Fowey River Class Association

Fowey River Class Association Fowey River dinghies are wooden clinker built boats with a hull length of just over 15 feet. Plans were available to buy for a modest sum.

They are based on a design by Reg Freeman which first appeared in the 21 April 1939 issue of Yachting World and Motor Boating Journal. This was the result of a design competition for a 'Knockabout' boat that could be home built or built cheaply by a boatbuilder. It is a very robust and versatile boat which was intended to combine ample carrying capacity for a family with simple construction and sa

fety. The boat was originally known as the ‘15 foot Yachting World Knockabout’ until the name ‘Fowey River’ came commonly into use in the 1950’s. Fowey Rivers have a Gunter rig and can be safely used for family sailing, with or without an outboard, for racing or simply for rowing up and around the rivers and creeks, just for the pleasure of it. They are very seaworthy and are now raced regularly in their own class. So far there have been 70 boats built and no.71 is under construction (January 2021). The annual class championships attracts around 20 entries and regatta has recently seen 36 boats for the week. The first boat to be built was ‘Michele’, (later renamed Gwalhir), in 1950 by the Hunkin Boat yard. Unfortunately some of the older boats have disappeared, including Michele (which has been broken up), but the majority survive and are still sailed in Fowey harbour. As old boats are discovered lying under covers or hidden away in sheds they are now becoming restoration projects and some of the oldest boats are the best looking! Fowey Rivers, many of which are given names of sea birds, are easy to recognise by their brightly coloured sails. They make wonderful family boats and because of their simple and safe design are sturdy in strong winds and seas making them easily adaptable to single-handed sailing. The full history of the class is presented in a 200 page book ‘70 Colourful Years’ available from Fowey River Gallery.

Fantastic win by Andy and Merryn in FR51. They won the 50 cup today
25/05/2026

Fantastic win by Andy and Merryn in FR51. They won the 50 cup today

25/05/2026
10/05/2026
01/05/2026

Try a Fowey River Day!

Sunday May 17th from 10.30 Albert Quay Pontoon

This is your opportunity to have a Sail in one of the Colourful Fowey River Dinghy’s and see for yourself why everyone loves sailing them.

Pre-booking required, please contact Kevin C***s (Fleet Captain) to book your slot 07831 256723

Warm Jacket and soft soled shoes required, Life Jackets must be worn. If you don’t have one, we will provide one for you.

Please note, this event may be cancelled at short notice due to unsuitable weather conditions

29/11/2025
Sorry got link wrong earlier.Here is the link to the whole Regatta review in Y and Y.
20/09/2025

Sorry got link wrong earlier.
Here is the link to the whole Regatta review in Y and Y.

This year's regatta held 16-23 August was full of variety and saw great competition in all the classes. Held almost every year since 1819, it is the highlight of the year in Fowey and is held in conjunction with the town carnival.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CmzRRB8xL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
14/09/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CmzRRB8xL/?mibextid=wwXIfr

⚓ Building a Fowey River Boat
A legendary English racing dinghy is back in the spotlight. Designed in 1939 and reborn in the Cornish town of Fowey, the 15' Fowey River Boat blends tradition, precision, and local craftsmanship. With more than 70 boats now built—and over 50 still based in Fowey—it’s a classic class that’s truly come full circle.
📖 Read the full story of this elegant revival in WoodenBoat magazine.
https://www.woodenboat.com/issue/288/building-fowey-river-boat

28/08/2025

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Fowey
CORNWALL

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