MERLIN MROA MEASUREMENT 20/02

MROA Vintage section have requested that all Vintage boats be remeasured and new Certificates obtained.

Vintage and Classic Fleet Measurement Certificates

Over the past 25 years, particularly during the last 15 years, we have seen a significant increase in competitive racing within the Vintage and Classic Fleets. Owners have restored boats, added carbon masts, booms and spinnaker poles, and changed sail plans, all of which has been fantastic for the Class.

However, many owners have not updated their measurement certificates to reflect these changes and confirm that their boats remain compliant with the Class Rules.

To assess the situation, we carried out a casual and informative inspection of the boats competing in the River Championships at Bourne End Week 2026. All but one or two had minor compliance issues. Most related to matters that could be rectified easily, such as missing black or white bands on spars, or buoyancy bags being secured with only two straps rather than the required three.

We therefore propose holding organised boat inspection days over the coming months, ahead of the River Championships at UTSC at the end of May 2027. These would take place at Tamesis, Upper Thames, Ranelagh and Trent Valley Sailing Clubs, giving owners an opportunity to have their boats checked and to rectify any issues before the Championships, where measurement certificates will be checked for compliance.

The first inspection days would be held at Tamesis Club, as its Merlin fleet races throughout the winter, unlike many other clubs where Vintage and Classic Merlins are stored over that period. Tamesis is also an excellent location, with very good facilities for carrying out the checks.

Proposed Tamesis dates

- Friday 12 and Saturday 13 February 2027

- Friday 19 and Saturday 20 February 2027

To make the journey worthwhile for the two measurers, inspections would be carried out over two consecutive days.

Standard measurer's charges

- New boat measurement: £250

- Reweighing: £50

- Sail measurement: £15 per sail or £40 for a full suit

- Rig measurement and new measurement form: £100

- Travel expenses: approximately 50p per mile

The MROA have the 2027 River Championships at Bourne End in mind, where any competing boats will be expected to produce an up to date certificate.

Any questions to the Class Captain or RCS, thanks.

Last updated 4:09pm on 2 November 2026