Designed by Canadian Don Martin and premiered in 1981, the Martin 242 is still being built by Dencho Marine in California. Over 350 have been built; they are raced by large fleets on the west coast of Canada and the U.S. The roller-furling 110% jib is the only headsail permitted under class rules, making the boat approachable for family cruising. Raced with a crew of four, this boat features a fractional rig, a deep keel, a large rudder, and a narrow, ultra-light hull for very fine wave entry. Strict class rules and easy maintenance ensure the boat's affordability.