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Home  News  Interview with Mike Wyatt, President of the American Model Yachting Association

Interview with Mike Wyatt, President of the American Model Yachting Association

Is This Really Sailboat Racing? Heck Yes!

US Sailing: Tell us about AMYA?

Mike Wyatt: The American Model Yachting Association was founded 50 years ago as an informal organization, using a newsletter to communicate to and connect with its members.  Currently, membership stands at approximately 2,250 members, though there are many more RC boat owners/sailors out there. We sanction about 30 different classes of radio controlled boats.

• 19 one design classes that are sanctioned by AMYA – rules that one design in nature
• 8 Development classes are very permissive in rules. Many are home built.
• A few vintage groups with boat designs before 1970, as far back as 1900.

US Sailing: What’s the history of model boat racing?

Mike Wyatt: Model sailboat racing started in the 1870’s. Back then, the boats were free-sailed, set and released by the skipper, sailed across the pond to an assistant who reset the sails and sent the boat back the other direction. After that there were mechanical means of steering, much like the early version of “autopilot” gear used on cruising boats.

Around 1970, radio-controlled sailing began to take over, and is now almost 100%. Although we still have sailors that race vintage boats using vane gear control.

• The oldest, still-active model sailing clubs in the U.S. are the Central Park MYC (Model Yacht Club) in New York City, and the San Francisco MYC Established in 1896. But model sailing started in the USA, in the New York area in 1872. There were three clubs that were eventually absorbed by the current one in Central Park.

Mike Wyatt: I have heard sailboat racing described as “a chess game on the water,” with the strategy and tactics determining makes a difference between winning or not. Radio sailing is the “same game with different pieces.”

Radio sailing is low cost. You can get going with as little as $500 for everything a person needs including the boat, radio equipment, batteries and charger. The most expensive ($5000-6000) is a J-Boat design approximately over 100 pounds, about 8 feet long, and an open design heavy enough that the class generally requires two people to launch. One of the most popular “J Boats” is “ Ranger ” a model of the 1930’s America’s Cup winner, but with a Marconi rig.

Due to the low costs, it is feasible to own many RC classes. I have a friend who owns (per his wife’s count) over 50 RC sailboats, and several boats in some of the classes.

Radio sailing can be done by anyone, regardless of age, gender, or physical ability. We have radio sailors who are in wheelchairs, on scooters, and many who sail comfortably seated in a folding chair.

US Sailing: Is it really racing, or is it more like playing video games?

Mike Wyatt: Radio controlled racing has very little resemblance to a video game. You are still outside, in the wind and elements, watching an actual boat that you have to tune for the conditions and race around a course. I see people who were full scale sailors before, actually “ooching” with their transmitter – hands and bodies moving around as they try to “ooch” their boat along!

US Sailing: What are the key characteristics of the top model boat racers?

Mike Wyatt: In full scale sailing, physical aspects are different – you feel the boat. In radio sailing you only have your eyes and concentration is critical. Tuning is done before you launch.  Model boats have vangs, adjustable backstays, adjustable mast rake and rig tension, and sheeting angles. All the same controls that are on a full scale boat need to be adjusted pre sail in model competition. If you get it wrong, its painful and you lose. You cannot make changes until between races, and then they have to be fast before the next start.

US Sailing: Do they practice much?

Mike Wyatt: Exactly like full scale sailors, the best RC sailors tend to have sailed more than the ones who perform at a lower level. We have past World Champions, Olympic sailors, and even one past Swedish Olympic Team Coach. Many top-level sailors from full scale racing are part of our sport. Bruce Farr, Bob Johnstone, Chuck Millican, and many other very good sailors are RC sailors.

On the other hand, Peter Feldman (to my knowledge) was never a full scale sailor. But he is currently a National Champion in several RC Classes, and has only been in RC sailing for less than 5 years!

Because radio sailing is easier, you can “go sailing” in a one-hour block of time, even for just a few minutes. Many radio sailors sail more than they ever did in their full scale days. It is not impossible for RC sailors from some clubs to put in six days a week racing, in up to six to eight classes! My club (Western Reserve MYC in Northeast Ohio) will do over 600 heats/races per year – in seven months’ time. Equate to 80-90 races a month racing two to three hours a day. The less active clubs sail two days a week; the more active sail six days a week, and two classes a day. The bonus is that RC racing is very family friendly since racers can get home in a couple of hours to do other activities.

US Sailing: Do they play by the rules?

Mike Wyatt: Sailors, as you know, are competitive!

US Sailing: Speaking of the rules, how different are the rules to the regular Racing Rules of Sailing?

Mike Wyatt: Yes, we sail by the same Racing Rules of Sailing as used all over the World, with just a few variances because of the nature of our sport.

Appendix E of the RRS states the variances used in radio sailing-

• “The Zone” is four lengths, not three.
• “There are no Protest Flags – a racer protests verbally since he or she is on land within a few feet of the other sailors.
• The Start is signaled using a recorded countdown of two minutes – but usually just One Minute, No flags.
• Many clubs allow touching Marks (except the Start or Finish marks), because you are not ON the boat to see the Mark as well as you would in full scale sailing.

US Sailing: Do you find that model boat racers tend to race other boats too?

