A-Raters Then and Now
The Thames A-Rater is one of the most distinctive and beautiful racing dinghies ever built — and, at over 100 years old, it’s still astonishing sailors today with its speed and elegance.
From their Edwardian origins to their place in modern river racing, A-Raters are a living link between tradition and innovation.
What Is a Thames A-Rater?
A-Raters were originally designed in the late 19th century for racing on the River Thames. Their long hulls, towering rigs, and narrow beams were tailor-made for flat water and light winds, making them the perfect boat for river competition.
Despite their heritage, they are not slow. A modern A-Rater in the right conditions will outrun many contemporary boats, especially on a reach.
Then – A Touch of Edwardian Flair
Back in the early 1900s, A-Raters were hand-built in wood, their rigs taller than almost anything else on the water. They were manned by crews in blazers and straw hats, slicing silently along the Thames.
They represented the height of racing elegance, and their narrow hulls and dramatic sails made them a sight to behold.
Now – Light, Fast, and Fierce
Today’s A-Raters still follow the same core design principles but use modern materials — carbon spars, Mylar sails, and advanced rigging.
They’re raced fiercely during Bourne End Week and Upper Thames Sailing Club championships, and while the hats may have gone, the style hasn’t.
What’s It Like to Helm an A-Rater?
In a word: exhilarating.
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They are responsive and quick.
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They demand excellent boat handling and teamwork.
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And when the wind picks up, they fly down the river in a way few boats can match.
But they’re not for the faint-hearted. A gusty river, narrow channels, and a sail taller than your house? It’s a challenge — and a thrill.
Why We Still Race Them
A-Raters are not just museum pieces. They’re living history that you can still sail, race, and love. And when you see one speeding silently through a tree-lined stretch of the Thames, you understand why they’ve survived so long.
📖 Learn more about A-Raters and see one restored:
https://pmrsailing.uk/Raters/Rater-Boat-Info.html
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