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Flying Tern
Designer: E.g. Van De Stadt  ·  First built: 1955
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About the Flying Tern

With limited documentation available, the Flying Tern represents one of those intriguing sailboat designs that has faded somewhat from contemporary boating discussions, yet likely holds appeal for sailors seeking something distinctive from mainstream production boats. Based on its evocative name, this sailboat appears designed to capture the graceful, efficient flight characteristics of its seabird namesake. Terns are known for their precise handling and ability to navigate coastal waters with remarkable agility, suggesting this vessel may excel in similar conditions along shorelines and protected waters. The scarcity of readily available specifications often indicates either a limited production run or a design that predates the comprehensive documentation common with modern boats. This can actually work in favor of discerning sailors, as such boats frequently offer unique character and craftsmanship that sets them apart from cookie-cutter production vessels. For prospective buyers researching the Flying Tern, the limited spec availability means careful inspection and consultation with marine surveyors becomes particularly important. However, boats with mysterious pedigrees sometimes reveal themselves to be hidden gems, offering distinctive sailing characteristics and the satisfaction of owning something genuinely uncommon on today's waters.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 13.94 ft / 4.25 m
Beam 5.09 ft / 1.55 m
Max Draft 3.12 ft / 0.95 m
Min Draft 0.49 ft / 0.15 m
Displacement 287.00 lb / 130 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 120.00 ft² / 11.15 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Centerboard Dinghy
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction Wood/FG
Designer E.G. van de Stadt
First Built 1955
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Performance Ratios
SA/Displacement Sail Area to Displacement ratio measures how much sail power a boat has relative to its weight. Higher values mean more performance and speed.
Under 14 — Heavy cruiser, slow14–18 — Cruising sailboat18–22 — Cruiser/racerOver 22 — Performance racer
44.17
Capsize Screening Formula The USHS Capsize Screening Formula estimates offshore capsize risk. Lower is safer — values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing.
Under 2.0 — Safe for offshore2.0–2.2 — Borderline offshoreOver 2.2 — Coastal use recommended
3.09
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