric spinnaker. Crewed by three to five sailors, the 210 excels in both inter-club regattas and casual outings, boasting active fleets primarily in New England (e.g., Boston, Marblehead, and Gull Lake areas) and supported by the International 210 Association, which organizes events like the Wells Bowl and maintains a thriving community nearly 80 years after its debut as a "modern racing sled" with timeless double-ender lines.