Graham Williamson elected as new UK Wayfarer Class Chair

by UKWA 18 Mar 08:30 GMT

At their recent AGM, the UK Wayfarer Class confirmed the election of Graham Williamson as their new Chairman.

Graham, and his wife Judith, have sailed a Wayfarer for a number of years, enjoying taking part in the wide range of racing and cruising activities offered by the class in Britain and Ireland, and on the Continent.

Ian Proctor's innovative design was first launched seventy years ago, and quickly established legendary status when used for some epic, adventurous and truly bonkers voyages across the North Sea to Iceland, and also to cruise the Dutch and German coasts and canals. The boat was an instant hit with sailing schools and scouts as a teaching boat, and very many dinghy sailors then and now have had their first sailing experience in a Wayfarer.

Large and competitive racing fleets formed in the UK and Europe, and a smaller but loyal following grew in North America.

When the UK dinghy scene experienced the seismic influx of manufacturer's one designs, and the associated interest in asymmetric spinnaker sailing, the Wayfarer racing scene took a hit along with many other 'traditional' classes, but a very strong cruising fleet remained.

In the early 2000's, the rights to the boat were acquired by Hartley Boats, and Phil Morrison was called upon to breath on and update the boat. Retaining the original hull form, the refresh gave the Wayfarer a new deck and internal layout with a modern look. The new hulls were stiff, fast and seaworthy, and the class experienced a healthy revival in interest.

For 2026, the UKWA has organized a full programme of racing events and cruising rallies, to which all members are very welcome. If you want to know more about the sailing on offer, or find yourself a new or pre-loved Wayfarer, just visit wayfarer.org.uk.