Mike Wyatt: About 50% of the sailors from my RC club have never been on a full scale sailboat.  I think that active full scale sailors have no significant advantage from being full scale racers.  The most obvious advantage for the full scale sailor might lie in the tuning aspects of the boats.  Kids, women, and folks with physical challenges do not have a weight or strength disadvantage.  Many of us sit down while racing.

Coaching is routinely done by the more experienced, gold fleet sailors for the less experienced.  There are training sessions where these sailors work with those who want to learn and get better in RC boats. These sessions primarily involve tuning and sometimes include boat handling drills.

US Sailing: What are the most popular boats and where are they being sailed?

Mike Wyatt: The #1 boat in the USA and Canada is the Soling 1 Meter. There have been more than 10,000 Soling 1 Meter kits sold, and 687 of the 2,250 AMYA Members, own over 1,000 Soling 1 Meter boats. It is approximately a 1/8 scale model of the International Soling. The Soling is sold as a Kit that takes maybe 30-40 hours to build. But with the popularity of the class, it is easy to find a used RC Soling, and like any one design, a good used one is as competitive as a new one.

And, in every club there is likely someone who will build a kit boat for you, for around $700.  Divide by the hours and you see that professional building is a labor of love. The guy building a Soling for you does that for around $ 10 an hour!

The second largest and fastest-growing RC Class is the Dragon Flight 95. The DF95 has 560 AMYA Members owning over 600 boats. This boat is a strict one design, sails well, is light and quick, and has an active class in terms of clubs and regattas. DF-95s as well as the smaller DF-65 are being sailed at full scale yacht clubs as one design fleets. The 95s were even sailed at the 2019 San Diego NOOD regatta! The 2020 San Diego NOOD DF-95 event was also scheduled- but was canceled due to COVID-19. The growing popularity of this one-design is also because it is sold almost ready to sail. You can put one together in a couple of hours, just knowing how to tie a few knots. And it is a great value at a little under $400.

Another is the RC Laser, pretty close to the prototype model of Bruce Kirby’s design, is actually a little longer than 1 meter. It is a strict OD and ready to sail out of the box.

Just like in the society as a whole, people are looking for things that are ready to go, rather than having to be built. So, a used boat, a kit or a ready to sail boat is an early choice people have to make.

US Sailing: How would you characterize the average model boat sailor?

Mike Wyatt: We have no real statistics. But I would say the average AMYA Member is in his or her early 60s, so many are retired. But we have sailors that range from young teens to mid-80s. Just like full scale sailors, we like to have a good time. But the AMYA has clubs in over 30 States and Canada, so there is a wide variety of people, from all backgrounds, who are active RC sailors.

I raced International FJs (Flying Juniors) for 40 years, was the Class President and the Chief Measurer, and have raced RC since 2007. Once I picked up a transmitter, I gave my wetsuit and PFD away!

US Sailing: How complicated is the equipment?  DO people change gear regularly, new sails or other parts/pieces?

Mike Wyatt: Not complicated at all. Most RC boats have just two servos, one that controls the sheeting angle, and another that controls the rudder. The boat has a receiver to get signals from a transmitter, which is in the hands of the skipper. Range is about ¾ miles – more than you would ever want.

Just like in full scale boats, sails are faster when they have good shape. Most RC boats use Dacron sails, although some allow mylar and some less costly ones use nylon sails. A full suit of sails, main and jib, is around $80-$150.

US Sailing: Are some venues preferable? Ponds, pools, bays, rivers, current, no current?

Mike Wyatt: RC sailing is possible on almost any body of water, and in winds from a near calm to over 20 MPH. Boats can be tuned to handle more wind, and some classes have multiple rigs for different wind strength, even pools with fans will allow winter sailing! Set the fans up with “offset” for preferred tacks.

US Sailing: How do you set courses and handle starts? Is there a race committee?

Mike Wyatt: Races are generally 5-15 minutes in length. Our club sails 12 races a day! That is another advantage of RC sailing – lots of action. A 1-minute Start sequence on a 12-15 foot line with 12 boats can be bedlam. So, we get a lot more starts, mark roundings, and close competition than is typical in full scale racing. Even more than collegiate racing!

There is a race director who does not complete. He/she sets the course, starts the clock on a one- or two-minute cycle and we are off! Most big regatta courses use W/L courses of 100 – 150-foot legs. In club races, most are triangle courses. Normally, championship fleets will sail full legs, starting at the leeward end, and finishing in the middle. Club races might start and finish in middle.

US Sailing: Is it difficult to get involved? What does it take? Is it expensive?

Mike Wyatt: Easy. First, go the AMYA Website: www.theamya.org

On page 1 of the website, there is a link to the AMYA’s 200 th Issue to Model Yachting , our quarterly magazine, and the only magazine on our sport in the world. This issue was the 200 th one of our magazine, and also celebrated the 50 th Anniversary of the AMYA. It is online, free, and all-color. Issue #200 will give you a great look at the sport, the history, and the classes in radio sailing. Click Here.

Anyone who is interested should look at what AMYA Clubs are available in their immediate area, and then contact them for a visit. Click here .

Every club welcomes new people and has a list of available used boats to buy (if not actual club-owned boats available for sale or to borrow). The club members will give a prospect good guidance on how the get started, and let you sail an RC boat. Many will even allow a prospective sailor to race one of their boats in a club race. Come join us – our mantra is KISMIF – “Keep it Simple; Make it FUN!”

* All photos in the article are courtesy of AMYA .

