The Merlin Rocket is a development class where only a few hull dimensions are controlled, offering freedom to designers to develop their best hull shapes. The Merlin Rocket has been adopted by the RYA as a National Class. Refined over 70 years of development, the Merlin Rocket is now an extremely modern class providing excellent racing throughout the UK with a very active class association.
Merlin Rocket stats
Connect with the class |
Merlin Rocket Class website
Facebook page
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Merlin Rocket designer |
Various since 1947 |
Hull material |
FRP or Wood (clinker form) |
Length |
Max 4.27m |
Beam |
Max 2.18m |
Number of crew |
2 |
Sail area |
Approx 10m sq (varies) |
Rig |
Mainsail, headsail and symmetric spinnaker |
Class status |
RYA National Class |


Merlin Rocket Class contacts
Chair: Martin Smith
Secretary: Chris Kilsby
Technical Officers: Dan Alsop
Rules & Measurement
Current Class Rules
Merlin Rocket Measurement Form
How to obtain a Measurement Certificate
Find a Measurer
Merlin Rocket National Champions
2018 Lyme Regis SC Christian Birrell & Sam Brearey (Merlin Rocket 3788)
2017 Plas Heli Nick Craig & Alan Roberts (Merlin Rocket 3776)
2016 Penzance SC Roger Gilbert & James Stewart (Merlin Rocket 3722)
2015 Whitstable YC Ben Saxton & George Yeoman (Merlin Rocket 3742)
2014 Looe SC Stuart Bithell & Tom Pygall (Merlin Rocket 3742)
2013 Tenby SC Nick Craig & Alan Roberts (Merlin Rocket 3749)
2012 Lyme Regis SC Stuart Bithell & Christian Birrell (Merlin Rocket 3742)
2011 Hayling Island SC Andy Davis & Tom Pygall (Merlin Rocket 3684)
2010 Penzance SC Stuart Bithell & Christian Birrell (Merlin Rocket 3699)
2009 Whitstable YC Glen Truswell & Olly Turner (Merlin Rocket 3626)
2008 Looe SC Roger Gilbert & James Stewart (Merlin Rocket 3656)
Merlin Rocket builders
Winder Boats, Kensington Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 1PW. Tel: 01535 604980. Email: sarah@winderboats.com. Website: www.winderboats.com.