Lehman Interclub Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Interclub was engineered with a specific environmental mandate: to perform reliably in the heavy, erratic winds of a winter gale while carrying two adults. Unlike modern high-performance skiffs that prioritize planing, the IC is a displacement dinghy with a relatively heavy layup, which provides the stability necessary for "frostbiting" in freezing temperatures where a capsize is a serious safety concern. The cat-rigged configuration, featuring a single large mainsail set well forward, simplifies the sail plan but requires a nuanced understanding of mast bend and vang tension to depower in heavy air.

On the water, the boat is known for its tactical sensitivity. Because it does not plane easily, races are won through superior boat handling, roll-tacking, and weight distribution. The hull's significant wetted surface area means that in light air, the sailor must be extremely disciplined to keep the boat moving. Conversely, in a breeze, the IC is famously "stiff" for an 11.5-foot boat, though it remains prone to a "hobby-horse" motion in short chops if the crew's weight is not centered properly. Editorial reviews from decades of winter racing at the Larchmont Yacht Club often highlight the boat's "sea-kindly" nature for its size, noting that its high freeboard helps keep the cockpit remarkably dry compared to contemporary dinghies like the Laser.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Lehman Interclub occupies a unique niche in sailing history as the primary vessel of the "Frostbite" movement. It has been the boat of choice for some of the world’s most accomplished sailors during their off-seasons. Legendary figures such as Cornelius "Glit" Shields and Bus Mosbacher utilized the IC to sharpen their tactical skills during the winter months. The boat's role in the development of American match racing and tactical one-design racing is well-documented in regional sailing histories of the Northeast. While not a "cruising" boat by any means, its presence in sailing literature often centers on the grit and camaraderie of winter racing, appearing frequently in the archives of Soundings and Sail Magazine as the quintessential winter racer.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When evaluating a vintage Lehman Interclub, the primary concerns revolve around its age and the stresses of one-design racing. As many of these boats were built by W.D. Schock several decades ago, structural integrity is the first priority.

1. Mast Step and Partners: The Interclub’s cat rig places immense leverage on the mast step. Inspect the fiberglass around the step for spiderweb cracking or compression. In older boats, the wooden reinforcements under the step may have rotted if water was allowed to sit in the bilge.
2. Flotation Tanks: The IC relies on built-in flotation tanks for safety. These tanks are notorious for developing slow leaks at the hull-to-deck joints. A common test among class members is to perform a pressure test or simply check for water sloshing inside the tanks after a heavy rain or a capsize.
3. Hiking Strap Attachment Points: Because the IC is often sailed by two adults in heavy air, the hiking strap anchors undergo significant stress. Check the through-bolts for backing plate integrity and signs of core delamination.
4. Woodwork and Trim: While many Schock-built versions are primarily fiberglass, older "classic" variants may feature wooden thwarts or rub rails. Ensure these are not merely cosmetically sound but structurally integrated into the hull.
5. Rudder Hardware: The pintles and gudgeons are prone to wear, leading to "slop" in the steering. Given the boat's reliance on precise movements for tactical racing, any play in the rudder should be addressed.

Community & Resources

The boat is supported by the Interclub Dinghy Class Association, which maintains the strict one-design rules that have kept the fleet competitive for over 70 years. This association is the primary repository for technical specifications and the sanctioned "tuning guides" that help sailors optimize the rig for varying wind conditions. The class remains most active in the Northeast United States, particularly through the Frostbite fleets at Larchmont Yacht Club and Manhasset Bay Yacht Club.

The Verdict

The Lehman Interclub is a specialized tool—a "sailor's sailboat" designed for those who value tactical precision and structural durability over raw speed. While it lacks the versatility of a modern multi-purpose dinghy, its pedigree as a Sparkman & Stephens design built by W.D. Schock ensures its status as a permanent fixture in American yachting.

Pros:

• Legendary One-Design Racing: Highly competitive fleets with a storied history.
• Robust Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of winter racing and high-wind conditions.
• Tactical Purity: A displacement hull that rewards strategic thinking and subtle sail trim.
• Resale Stability: The enduring nature of the class ensures a steady market for well-maintained boats.

Cons:

• Single-Purpose Design: Not ideal for casual family daysailing or high-speed planing.
• Weight: Heavier than modern dinghies of the same length, making it difficult to launch solo from a beach.
• Limited Regional Presence: Most active fleets are concentrated in the Northeast U.S. winter racing circuit.