The Ajax 23 fleet is one of the most active, friendly, and competitive keelboat classes on the East Coast, offering sailors of all experience levels the perfect blend of performance, camaraderie, and pure sailing enjoyment. Our fleet brings together sailors who value close one-design racing, supportive teamwork, and a thriving social scene both on and off the water.

Designed by Oliver Lee, the Ajax 23 is a delightfully responsive keelboat—quick in light airs, confident in a breeze, and rewarding for helms and crews who enjoy tactical, boat-on-boat racing. With simple rigging, manageable loads, and a stable feel, the Ajax is equally suited to seasoned racers looking for tight competition and newcomers wanting to develop their skills in a welcoming environment.

A wide range of racing is held April to October – from popular Wednesday evening racing followed by relaxed refreshments on the lawn to series racing is mainly on Sundays throughout the year along with championship events held in Dovercourt Bay.

If you’re looking for a boat that delivers competitive one design racing without the complexity or cost of larger keelboats, the Ajax 23 is an exceptional choice. Light, responsive, and beautifully balanced, the Ajax rewards good sailing rather than big budgets—making it ideal for owners who value skill, tactics, and close racing.

You’ll join a fleet that is active, welcoming, and committed to helping new owners settle in quickly.

Whether you’re stepping up from dinghies, downsizing from a larger yacht, or returning to sailing after a break, the Ajax offers the perfect blend of performance, simplicity, and community. It’s a boat you’ll love to sail—and a fleet you’ll be proud to be part of.

The Club has a race ready Ajax to hire to tempt new owners into the class and the occasional visitor, just contact the office.

If you just want to get out on the water, learn new skills, and enjoy competitive racing in a friendly environment, the Ajax 23 fleet is one of the easiest ways to get started at RHYC. The boats are stable, comfortable, and rewarding to sail, making them ideal for sailors of all experience levels.

You don’t need to own a boat to get involved. The fleet is always looking for enthusiastic crew. Owners are supportive and keen to bring new sailors into the class, whether you’re a seasoned racer or completely new to keelboats.

Crewing on an Ajax gives you the chance to learn tactical racing, develop teamwork, and become part of a lively, sociable group both on and off the water. If you’re looking for a welcoming route into keelboat sailing, this is it.

Come and join us on the water—there’s always room on the start line.

Graham Aubrey
Class Captain

WhatsApp 07760 624779

Previous Year’s Reports

2025 Ajax Class Captain Report

2024 East Coast Captain Report