The North of Ireland Yacht Club was formed in 1899 by an amalgamation of the Ulster Sailing Club with the Cultra Yacht Club. It retained that title until 2 September 1902 when His Majesty King Edward VII was graciously pleased to command that the Club be henceforth known as The Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club.
The One-Design had always been popular in Belfast Lough and under the auspices of the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club in 1912 another one was in the course of formation. This was a 12’6” dinghy and the order for the design was placed with Morgan Giles & May who, as we have seen were responsible for many boats of similar size and design. These were to have a sail area of 100 sq ft and were to be ‘stiff and able little ships’ suitable for use as tenders to larger yachts if required. It was felt a small cheap boat had been needed for some time and the price of these under £19 complete with very little cost for upkeep would make the class a useful and popular one.
P McKeown of Belfast built the early models and in early 1913 eight of these were on order.
Later history of these vessels is unclear as there do not appear to be any records after WW1.
Specifications:
LOA – 12ft 6ins
Beam – 4ft 10ins
Sail Area – 100 sq ft
Draught – 7ins and 3ft 8ins with centreplate down.
