The 505 is a double-handed, high performance sailing dinghy. It utilizes a trapeze for the crew, and a vast spinnaker sail. The craft is 5.05 meters in length, has a beam of 1.88 meters, and weighs 127.4 kilograms fully equipped. Upwind sail area is 16 square meters, and the 505 puts out 45 square meters of sail going downwind. Planning occurs at 10 knots, and the craft responds dramatically to additional increases in the wind. The 505 is one of the most capable boats found for running in winds above 20 knots.
This one design boat was advanced by the French Yachting Association to establish a new racing class in 1954. One design is meant to insure the best sailor and not the best boat will win in sailing competition. This sailing dinghy was designed by Britain's John Westell and there have been no changes in the hull shape or sailplan since its beginning. 505 sailors are free to choose their own rigging, sails, and centerboard.
505's race in 18+ countries across the world. Competitive crew weight does not normally exceed 150 kilograms, making the class friendly to all genders. Hulls can be built with fiberglass/polyester, Kevlar/epoxy, and prepreg carbon fiber composite construction systems.
505 enthusiasts have shunned entry of the class into the arena of Olympic sailing. Hulls produced by top manufacturers can be competitive for 20 years. A 505 sailor can mount a competitive race campaign with a used boat and a total investment of less than $15,000 dollars. 505 sailors fear entry of the class in Olympic competition will escalate costs and technology used in the boats, forcing many from being able to participate in this racing class.
LiveSailDie has some good video and still shots of 505's in action. 505 sailors are great proponents of the craft and are generally willing to take potential converts for a ride. As 505'ers say, "Give a call. Take a ride. Never go slow again."