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Model Yachting: A Comprehensive Guide to the Hobby

• By - Kyle Hilson
• Posted on November 13, 2023 November 14, 2023
• Posted in RC Boats

Model yachting is a fascinating hobby or sport that involves building miniature versions of sailing yachts that can be sailed on water. It is a popular pastime enjoyed by people of all ages, and it is a great way to improve one’s patience, attention to detail and enjoyment of nature. Model yachting has a long and rich history, having begun as a hobby for wealthy yacht owners who wanted to recreate their vessels in miniature form. Over time, it has evolved into an organized sport, with national and international competitions held regularly. The boats used in model yachting come in different types such as radio-controlled, free-sailing, and pond yachts each having unique characteristics that make them ideal for different situations. With its history, different types of boats are used, and competitions it has to offer, model yachting is truly a fascinating and engaging hobby for all enthusiasts. In this article, we will dive into the different aspects of model yachting to give you a better understanding of what this sport is all about.

The History of Model Yachting

Model yachting has a long and rich history that dates back to the 1840s when wealthy yacht owners created miniature versions of their boats to be sailed on ponds and lakes. Since then, model yachting has come a long way, with its own subcultures, clubs, and competitions. Here are some key events and figures in the history of model yachting :

• In 1876, model yachting was introduced to the United States through the New York Yacht Club .
• The National Model Sailing Association (NMSA) was established in 1901 and became the governing body for model yachting in the US.
• The first world championships in model yachting were held in England in 1920.

Over the years, model yachting continued to evolve, with new materials and technologies allowing for even more intricate and realistic models. Today, there are many different types of model yachts available, ranging from simple wooden boats to high-tech carbon fiber creations. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of model yachting , there are many resources available, including websites, books, and magazines. Some popular websites for model yachting enthusiasts include Model Yachting Magazine and the American Model Yachting Association .

What is the history of racing yachts?

Racing yachts have been around for centuries but the modern era of yacht racing began in the mid-19th century with the creation of regattas and yacht clubs. The America’s Cup, first held in 1851, is one of the oldest and most prestigious yacht races in the world. In the 20th century, advances in technology led to the development of faster and more efficient racing yachts. Today, yacht racing is a popular sport, with many competitions held around the world.

For more information about yacht racing, you can visit the websites of the International Sailing Federation (ISAF), World Sailing, and the Royal Yacht Association (RYA). Yacht racing enthusiasts can find a wide variety of products, from sailing gear to yacht equipment, on websites such as West Marine and Sailrite.

How to Get Started in Model Yachting

If you’re interested in trying model yachting for the first time, here are some steps you can take to get started:

• Research different types of model yachts: There are many different types of model yachts available, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Research different types of boats and their advantages and disadvantages to decide which one is right for you.
• Join a local club: Joining a local model yachting club is a great way to connect with other enthusiasts, learn about the sport and practice your skills.
• Find a body of water: You’ll need a pond, lake, or small bay to sail your model yacht. Ensure it’s a safe location and has good access.
• Get the right equipment: You’ll need a model yacht kit, radio control equipment, batteries and more. Take the time to get good equipment to prevent scale effect over time.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: Learning to sail a model yacht takes time and patience. Keep practicing to improve your skills.

Moreover, model yachting can also have a creative, DIY aspect too. Some people enjoy building every part of their boats from scratch, while others enjoy customizing commercially available models with their own unique touches. A table displaying the different types and features of available model yachts can be a good way to showcase this information.

How do I start working on a yacht?

To start working on a yacht, you can follow the below steps:

• Get necessary training and certifications, such as STCW Basic Safety Training, ENG1 medical certificate, and a sailing license.
• Network and connect with people in the industry, attend job fairs and conferences.
• Consider joining a crew agency, such as Crew4Yachts, YPI Crew, or DieselCrew.
• Search for job postings on yacht-specific job websites, such as Yachting Pages or Yotspot.

It’s essential to have relevant experience in the yachting industry and a willingness to work hard. With persistence and dedication, you can begin your career on a yacht.

Types of Model Yachting Boats

Model yachts come in different shapes and sizes, making them suitable for different levels of experience, budgets, and preferences. Here are some popular types of model yachting boats :

• Radios Control, or RC boats: Ideal for those who prefer precision, remote control or competitive sailing, these boats can be maneuvered with precision steering and speed control through specialized remote control units or employing the usage of mobile applications.
• Free Sailing Boats: Although this type of model yacht has limited control over the yacht’s trajectory, these boats are perfect for casual sailing and less organized competitions. They typically use a built-in sail and do not rely on radio control.
• Pond Yachts: Pond yacht’s roots date back to the sailboat models collectors and enthusiasts of the 19th century. These newly available from companies like vintage model company’s pond yachts come equipped with high-end details, advanced manufacturing techniques, and optional upgrades, making them both stunning and practical.

Regardless of the type of model yacht you choose, investing in a good quality boat that suits your skill level and sailing preference is key. There are several online resources and stores you can use, such as model yacht online shops, specialized forums and websites, like amya.org .

Model yachting competitions have become increasingly popular and organized over the years, attracting enthusiasts from around the world who compete for titles and medals. Here are some of the different types of model yachting competitions:

• Club Events: These are typically small, casual events held by local clubs, where participants can practice their sailing skills and get to know other enthusiasts in their area.
• Regional Competitions: Held throughout the year, regional competitions gather competitors from clubs within a specific region or state. These events often spark long-lasting friendships and rivalries, making them a great opportunity to see how well you stand next to others outside of your demographic.
• National and International Events: These are the biggest and most prestigious model yachting events, drawing competitors from all over the world. They typically take place over multiple days and involve a variety of competitions and social events.

