Global Challenge - Specifications of The Challenge 72 One-design

Specifications of The Challenge 72 One-design

The current 12-strong race fleet of Challenge 72-footers was developed from the Challenge 67s and was specifically designed to be strong, safe and seaworthy in even the worst conditions and to be self-sufficient for long periods at sea, with enough fuel and water to take their crews safely to a distant port. The yachts were also designed to be relatively easy to sail and handled by crews who are not professional.

Designed by Rob Humphreys, the identical 72-foot (22 m) steel ocean racing yachts were built by Devonport Yachts in the UK by a new method using a unique flat-pack yacht assembly kit of precision cut laser steel panels.

Ten of the twelve yachts were built by Devonport, UK, the other two by Kim's Yacht Company in China.

• Length overall: 72 ft (22m)
• Length of waterline: 61 ft (19m)
• Air draught: 95 ft (29m)
• Draught full load: 10 ft (3.05m)
• Displacement (half load): 40 tonnes
• Ballast: 12.5 tonnes
• Sail area (windward): 2,825 sq ft (262.5 m2)
• Sail area (downwind): 4,020 sq ft (373 m2)
• Water capacity: 390 gal (1,775 lt)
• Fuel capacity: 475 gal (2,150 lt)
• Hull: 50A mild steel
• Deck: Stainless steel