Dinghy Racing Firefly Class

Firefly Class

This iconic dinghy has been a familiar site on the Harbour since Fireflies number 1, 2, 3 and 4 arrived here in 1946. At its peak, the class attracted fleets of up to 50 boats racing for the revered 'Dell Quay Quart' and 'Burnard Trophy' before losing favour to faster plastic boats in the 80's and 90's. The Firefly has since developed something of a cult following and still attracts good fleets at its National Championships and top of the country's top sailors. It is testament to its forgiving design and ability to hold a broad weight range that the Firefly is still the designated class for Independent Schools, University Team Racing and the World Team Racing Championships.

After a 20-year absence, the first Firefly returned to Dell Quay in April of 2019. Having quickly proven to be competitive, ideally suited to Dell Quays sailing area and perfect for guiding juniors through their crewing apprenticeship, our newest fleet quickly gathered pace. Led by a number of local families, we now have something of an infestation, with 18 boats, top class racing, family cruising and child friendly events.

Although our racing fleet includes a number of top sailors (both current and ex International 14 World Champions as well as others who have raced nationally and internationally), we have a strong focus on bringing beginners and in particular juniors into the sport, with our youngest racing crew to date aged just 4.

The Firefly is a great, social fleet to join, whether you are looking for good quality fleet racing, are returning to the sport, looking to get the kids involved or just starting out yourself. Boats are available in wood from £50 for a project, £500 for a club racer and up to £2000 for something akin to a piece of furniture. Plastic boats start at around £1000 and a few composite (plastic hull, wood deck) are in existence.

The Firefly is an adopted class at Dell Quay Sailing Club.

If you are interested in joining us, want help finding a boat or are wondering how to get into Dinghy Racing, please don't hesitate to get in touch with the Firefly Class Captain

   Dell Quay Fireflys Insta account

   FireFly Association website