The Menai Strait One Design (MSOD) is a classic racing yacht that was designed specifically for racing in the Menai Strait, a narrow stretch of water between the Isle of Anglesey and mainland Wales in the United Kingdom.
The MSOD was designed by Morgan Giles in 1938 and is a 25-foot long keelboat. It features a traditional wooden construction with a long keel and a gaff-rigged mainsail. The boat has a displacement of around 2.5 tons and can accommodate a crew of up to six people.
The design of the MSOD was intended to provide a competitive racing experience while also being suitable for cruising and day sailing. The boat's long keel and heavy displacement make it stable and seaworthy, allowing it to handle the often challenging conditions of the Menai Strait.
The MSOD class has a strong racing tradition, with regular regattas and races held in the Menai Strait. The boats are known for their close racing and tactical challenges, as the narrow and often unpredictable nature of the strait requires skilful navigation and sail handling.
Over the years, the MSOD class has remained largely unchanged, with the original wooden construction and gaff rig still being used. This has helped to preserve the classic and timeless appeal of the boats, attracting sailors who appreciate the heritage and craftsmanship of traditional yacht design.
The MSOD class continues to be popular today, with a dedicated fleet of boats actively racing in the Menai Strait. The boats are well-loved by their owners and sailors for their beauty, performance, and the camaraderie of the class.
