The Fastnet 45, also known as Le Compte, is a sailing boat that was designed by Dick Carter in the 1970s. It gained popularity as a successful offshore racing yacht and became renowned for its performance in the Fastnet Race, a prestigious biennial offshore race from Cowes, England, to Fastnet Rock off the coast of Ireland, and back.
The Fastnet 45 was built to be a competitive racing yacht, featuring a sleek and narrow hull design with a deep fin keel and a spade rudder. It had a length overall (LOA) of 45 feet and a beam of around 12 feet. The boat was constructed using fiberglass, which was a relatively new material at the time, providing strength and durability while keeping the weight down.
One of the notable features of the Fastnet 45 was its innovative rigging system. It introduced the concept of a "wishbone" boom, which allowed for better control of the mainsail and improved downwind performance. This design innovation was later adopted by other racing yachts.
The Fastnet 45 gained significant attention in the 1979 Fastnet Race when several boats of this class participated and performed exceptionally well. Despite challenging weather conditions, including a severe storm, the Fastnet 45s demonstrated their seaworthiness and ability to handle rough seas. This race became infamous due to the tragic loss of many boats and lives, but the Fastnet 45s proved to be among the most resilient and successful competitors.
The success of the Fastnet 45 in the Fastnet Race and other offshore races led to its popularity among sailors and racing enthusiasts. It became a sought-after boat for those looking to participate in competitive offshore racing or simply enjoy fast and thrilling sailing experiences.
Today, the Fastnet 45 (Le Compte) is considered a classic racing yacht, with a small number of well-maintained boats still actively sailing. While it may not be as prevalent in modern racing circuits, its historical significance and reputation as a fast and seaworthy yacht continue to make it a beloved choice for sailors who appreciate its design and performance.
