505 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the 505 traces back to 1953, stemming from trials organized by the International Yacht Racing Union (IYRU) in La Baule, France, to select a fast two-man centerboard dinghy suitable for Olympic competition. The French Yachting Association, seeking a new One-Design racing class, approached John Westell, the designer of the successful "Coronet," to create a new boat. Westell’s design, derived from the Coronet, resulted in the 505, which was officially adopted as an ISAF International Class in 1955.

A hallmark of the 505 class is its unique blend of strict one-design principles and controlled flexibility. While the hull shape is meticulously controlled to ensure fair competition, the class rules have historically allowed considerable freedom in rigging, internal layout, and even the size and shape of the cockpit. This approach has fostered innovation and adaptation within the class over its long production run, permitting different builders to contribute to its evolution while maintaining the core performance characteristics. This openness also explains why many well-known builders, like Fountaine Pajot in their early years, have been involved in the construction of 505s at various times, Builder Article].

Sailing Performance and Handling

The 505 is engineered as a true performance dinghy, designed to plane readily and deliver an exhilarating sailing experience. With a reported sail area of 175 square feet on a fractional sloop rig, combined with its lightweight hull and centerboard, the boat is known for its remarkable speed and responsiveness. Its design incorporates a trapeze for the crew, enabling them to counter the significant power generated by its substantial sail plan and enhance upwind performance.

Owners and enthusiasts consistently praise the 505 for its "sheer acceleration" and dynamic handling. It is described as a "beast" to sail, offering high-speed runs and exciting performance in a range of conditions. While demanding, especially in strong winds where its powerful rig can challenge an unprepared crew, its stability for a performance dinghy is also noted. The centerboard allows for variable draft, from a shallow 0.5 feet when retracted for launching or beaching, to a maximum draft of 4.67 feet when fully deployed, providing excellent upwind performance.

Accommodations and Layout

As a dedicated high-performance racing dinghy, the 505 prioritizes a functional and efficient deck and cockpit layout over interior accommodations. The design focuses on optimizing space for the two-person crew to manage sails, operate the trapeze, and execute maneuvers effectively. There are no enclosed cabins, galleys, or heads typical of cruising sailboats. The open cockpit is designed for competitive sailing, with an emphasis on ergonomic placement of controls and hardware. While the class rules allow some flexibility in the "internal layout and size and shape of cockpit," this refers to racing ergonomics rather than living spaces. Storage is minimal, typically limited to gear bags for racing essentials.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the 505 frequently laud its pure sailing prowess and the joy it provides on the water. Many consider it one of the most fun and exciting dinghies to sail, often highlighting the thrill of its speed and the challenge of mastering its performance. The demanding nature of a high-performance boat with a trapeze and large spinnaker is often cited, suggesting that it appeals to sailors looking for an active and engaging experience. While generally well-regarded for its robust construction, as with any performance dinghy that sees extensive use and is subject to the rigors of racing, older models may occasionally require maintenance, such as re-bedding fittings to address minor leaks. The enduring popularity of the 505, with over 9,100 units built, speaks to its sustained appeal within the racing community worldwide.