Flying Eleven Information, Review, Specs

The Flying Eleven originated in Australia in 1964, conceived as a dedicated high-performance racing skiff. Its design philosophy was rooted in creating a challenging yet accessible two-handed dinghy for adolescent sailors, providing a crucial bridge in their sailing development. The boat operates as a strict one-design class, meaning all boats are built to the same plans and specifications, ensuring a level playing field for competition. The Flying Eleven Class Rules, overseen by the Flying Eleven Sailing Association of Australia Inc., govern these design and construction standards, with the National Class Association (NCA) being the final authority on their interpretation.

Builders such as Dinghy Sports, established in Mona Vale, NSW, Australia, in 1979, exemplify the manufacturing ethos that has sustained the Flying Eleven class. Their commitment lies in meticulous construction that adheres strictly to class rules, producing high-quality, performance-oriented dinghies for specific class associations. This approach ensures that Flying Elevens, regardless of the builder, remain consistent in performance and true to the original design intent. While there haven't been significant "MkI vs. MkII" style variations, the consistent application of one-design rules by builders ensures the class's integrity and long-term relevance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a high-performance racing skiff, the Flying Eleven is designed for speed and agility, requiring active participation from both its two-person crew: a skipper and a crew member. The optimal combined crew weight typically ranges from 75 to 100 kilograms, ensuring the boat can be sailed efficiently and competitively. Featuring a centreboard keel, the boat is versatile enough for both coastal and inland waters, allowing for efficient sailing in varying conditions.

Anecdotal evidence from regattas suggests that the Flying Eleven performs well across a range of conditions, though lighter crews might find the boat more challenging in heavier winds, a common characteristic of high-performance skiffs that benefit from crew weight to keep the boat flat and driving. Despite its "high-performance" label, some sources describe its sailing characteristics as "simple," indicating that while it offers exciting speed and planing capabilities, it remains manageable for its target age group. The boat's design encourages skill development, demanding good boat handling, teamwork, and tactical awareness to maximize its potential on the racecourse.

Accommodations and Layout

Befitting its role as a pure racing dinghy, the Flying Eleven features an open and minimalist layout, with no traditional interior accommodations. The design is entirely focused on performance and crew ergonomics. The cockpit is expansive enough to allow the skipper and crew to move freely, facilitating effective weight distribution and active sailing techniques like hiking and potentially trapezing, essential for controlling the boat's powerful sail plan. The deck and hull are typically constructed from fiberglass, providing a durable and lightweight structure. The layout prioritizes quick access to controls, efficient draining, and a streamlined profile to reduce drag, all critical for competitive racing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and participants consistently praise the Flying Eleven for its role as an excellent developmental boat for young sailors. It serves as a natural progression from smaller junior dinghies, offering a more dynamic and challenging sailing experience that fosters advanced skills and teamwork. The strength of the Flying Eleven class in Australia, with its active national association and regular large-fleet regattas, indicates a supportive and vibrant owner community. This strong class structure provides valuable support, coaching opportunities, and a clear pathway for competitive racing, which is a significant draw for owners. While specific "common problems" are not widely highlighted, typical maintenance for a high-performance racing dinghy would involve regular inspection and upkeep of rigging, foils, and hull, ensuring adherence to class rules for optimal performance and safety. The enduring popularity and consistent participation levels underscore a largely positive ownership experience, driven by competitive racing and the development of future sailing talent.