New Melges 19 class Launches in US, European Future uncertain
MERRITT ISLAND, FL – The Melges 19, a new one-design sailboat engineered for responsive handling and accessible performance, has officially launched in the United States, with a winter series scheduled to begin in December 2025. While the boat is generating excitement amongst American racers, its availability to european sailors remains unconfirmed.
The Melges 19 aims to fill a niche between the popular Melges 15 and the established Melges 24, offering a dynamic sailing experience for a three-person crew. Priced at $34,500 (approximately €31,000), the boat includes a complete sail package featuring a durable Dacron mainsail and Mylar jib. This launch is important for competitive sailors seeking a modern, strictly one-design platform where skill, rather than equipment, determines success. The future of the class hinges on whether Melges Europe will extend distribution beyond its current offerings.
designed for ease of use,the 5.79-meter (19-foot) boat boasts a lightweight build of 179 kilograms and a transport system incorporating a custom dolly/trailer. Melges reports the 19 accelerates and planes effortlessly in winds of 10 knots or higher, providing immediate feedback and control to the helmsperson. Specifications include a beam of 1.98 meters and a draft of 1.37 meters.
the inaugural Melges 19 Winter Series will be held at the Melges Watersports Center in Merritt island, Florida, comprising four events between December 2025 and March 2026, each preceded by a pre-regatta clinic.
Melges Performance Sailboats has a long history of accomplished one-design classes. The Melges 15, launched globally in March 2022 through a partnership with Nelo in Portugal, quickly gained traction, with over 275 boats sold in North America and 200 more on order at the time of its release. European fleets have as formed in Ireland and Portugal, culminating in a European Championship won by Atlee Kohl and Cathal O’Regan at the 2023 Volvo Dun Laoghaire Regatta. The Melges 24 has maintained a strong European presence for three decades with consistent championship events and a vibrant racing community.
Currently, Melges Europe, based in La Spezia, Italy, manages distribution for other Melges classes, but has not yet announced plans to import the Melges 19. The streefgewicht (ideal crew weight) for the Melges 19 is between 220-243 kilograms. Sail areas are 12 square meters for the mainsail, 6 square meters for the jib, and 30 square meters for the gennaker.