To compete in these events, it is important to follow the specific rules and guidelines of each competition. Registration is required and can come at a steep price tag. There are also specialized websites such as modelyachting.org and various model yachting magazines like Model Yachting Magazine and Yachts & Yachting offering coverage of competitions and general information about the sport.

What is competitive yachting?

Competitive yachting, also known as yacht racing, involves sailing boats of different classes in a race against each other to determine the fastest vessel and crew. Yacht racing can take place in open seas, lakes or rivers and can range from a casual contest to a highly competitive international event.

Types of yacht racing categories may include:

• Inshore racing
• Offshore racing
• Match racing
• Cruising racing

There are several international organizations that govern yacht racing, including World Sailing, International Maxi Association and Offshore Racing Congress.

For those interested in getting involved in competitive yachting, there are several resources available, including:

• Yacht racing clubs
• Online forums and communities
• Training courses and schools

Additionally, there are several websites that provide information on upcoming yacht races, yacht racing news and results, and resources for yacht owners and crew members, including Sail World, Yachting World, and Sailing Anarchy.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Model Yachting

Model yachting is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it does come with its own sets of advantages and disadvantages.

• Improves Patience: Building and sailing a model yacht involves a lot of patience and attention to detail, helping you become more focused and disciplined.
• Embraces Nature: Model yachting takes place on water, providing a great opportunity to spend time outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Friendly Competition: Competitions offer a chance to meet other enthusiasts and participate in friendly competitions that can help improve your skills.
• Provides a Sense of Accomplishment: Successfully building and sailing a model yacht can provide a great sense of achievement and satisfaction.
• Time-Consuming: The construction of a model yacht can take up a significant amount of time, depending on the size of the yacht and level of detail put into it.
• Equipment Challenges: Model yachting equipment can be expensive and needs to be well-maintained in order to work correctly, that requires long-term financial and time commitments.
• Weather Restrictions: Inclement weather can affect sailing conditions, limiting the amount of time you can spend on the water.
• Seasonal Hobby: Model yachting is a seasonal hobby for most people, as cold temperatures and frozen bodies of water can make it impossible to sail during the winter months.

In the end, the choice of whether or not to pursue model yachting depends largely on personal interests and the amount of time and money one is willing to commit. Nonetheless, it’s an excellent and satisfying sport/hobby that is well worth considering for those who love challenges and being close to nature.

What is the benefit of yachting?

There are numerous benefits of yachting, including:

• Relaxation: Yachting provides an escape from the stresses of everyday life and can be a peaceful way to unwind and recharge.
• Adventure: Exploring new destinations and discovering hidden coves and beaches can be an exciting and adventurous experience.
• Socialization: Yachting can be a great way to connect with others who share your passion for the water and boating.
• Health and Wellness: Yachting offers opportunities for exercise such as swimming, snorkeling and paddleboarding, which can promote physical and mental wellbeing.
• Nature Appreciation: Yachting allows for a unique perspective to appreciate the beauty of nature such as marine life and stunning sunsets.

If you are interested in taking up yachting, there are many websites and products available that can help you get started. Some popular resources include:

• Boatsetter: A platform for renting or chartering a yacht with a network of over 14,000 yachts worldwide.
• YachtWorld: A global resource for buying and selling yachts with over 100,000 listings.
• Cruising World: A magazine focused on yachting and cruising lifestyle that provides information on destinations, boats, gear and more.

In conclusion, model yachting is an exciting sport/hobby that combines your interest in recreation, art, and the outdoors. With a rich history and a variety of boats and competitions on offer; building and sailing a model yacht can be a great way for people of all ages to enjoy time in the great outdoors, learning new skills and meeting like-minded individuals. While it does require time, patience, and passion, the end result is a beautiful and functional model yacht that gives complete satisfaction and builds self-confidence.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing hobby or one that challenges your competitive spirit, model yachting covers it all. With a little bit of research, joining local clubs or attending competitions could be your first step towards the world of model navigation. Investing in high-quality equipment, building a model yacht from scratch, and sailing it on water can provide a lifetime of enjoyment, personal satisfaction, and memories that would last a lifetime. So why wait? Start sailing your way to a fun and fulfilling hobby today!

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The 3rd Saturday of each month. Mar-Nov.

M A RYLAND MODEL YACHT CLUB

Melford pond, bowie, maryland.

Radio control sail boating at its finest!

The Maryland Model Yacht Club is a fun group of enthusiastic sailors (both men and women of all ages!) from the Tri-state area. We actively race several classes of radio controlled sailboats and members range from novice to several national champions. We invite you to come join the fun.

The club is sanctioned by the amya (#205). , come on in and look around .

  Next Race Day of the Season 

#3 May 18th  

ODOM R2 May 4th

Ann o uncing the

2024 ODOM Region 2 Championship Regatta

May 4, 2024

We look forward to another challenging ODOM RCR and invite any AMYA Member with an ODOM to join us!

Announcing the

2024 Victoria Region 2 Championship Regatta

June 1 , 2024

We look forward to another challenging Victoria RCR and invite any AMYA Member with a Victoria to join us!

