The International 806 is a distinctive sailboat that seamlessly blends spirited performance with practical interior accommodations, establishing itself as a popular choice in Northern and Central European waters. Designed by the acclaimed Swedish maritime architect Pelle Petterson in the mid-1970s, this sloop-rigged yacht was envisioned as a versatile cruiser/racer, capable of competitive regatta sailing while offering sufficient comfort for weekend cruising. Built by Ott Yacht GmbH, a German shipyard renowned for its dedication to preserving and building upon successful one-design classes, the International 806 benefits from a construction ethos that prioritizes quality and adherence to strict class rules. 3, 4, builder article
International 806 Information, Review, Specs
- Make
- International
- Model
- 806
- Number Built
- 510
- Production Year(s)
- 1974 - ??
The International 806 was introduced in 1974, emerging from the design talents of Pelle Petterson, a distinguished sailor and yacht designer with Olympic medals to his name. Petterson's design philosophy often gravitated towards creating "fast and optimal sailing machines," a characteristic evident in the International 806's performance-oriented lines. Pelle P website, previous search The concept for the 806 specifically aimed to create a regatta boat that also provided surprising interior space. Over 500 units of this model have been built, underscoring its enduring appeal.
Ott Yacht GmbH, based in Meersburg, Germany, has been the custodian of the International 806's legacy, manufacturing these yachts with a focus on consistent quality. The company's approach involves taking over the production of established designs like the 806, ensuring that the original design integrity and performance characteristics are maintained. Ott Yacht employs high-quality isophtalic acid resins and meticulously carries out GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) hull construction in-house, ensuring durability and consistent performance., 22] While primarily known as the International 806, the yacht is also sometimes referred to as the Monark 806.
Sailing Performance and Handling
The International 806 is designed for a sporty sailing experience, evident in its performance ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 17.52, she is moderately light for her size, suggesting good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.40 indicates a solid level of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length ratio of around 146.16 classifies her as a relatively light and performance-oriented vessel for her waterline length of 22.97 feet. Test reports have highlighted its "sporty appearance" and "sports focus," indicating a yacht that is responsive and engaging to sail. Despite its performance orientation, the yacht's design offers a surprisingly spacious interior, suggesting a thoughtful balance between speed and liveability.
Accommodations and Layout
Despite its compact length overall of 26.44 feet, the International 806 offers a functional interior layout. The design provides a single cabin equipped with four berths, making it suitable for short cruises or overnight stays. The arrangement typically includes saloon berths and a V-berth in the forepeak, providing sleeping arrangements for a small crew or family. A galley is also integrated into the layout, offering basic amenities for meal preparation. Reviewers have noted the surprising spaciousness of the interior, a significant achievement for a boat of this size with a performance-oriented design. While specific details on finish materials and ventilation are not extensively documented in public reviews, Ott Yacht's general commitment to "renowned Danish boat building quality standards" and high-quality construction implies a respectable level of interior fit and finish, likely incorporating durable fiberglass and practical surfaces suitable for a performance cruiser., 22]
Measurements
Construction & Hull
- Construction Material
- Fiberglass (Solid)
- Hull Type
- Monohull Sailboat
- Keel Type
- Fin
- Rudder
- 1x Skeg-Hung
- Ballast
- 1587 lbs
- Displacement
- 3968 lbs
- Water Capacity
- -
- Fuel Capacity
- -
Engine
- Engine Make
- —
- Engine Model
- —
- Engine Type
- —
- Engine HP
- —
- Engine Count
- 1
- Drive Type
- —
- Fuel Type
- —
Rig & Sails
- Rig Type
- Fractional Sloop
- P (Main Luff)
- 29.53 ft
- E (Main Foot)
- 9.84 ft
- I (Foretriangle Height)
- 25.29 ft
- J (Foretriangle Base)
- 10.2 ft
- Forestay Length (est)
- 27.27 ft
- Main Sail Area
- 145.29 sqft
- Foretriangle Sail Area
- 128.98 sqft
- Total Sail Area (Reported)
- 274 sqft
- Total Sail Area (Calc)
- 274.27 sqft
Dimensions
- LOA
- 26.44 ft
- LWL
- 22.97 ft
- Beam
- 7.64 ft
- Draft
- 3.41 ft
- Max Headroom
- -
- Air Draft
- -
Calculations
- Hull Speed
- 6.42 kn
- Pounds per Inch Immersion
- 627.05