Whaf Is A One-Design or Class Boat? 17 



and seller when a class boat changes hands, and tends to keep the value 

 of boats up over the years. A one-designer is generally a wise boating 

 investment if suited to the sailing area and if other boats of the same class 

 are nearby. Actually, a well-maintained, one-design racing sailboat de- 

 preciates very little through the years, and many built before World 

 War II are selling for more now than they cost new. The open-design 

 sailboats and powerboats depreciate in value and in relative performance 

 just as automobiles do. But the one-design boat retains its value. This is 

 especially true if the boat has a good racing record. This competitive 

 factor is very important in the price of a used boat. Also, a numerous 

 class in an area will be more in demand because of the greater racing 

 competition it offers than a class with only a few boats. 



As you can see from Section II, there is a large number of one-design 

 classes, and for the beginner this can cause a certain amount of confusion. 

 Where to start, and how to make a choice from among all the names of 

 birds, animals, fish, heavenly bodies, naval architects and geographical 

 locations? These questions can be partly answered in the next chapter. 

 But, since most one-design fleets are affiliated with local yacht clubs and 

 organizations, it is suggested that a prospective sailboat owner select a class 

 that is common in the area to assure racing competition and perhaps the 

 benefit of a local sailing-instruction program. For instance, you won't 

 have as much fun sailing a Blue Jay in waters where all of the sailing 

 is done in Snipes. Even if you purchased the craft at a very favorable 

 price, it's no bargain unless you can get every possible enjoyment out of 

 it. Therefore, hang around the water front, talk to owners, and— in par- 

 ticular—see which sailboats are sailing and racing. 