  All are welcome to come and race but non-member scores are not considered in club season standings.

 Where there are no strangers...       only friends you haven't met yet !

 Contact: [email protected]  

Maryland Model Yacht Club on Face Book Maryland Model Yacht Club on Google Groups

Our sister clubs in the area.

Richmond Model Yacht club

Northern Virginia Model Yacht club

Cumberland Valley Model Yacht club

Northern Maryland Model Yacht Club

Combined schedule for the local clubs

Visits since 11 Sept 2020

• MYA Districts
• MYA Ranking Lists

2024 DF95 ED Champion Skipper Event 1 Report and Results

2024 IOM Ranking 2 Report and Results

2024 IOM Ranking 1 Report and Results

Radio and free sailing in the uk.

Our sport can be split in to 2 disciplines, Radio Sailing and Free Sailing and although both are still popular it is Radio Sailing that can be most easily found on a lake or water near you.

Today’s yachts range from home built yachts whose owners get great pleasure from the building process, collectors and restorers who through their efforts keep the history and knowledge in our sport, to the top end competitive skippers who race their carbon fibre and kevlar boats at local, national and international level.

Whatever level you wish to be involved there are people who will share your passion and commitment.

Interested?

Why not check out the rest of our site and use the club list to find a club near to you, make yourself known and talk to a skipper, most are more than willing to discuss our sport and even let you have a go.

The Model Yachting Association (MYA) is the representative body for Radio and Free sailing in the UK and has been delegated responsibility for the administration of Radio & Free Sailing within the UK. We are affiliated to, and recognised by, the Royal Yachting Association  and the  International Radio Sailing Association (IRSA)  providing direct links to  World Sailing and enabling us to have influence on the rules governing our sport.

Held at Norwich Model Yacht Club 22 April 2024 On Saturday 22 April 20 Skippers…

IOM Ranking – 2 at Eastbourne & District MYC 14th April 2024 Thirty-nine sailors arrived…

IOM Ranking – 1 at Eastbourne & District MYC 13th April 2024 Forty one sailors…

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April 2024 Facebook (Meta) decided to make changes to their API preventing the display of Facebook Group feeds. At the moment there is no workaround available. Please visit MYA Downwind directly for latest news on Facebook .

Model Yachting

The back bay skippers.

Where Bridge Falls Walking Path see map

When Tuesdays & Thursdays  1:00 PM to 4:00 PM May – October

Cost FREE –everyone is welcome!

View Racing Schedule

Race Results

Current News

From early May through October, you can find the Back Bay Skippers racing radio-controlled model yachts every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon along the Cotton Valley Rail-Trail on Back Bay in Wolfeboro. This is a lively, competitive group of men, women, and children of all ages.

The Back Bay Skippers were established in 2008, with the assistance of the New Hampshire Boat Museum (NHBM) and the Laconia Model Yacht Club, to promote radio controlled sailing in the Wolfeboro area. Their mission is to build and sail a fleet of sailboats, while providing participants and spectators an avenue to enjoy this hobby.

Come watch the races, ask questions, and if you want to try racing a model sailboat yourself, they always have an extra one handy for you to use. Once you try your own hand at racing a model sailboat, you’re bound to get hooked!

Join the fun and build your own model yacht!  The Back Bay Skippers teach the model-yacht-building course at the New Hampshire Boat Museum each summer. Everything you need, except paint and radio kit (sold separately), will be supplied, and our model-building experts will guide you every step of the way. They know all the tricks to help you build a yacht you can be proud of!

Model Yacht Building Workshop

Whether you’re interested in watching or racing, the Back Bay Skippers are always happy for you to stop by. 

Whether model yachting to you is a sport or a hobby, you will be among over 3,000 people who share your enthusiasm for this growing industry.

–The American Model Yachting Association –

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Model Yachts: How to Design and Build Them

Editor’s Note This is the earliest comprehensive treatment of model yachting that we have encountered. It comes from the English journal Amateur Work , a Victorian periodical with articles on arts, crafts, and some truly frightening electric devices. The article is interesting, and typical for its age, in the way it combines rules of thumb with engineering calculation.

The little thirty inch boat it describes is also typical of the era, and could easily carry radio control gear. The cutter rig is well regarded for its flexibility, and you should arrange the sails so that all but the staysail and the main can be removed in heavy air. The hull shape accommodates either strip planking or a carved hull laid up bread and butter style on the buttocks. A handsome and environmentally friendly weighted keel can be made from a brass or copper bar rather than cast lead. A traditional paint scheme would be bronze or green below the water line and black above.

Nothing is known of Arthur Hide, the author, except that he clearly was an expert.

Earl Boebert

Part I: Designing — Sheer Plan — Half-Breadth Plan — Body Plan — Centres of Gravity and Displacement

By way of preface to those readers of Amateur Work who can’t think what people can see in such “childish amusement,” I will just say, what, no doubt, they have seen pasted about in a good many streets, ”Try it” and if their first model is one that they can pit against existing ones with success, and if they can make her go where they will the first time she is put into the water, I will say they are right, it is a childish amusement; but until that is done, I must still hold on to my opinion, that model building and sailing is as scientific and amusing a hobby, combining both in and out- door pleasure, as can be found. “So, there,” as the tender sex have it. And now to work. I shall take it for granted that you know how to make a mechanical drawing, since it has been explained in this magazine, for before you can attempt any- thing in models you must draw them out.

