The Northern 1/4 Ton sailing boat is a small racing sailboat that was designed in the 1970s. It was specifically designed to compete in the International Offshore Rule (IOR) 1/4 Ton class, which was a popular racing class during that time.
The boat was designed by Peter Norlin, a Swedish yacht designer known for his successful racing yacht designs. The Northern 1/4 Ton was built to be fast and competitive, while still being affordable and accessible to a wide range of sailors.
The boat has a length overall (LOA) of around 7.5 meters (25 feet) and a beam of about 2.5 meters (8 feet). It features a fractional rig with a large mainsail and a smaller headsail, allowing for easy handling and good performance in a variety of wind conditions.
The Northern 1/4 Ton has a lightweight hull made of fiberglass, which contributes to its speed and agility on the water. It has a deep fin keel and a spade rudder, providing good stability and maneuverability.
In terms of interior accommodations, the Northern 1/4 Ton is primarily designed for racing rather than cruising. It typically has a minimalistic interior with basic amenities, focusing more on providing a comfortable and efficient racing platform.
The boat gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, with many sailors enjoying its performance and competitive nature. It was often raced in regattas and championships, both at the national and international level.
While the Northern 1/4 Ton is not as widely produced or raced today, there are still enthusiasts and owners who appreciate its design and continue to sail and race these boats. It remains a classic example of a small, fast, and affordable racing sailboat from the IOR era.
