Get Started - International 49er Class Association

The 49er is one of the most exciting and demanding skiff classes in the world. Whether you’re stepping up from another high-performance boat or aiming to race internationally, this page will guide you through everything you need to know to get started.

1. Become a 49er Class Member

Joining the class is the first step into the 49er community.

As a class member, you’ll gain access to:

Class news and updates
Event information and notices
Technical updates and class rules
A global network of sailors, coaches, and teams

👉 Sign up to become a member:

2. Join the Community

The 49er class is built around a strong and supportive community. One of the best ways to get started is simply to connect with other sailors.

Facebook Forums

Our Facebook groups are the go-to place for:

Asking beginner questions
Finding second-hand boats and equipment
Getting tuning advice
Connecting with teams and events

👉 Join the official 49er Facebook forum

Social Media

Follow the class on social media to stay inspired and informed:

Race highlights and photos
News from events around the world
Class announcements and updates

👉 Follow us on our social channels:

Discord Group

Ask the class manager Ben@porttackracing.com for an invite.

3. Get a Boat

Buying a Second-Hand 49er

Most sailors start with a second-hand boat — and there are plenty available worldwide.

A second-hand boat is:

More affordable
Perfect for learning and training
Often sold with useful spare parts

The best places to look:

Buy and Sell Facebook Group
Ask on the Facebook forums
Contact local fleets or class representatives

Starting with a 49erFX

If you’re lighter weight, still young, or coming into the class from youth or skiff sailing, we strongly recommend starting with a 49erFX.

The 49erFX:

Is easier to handle at lighter combined crew weights
Allows you to build confidence and skills quickly
Gives you access to the FX Open Circuit, where you can get real racing experience in a competitive but welcoming fleet

Many sailors begin their journey in the FX before moving on — or continue racing FX long-term. It’s an excellent way to develop boat handling, teamwork, and race skills while fully integrating into the class.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for advice — experienced sailors are usually happy to help you find the right boat.

4. What You Need to Go Sailing

To sail a 49er, you’ll need the following core equipment:

Boat & Rig

49er or 49erFX hull
Mast
Boom
Spinnaker pole / bowsprit

Sails

Mainsail
Jib
Spinnaker

Foils & Hardware

Daggerboard
Rudder and tiller extension
Trapeze system
Control lines and fittings

Personal Equipment

Trapeze harness
Helmet (optional)
Buoyancy aid

Wetsuit and more:

a) 3mm base layer farmer john wetsuit + rash guard

b) add warmer tops for colder conditions (3mm full sleeve top and maybe also a spray top)

c) if it’s hot, add a rash guard to long john wetsuit(1mm)

d) if it’s cold, add a ‘steamer wetsuit’ – 5-6mm full sleeve or drysuit

e) boots, 3mm for typical conditions, good grip. Thicker for cold weather.

f) gloves – the fishermans gloves with good grip and feel, typically with finger ends cut off

If you’re unsure about anything, ask on the forum or talk to sailors at your local fleet.

5. Setting up

Before heading on the water, we strongly recommend reading the official 49er class tuning guide.

The tuning guide will help you:

Set up your boat correctly from day one
Understand mast rake, rig tension, and control systems
Find reliable base settings for different wind ranges
Avoid common setup mistakes that slow progress

The guide is used by sailors at every level — from first-time 49er teams to top international campaigns — and is an essential reference as you develop.

👉 Read the 49er Tuning Guide
https://49er.org/class-info-2/tuning/

A solid setup makes learning faster, sailing safer, and racing more enjoyable.