There are three plans of a model to be drawn out. Firstly, the sheer plan; this represents a view of the boat when looking at it directly from the side, as shown in Fig. 1. Then there is the half-breadth plan, which is a view of the half of the model (Fig. 2), looking at it from underneath. And, thirdly, comes the body plan (Fig. 3), which is the view from the front on the left half of the plan, and the view from behind the model on the right half.

We must begin with the sheer plan. The shape of this depends in a great measure upon taste, but for the first model it would be better to keep to the illustration shown here. Having selected a sheet of paper, to take the full size of the model if possible, (if not you will have to draw to scale), and glued or pinned it on the board, draw at about 6 inches from the top a line right across the paper, and draw it pretty heavily, for you must work all other lines from this one. Mark this on each end L. W. L., which means load water line, and is to rep- resent the surface of the water, when the model, with all her rigging, and quite complete in fact, is stationary in the water. But, before going any further, you must determine upon the dimensions your yacht is to be. A very good size is 2 feet 6 inches over all that is to say — from stem to end of counter, and, as many model yacht clubs adhere to this size, I should, I think, follow their example. The beam, or breadth, should be about one fourth of the length. Fancy dictates here in a very great measure, as it does in a great many things in model yacht building. Some like a broad beam and some a narrow beam; but experiencia docet applies here very well, and as most probably you are without experiencia , keep to the “4 to 1” dimensions. I should therefore make her 7 inch beam, so as to keep to an even figure. Now for the depth below the water line, take about one-seventh of the length, that will make it 4 inches deep. This is merely to the bottom of the wooden part of your model, and does not include the lead keel, which will come on afterwards. For the height out of water you must study circumstances a little. You see, to make a boat look pretty, there is always a certain amount of what is called “sheer” given her—that is to say, a certain curve beginning high at the bow, falling towards the centre, and then rising again at the stern. Therefore you must have a fixed dimension for your height above water at the stem and draw in your sheer according to fancy afterwards. Then again too high a stem looks bad, and moreover is apt to hold the wind and retard the boat’s speed, whereas too low a stem does not afford sufficient support to her if she has a press of canvas on. I think about 3 inches for a 2 feet 6 inches model is very fair, and the sheer you must determine yourself, or take it from the diagram here. Now you may begin drawing out in earnest. Parallel to your load water line draw 4 lines below each other, each 1 inch apart from the other. The lower line will then represent the bottom of the keel, 4 inches below the waterline. Now draw three lines above the load waterline, also 1 inch apart. The top line would then represent the deck line if the deck were without sheer, but now simply represents the 3 inches at the bow.

These lines will represent so many planes cutting the boat parallel to the surface of the water.

The next thing to draw in is the stem, or bow; keep this about a couple of inches from the edge of your paper, and never mind, for the present, the curve at the foot. Simply draw a straight line vertical to the load water line. Now, at distances of 3 inches, draw lines parallel to the bow—that is, vertical to the load water line, to the extent of 30 inches, which will give you eleven lines, and ten spaces of 3 inches each, which will be the exact length of your model. The counter, or over- hanging part, should be about 3 inches, so draw that in to your own fancy, and consult your fancy also on the “rake,” or slope of the stern- post, which should have more or less rake to allow the rudder to swing easily, of which more hereafter.

The body plan is drawn on the extended horizontal lines of the sheer plan, and the half-breadth plan on the extended vertical lines of the same.

Now, there is one part of a ship, looking at her endways, which is larger than any other part, and, past which no other part of the vessel is visible: this is termed the “midship section,” and is represented by the outside lines in the body plan. We intend making the midship section on the line 5, which will be rather abaft the centre of the load water line. Some builders prefer a long “entrance,” which necessitates having the midship section far back; while others like a short “entrance” and a long “run,” which means hav- ing the midship section well forward, so that the bow lines converge at a greater angle than the stern lines. Now draw a centre line, XY, on the half breadth plan, and on 5 mark off from XY 3 1/2 inches, which is the half- breadth of your vessel. Above XY draw a line parallel to it, and at a distance of 1/4 inch, to represent the half-breadth of the keel, and then with a thin spline or batten draw in the deck line on the half-breadth plan to pass through the dot on 5, and fall nicely into the keel line in front, and rounded at the stern for the counter. You had, for the present, better keep as near as possible to the diagram shown here; but when you get a little more accustomed to drawing in these curves you will be able to judge for yourself if a line is what, in shipbuilding parlance, they call “pretty.” Leave the half- breadth plan for a’ little while, and on the body plan draw a vertical centre line, O O, and on each side of it draw lines at 1/4 in. distant, and parallel to it, to represent the keel. One part of this body plan, you must remember, is the forepart of the vessel, and the other half the after part. Now on the load water line, still in the body plan, on each side of the centre line mark off 3 1/2 inches, which is half the beam, and, starting from this point, draw in by hand a curve somewhat similar to the one in the diagram, and see that there are no “lumps” in it, and that it falls nicely into the straight line of the keel at the bottom. Having rubbed this out and put it in again several times till satisfactory, rub it nearly out once more, and put in definitely with curves, so that you have a definite spot where the curve crosses each horizon- tal section. Do this on each side of the centre line O O. Go back again to the half-breadth plan, and with your dividers mark off on 5 from XY the places where the midship section, which you have just drawn in, cuts each of the horizontal sections—that is to say, the distances from O O to C, to E, to G, to K, to M, and to P.Through these points, or rather through the point G firstly (which is the load waterline), draw a curve to the bow, and to line 9, taking care to make it fall nicely into the straight of the stem and stern posts, the thicknesses of which are represented by the line above XY. You must be particularly careful to draw this curve in nicely since all the other lines are worked from it, and let me impress on you that india-rubber is, in the present state of the market, a cheap article, therefore you need not be afraid of wasting it by rubbing the line out again, if not to your fancy. There must be no “lumps” in the curve, and no sudden rise or fall; it must all be gradual. To find out if the line is “fair,” you need only look along it, with your eye nearly on a level with the paper, and any little inaccuracies will at once become perceptible. Having “faired” this to your satisfaction, mark off from O O (in the body plan), on the line G (the load water line), the respective distances from X Y (in the half-breadth plan), to the points where the curve, which you have just drawn in, cuts the lines 4, 3, 2, 1. Treat the after part of the load water line in the same manner, but mark it off on the right-hand side of the body plan.

