The Mount Desert Island One-Design (MDIOD) is a class of sailing boat that was designed specifically for racing in the waters around Mount Desert Island, Maine, USA. It is a small, one-design keelboat that was first introduced in the early 1900s.
The MDIOD was designed by William H. Hand Jr., a renowned naval architect, in 1905. Hand designed the boat to be fast, seaworthy, and suitable for the often challenging conditions found in the waters off Mount Desert Island. The boat was intended to be affordable and accessible to a wide range of sailors, promoting competitive racing in the area.
The MDIOD has a length overall of 21 feet and a beam of 6 feet 6 inches. It features a gaff-rigged mainsail and a jib, providing a traditional and elegant appearance. The boat has a shallow draft, allowing it to navigate the shallow waters around Mount Desert Island with ease.
The MDIOD class has strict one-design rules, meaning that all boats in the class are identical in terms of design, construction, and equipment. This ensures fair and competitive racing, with the skill of the sailors being the determining factor in the outcome.
The MDIOD class has a strong and active racing community, with regular regattas and events held in the waters around Mount Desert Island. The boats are known for their speed and maneuverability, making for exciting and challenging races.
The MDIOD has become an iconic symbol of sailing in the Mount Desert Island area, with its distinctive design and rich history. It continues to be a popular choice for sailors who appreciate the tradition and competitive spirit of one-design racing.
