About the Snipe Class

In 2006 the Snipe celebrated 75 years of being one of the top, one- design, international, racing sail boats. Designed in 1931, the Snipe has consistently been one of the top two person sailboat racing dinghies in the USA and throughout the World.

Over this period many boat designs and classes have come and gone, but the Snipe and the Snipe Class has always been there to offer Serious Sailing, Serious Fun�.

Over the years it''s been a training boat for many of the World Class and Olympic sailors. When they want lots of boat time and racing that places a premium on strategy and tactics they come to the Snipe. It''s a great boat to introduce youth to the art of rigging and tuning, which is so important in most other boats after the Opti and 420. On the local level families and multiple generations of families have made Snipe sailing at their local club an integral part of their lives. It has been their Family recreation, together, for a life time. Read More About the History of the Snipe Class...

In the USA, Snipe sailing is organized and managed by SCIRA USA. Our organization is dedicated to delivering to its members services and an organizational structure which contributes to an enjoyable one design sailboat racing experience in which members can have an enjoyable experience, learn and enhance their sailing skills.

National and International Competitions

The US Snipe Class has numerous National Championships held throughout the year. These include our regular Nationals, Jr. Nationals, Masters Nationals, and Women''s Nationals. All events are open. Click here for more information. (.pdf)

The Snipe is also widely sailed around the globe. Both qualifying and open events are offered throughout Europe, South America, and Asia. Click here for more information. (.pdf)

About the Boat

The Snipe is a 15 1/2 foot, 2 person, one design racing dingy which has delivered an enjoyable sailing experience and outstanding long term value for its owners for 75 years. Designed in 1931 by William Crosby as a smaller, easily trailerable sailboat which can be rigged and launched in a minimum of time, the Snipe has evolved into a moden tactical dingy which is enjoyed by a broad spectrum of recreational racing sailors, ranging from the entry level novice sailor to the Olympic champion. Across this spectrum of experience is one constant, enjoyable family recreation together for a lifetime.

The Snipe can effectively be sailed by people of all ages, skill and sizes. Many families start sailing the Snipe when their families are young, and make Snipe sailing an integral part of their life. You will frequently see a grandfather sailing with his grandchild, a husband with his wife, a wife with her husband, a parent with their child, or an all junior family team. The environment is excellent for raising a family, engaging in healthy competitive competition together as a family for an entire generation, or more.

The experience is best summed up in our theme, Serious Sailing, Serious Fun�, life time family recreation together for everyone.

Additional Links

Snipe Personalities
Brief History of the Snipe Class