Now draw in the other curves in the half-breadth plan through the points already marked on 5, trying to keep them as little hollow as possible. These lines you must simply guess at to begin with, but after a little practice your eye will tell you very nearly where to draw them in. After this is done, mark off from O O on C, E, G, K, M, and P, the distances from X Y, along 4, to where the curves C, E, G, K, M, and P, respectively cross 4. Through the points thus obtained draw a curve, and if the curve thus drawn falls in nicely, with- out lumps or kinks, your lines in the half-breadth plan will be pretty nearly right. Treat the lines 3, 2, 1, on to the left-hand side of the body plan, and 6, 7, 8, 9, on to the right-hand side, in the same way, and if each curve comes in nicely your lines will be right; if they do not fall in well, you will have to alter the “waterlines,” as they are termed, in the half-breadth plan, until the body lines can be faired easily.

It will, I am sure, entail a good deal of rubbing out and putting in again, before your lines will come right, but do not be afraid of that, since it makes your work much easier when you come to the wood-working part of the business, and do not say to yourself, “Oh! bother it, I can’t get that right on the drawing, but it will come in all square in the wood.” It is a fallacy, I can assure you; you would never have been more mistaken than when you said that. If your drawing is not correct, your wood-work cannot be correct, and therefore you will be guessing at things all through the job, instead of having everything down on paper in a respectable manner. So put that notion out of your head, and say it must come right in the drawing, and when it is right you will be a great deal more satisfied with yourself, I am sure.

You have not yet, by the bye, drawn in on the body plan, the sheer, therefore measure off the heights from the load water line to the sheer in the sheer plan on the various lines, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc., and mark them off on their corresponding lines in the body plan, and the distances from O O to 1, 2, 3, etc.; you will take, of course, from X Y, in the half-breadth plan, to the deck line along 1, 2, 3, etc., there. Having joined the points thus obtained with a nice curve, I think your drawing is finished. The keel you can only put in afterwards, when you know the weight of lead your boat will carry, which will be more or less, according as you have made your lines “fuller” or “finer.”

In the next paper, then, I shall begin with the building of the model; but before we come to that, a few words on the shape of models would not be out of place. Models must be considered as racing yachts, and, therefore, unlike merchant vessels, carrying power, or rather “cargo space,” is no object. The great thing in models is to get your lines as nice as possible, and, to my own idea, the less hollow a line the better it is. Then again, as I said before, some like the midship section for- ward of the half-length of the boat, while others, myself included, prefer it abaft.

It appears to me that, considering a vessel is nothing more or less than a wedge driven through the water, the smaller angle that wedge has the easier it will separate the particles of water with a given driving power; and then, again, as water will close up again more easily than it will be separated, so the quicker the lines in the stern con- verge, the better, to a certain extent. In both these, as in every other case, excess is not meant, and you must, therefore, not make too long an “entrance” or too short a “run.”

With regard to the proportion of beam to length, there are one or two points to be considered before deciding this matter. Firstly, beam gives a vessel greater carrying power, and, to a certain extent, greater “stability” (by stability is meant the power a vessel has of resisting any force which tends to press it over on its side, when in the water, of course) —or, I should rather say, greater “stiffness.” A broad and shallow vessel is “stiffer” up to a certain angle of inclination than a narrow and deep boat, but press both over to that angle and you will find that past that point the broad vessel will perhaps capsize easily, whereas it will be impossible to capsize the narrow but deep one, since she will always right herself again. Now this is easily explained when you know that there are two very important points, or “centres,” in a ship: the one known as the “centre of displacement,” which is in reality the centre of gravity of the mass of water which the ship “dis- places,” or takes the place of, when she is put into the water i and the other the “centre of gravity” of the ship itself. When a ship heels over you can readily see that her centre of displacement will shift, because the shape of the water she displaces alters as her own shape differs under water, according to the various angles of inclination. Therefore in a shallow ship, where the centres of gravity and displacement are close together, the centre of displacement has to shift very little to cause the vessel to capsize; but in a deep boat it has to shift a great deal, since the two centres are further apart. So, then, in a model you must com- bine the qualities of a broad vessel and a deep one; but take care not to get her too broad, because the lines will not be fine enough in that case, nor must she be too deep, since the more surface a boat has in the water the greater is the resistance caused by the friction of the water on her sides to her headway.

