This text examines the history of the 12 metre yatch class, focusing on designers, owners, skippers, and crews, and telling the story of how the class was conceived, developed, and its influence on the evolution of yatch design. It includes a complete register of every 12 metre ever built.

This book brings to life the history of the very special International 12 Metre class, from the First International Rule to the America's Cup. Some of the world's greatest designers - William Fife, Charles Nicholson, Olin Stephens, and others - created these large, graceful yachts that played a significant role in the development of yachting in the 20th century. Illustrated with excellent historic and contemporary photos and original line plans of the boats, it also includes a complete register of every 12 Metre ever built.