Folkboat Story: From Cult to Classic -- The Renaissance of a Legend

Dieter Lobiner details the history of the Nordic Folkboat, sketching its journey from its origins in 1930s Sweden to modern regattas which showcase its performance under trying conditions and its beautiful, sea-kindly and minimalistic design. Now in paperback, this is a modern classic detailing the history of the Nordic Folkboat. Designed during the early years of World War II, the 25-foot Folkboat has gone from cult to classic, maintaining a devoted following.Boats of all ages are still being sailed today. The Folkboat has also inspired spin-offs, such as the Contessa 26 which was sailed around the world by Tania Aebi who wrote the Foreword for this latest edition. Loibner writes that the Spartan 25-foot Folkboat epitomizes the enduring ''less is more'' philosophy, which is, perhaps, an important metaphor for these times. Designed by committee in Scandinavia in the 1940s, the Nordic Folkboat was intended to bring yacht racing to the masses; Loibner explores the vitalility and popularity of the design. Loibner takes us across the world in easy strides--from the Scandinavian base to the San Francisco enclave; from racing to cruising and with a charming chapter he calls the Lunatic Fringe. This modern classic of small boat literature details the history of the Nordic Folkboat--a class that enjoys remarkable popularity in some of the world''s most beautiful and challenging sailing waters. A clinker design that sails equally fast and well whether it is made from wood or fiberglass, the Nordic Folkboat has been around for 60 years. It has stood the test of time as its minimalism, robustness and sea kindliness have proved resistant to radical design modifications. Loibner guides us through all the layers of the Folkboat community, from those who sail competitively in the many Folkboat regattas worldwide, to the devoted following of recreational sailors who appreciate the sturdiness of the design when out cruising with family and friends, to what he refers to as the "Lunatic Fringe." Any reader who has spent a thrilling afternoon on the dancing prow of a small boat will appreciate the insights and journey of The Folkboat Story.

• | Author: Dieter Loibner
• | Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield
• | Publication Date: Oct 17, 2008
• | Number of Pages:
• | Language:
• | Binding: Paperback / softback
• | ISBN-13: 9781574092745
• | ISBN-10: 157409274X