I am afraid space will not permit me to say more about designing, but practice will assist you more than anything else, and if you can reason a few points out for yourself, so much the better. About the centres I shall have more to say further on, when we come to building.

Part II  The Hull — Materials — “Dug Out” Mode of Building — Block — Hollowing Out Sections — Layer Method — Adjustment of Pieces– Marking Off Water Lines — Roughing Out — Gluing Layers — Deck — Keel >>

Policies and Procedures

• Classes administrated by a Class Secretary:  If no Class Association (CA) has been formed, a Class Secretary (CS) will be appointed by the President. Upon the appointment of the Class Secretary the affairs of the Class will then be under the CS jurisdiction until such time as a Class Association is recognized.
• Until such time as a Class Association is formed:
• The appointed Class Secretary shall serve until a nomination of a candidate(s) and an election is held for a Class Secretary, or the formation of the Class as a CA.
• The Class Secretary will perform the same duties as a CA officer, according to the same principles as set out for CA’s.
• The AMYA Executive Secretary will accept ballot motions and nominations, and will administer elections for the Class
• Unless he specifically declines to stand for election, an appointed Class Secretary shall be a candidate for election in the next AMYA ballot cycle.   
• Upon the formation of a Class Association, the current appointed or elected Class Secretary shall be replaced by the officer of the Class Association elected by the Membership.
•  If the Class is administered by a Class Secretary, only those active AMYA members who are owners of yachts registered in the Class may:
• Submit motions regarding Class Rules.
• Submit nominations for Secretary of that Class.
• Vote on these or other matters affecting the Class.
• Classes Administrated by a Class Association:  It is recommended that a Class Association (CA) be formed to administer the Class.
• A proposal to form a Class Association shall be made by a Class Member, and submitted to the Executive Secretary, with a second by another Class Member.  A vote of the Class Association of the AMYA shall be administered in the next available AMYA ballot, and certified by the Executive Secretary.
• If a majority of the votes cast in favor and all other requirements are met (see 6.6), the AMYA shall sanction the Class Association.
• The current registered owners immediately become members of the new Class Association and the Class Secretary shall be retained until a CA officer is nominated and elected.
• In order to be sanctioned by the AMYA a CA shall:
• Submit a copy of its Constitution, Bylaws and/or other governing documents to the Executive Secretary for approval. These documents must include a declaration that the CA will abide by all applicable provisions of the AMYA Constitution and Bylaws.
• CA Bylaws shall include a clear statement of the process and timetable by which its members may elect or re-elect its officers and submit proposals for changes to Bylaws and Class Rules and determine the outcome by ballot of CA members. Any such proposals submitted to member ballot shall include a clear statement of the effective date of the change(s) if approved.
• Have a requirement that all balloting be on a one-owner-one-vote basis.
• Submit the names of the CA’s officers and/or directors (minimum 3).
• Have requirements that the officers and directors of the CA be current AMYA members.
• Submit a copy of the Class Rules.
• Have a restriction that only AMYA members registered in the Class may vote on changes to Class Rules.
• Submit a roster of at least twenty (20) current AMYA members holding yacht registrations in the Class.
• CA Approval: the Executive Board shall review the CA proposed Class Rules and certify that the proposed Class is precisely defined, is unique and differs significantly from any other Class currently recognized by the AMYA.
• A CA will handle yacht registrations and transfers and collect the required fees for these services. These fees may be retained by the CA to defray administrative expenses.
• The CA shall provide an accounting of Class funds and expenditures between November 1 and December 1 of each year to be formatted for publication in the official publication of the AMYA.
• The CA shall maintain a roster of registered yachts and owners and endeavor to synchronize the data for AMYA members with the AMYA database.
•  Only owners of the Class Association may:  
•    Hold a position as officer or director of the Class Association.
•   Vote on changes to the Class Rules.
• Where a Class Association exists changes to its Constitution, Bylaws. and/or Class Rules must be approved by that Association according to its own Constitution and Bylaws.
• Whenever a CA issues a revision to one of its governing documents it shall promptly submit copy to the AMYA Executive Secretary for review and archival.
• Any CA sanctioned by the AMYA shall be the official contact for International Class Associations established under authority of the organization that controls international radio sailing.
• A CA may be de-sanctioned by a simple majority vote of the AMYA Board of Directors for failure to comply with the applicable provisions of the AMYA Constitution and Bylaws or of the provisions of section 3 above.
• It shall be the duty of the Class Secretary or Class Association officer to ensure that a National Championship Regatta is held annually. Regional Championship Regattas may also be held annually or at other regular intervals provided sufficient numbers of registered yachts are able to participate. Championship regattas shall be run strictly according to racing rules and regatta procedures established by the AMYA.
•  The use of ballast materials denser than lead is prohibited in the construction of any AMYA registered yacht, unless specifically permitted by the applicable Class specification.
• No changes in the Class Rules of any sanctioned Class of yachts shall be implemented except by ballot.
•  Class Rules for yacht Classes may only be changed by balloting those AMYA members owning yachts registered in that Class.
• The Class Secretary or Class Association officer shall present motions to the Class. Motions may be presented in three ways:   1) Published in  Model Yachting   2) Sent directly to all Class members   3) Sent to Clubs for distribution. Changes will be accepted by a simple majority of the votes cast, certified by the Executive Secretary, or if a Class Association, by the CA officer.