Knarr 30

Description

The Knarr (also known as the Knarr 30 in some references) is a classic Norwegian one-design keelboat designed by Erling Kristoffersen in 1943 during the German occupation of Norway. The first production boat was delivered in 1946 by builder Einer Iversen (Børresen Bådebyggeri later became a primary builder). It was named after the Norse trading ships called knarr and was commissioned as a replacement for the Nordic Folkboat (considered ugly by some Norwegians), with a focus on racing performance and escape potential if needed. The class spread to Denmark, Germany, and especially San Francisco Bay (introduced in 1960 by Knud Wibroe, with the International Knarr Championship starting in 1969 on the Bay as its only U.S. home). Fiberglass construction was introduced in 1974, improving durability while preserving the wooden aesthetic and lines. It's a fractional sloop with a fin keel, built in wood (mahogany/oak) or fiberglass, known for being stout, underrigged (to suit San Francisco Bay's strong winds), and excellent for Corinthian racing with a vibrant social community. The class thrives in Norway, Denmark, and San Francisco Bay, with active fleets and international championships. Approximately 450–500 hulls have been built over the decades.