Jack Holt (dinghy designer)

Jack Holt (1912 – 1995) was a British boat designer, particularly known for his prolific and influential designs of dinghies and sailing boats. He designed a wide range of boats, from small training dinghies to larger cruising yachts, and his designs have been built by both amateur and professional boat builders worldwide.

Holt's designs were characterized by their simplicity, ease of construction, and robust performance, making them popular choices for both recreational sailing and competitive racing. He emphasized practicality and affordability in his designs, contributing significantly to the accessibility of sailing as a sport.

Some of his most notable designs include:

• Mirror: A popular training dinghy, designed in 1963 in collaboration with journalist Barry Bucknell. The Mirror is characterized by its easy handling and distinct pram-style hull.
• Enterprise: A two-person dinghy, designed in 1956, widely used for racing and recreational sailing. It is known for its stability and performance in a variety of conditions.
• GP14 (General Purpose 14): A versatile dinghy, designed in 1949 by Holt in collaboration with Ian Proctor. The GP14 is suitable for both racing and cruising, and is popular with families and sailing clubs.
• Cadet: A two-person training dinghy specifically designed for young sailors.
• Heron: Another popular training dinghy, known for its simple construction and stability.

Holt's designs have had a lasting impact on the sailing world, influencing generations of sailors and boat builders. His emphasis on practicality and affordability helped to democratize sailing, making it accessible to a wider audience. Many of his designs remain popular today, both in their original forms and as inspiration for more modern designs. Holt also authored several books on boat building and sailing.