The IMOCA ("Open 60"), is a 60ft development class monohull sailing yacht administered by the International Monohull Open Class Association (IMOCA).[1] The class pinnacle event are single or two person ocean races, such as the Route du Rhum and the Vendée Globe and this has been intimately linked to design development within the class.
Development | |
---|---|
Designer | Various including Farr Yacht Design Finot-Conq Joubert-Nivelt Juan Kouyoumdjian Marc Lombard Owen-Clarke Verdier-VPLP |
Year | 1991 Onwards |
No. built | +100 |
Design | Open |
Builder(s) | Various including Cookson Boats CDK Technologies Green Marine JMV Industries Marc Pinta Multiplast Persico |
Crew | Typically 1 or 2 |
Boat | |
Crew | Typically 1 or 2 |
Hull | |
Type | Monohull |
Construction | Typically Carbon Fibre Composite |
LOH | 18 m (60 ft) |
Hull appendages | |
Keel/board type | Canting |
Rig | |
Rig type | Sloop |
This class is of "open" design, this means the boat is measurement controlled and therefore designers have freedom within the rules.[2]
Design restrictions include the length (between 59 and 60 feet (18 m)) and maximum draft (4.5 metres (15 ft)). There are no explicit restrictions on beam, mast height or sail area although these are all indirectly controlled by flotation and self-righting capability requirements. The rules also tackle safety and survival design and equipment.
This class is recognised by World Sailing.[3]
These races are open to, but not necessarily limited to this class.