I am pleased to announce the birth of the LeFang 23.8, a one-design class sailboat inspired by history and built for modern performance. Its wooden hull lines are derived from archaeological findings of a Maritime Silk Route ship discovered in Quanzhou (ancient Zayton Port), blending tradition with innovation.

With a sail area of 31.1 sq. m. and a displacement of 2 tonnes, the LeFang 23.8 is the world’s first CE-certified wooden sports junk boat. The hull is crafted in the traditional "Fu Chuan" style, yet it harnesses the wind with two modern cambered sails featuring a carbon yard, aluminum mast, and battens. Enhanced by two airfoil leeboards, the boat excels in close-haul sailing, with recent test sails achieving a top speed of 6.2 knots.

Designed by John Kwong, the LeFang 23.8 was conceived to reignite interest in wooden boat culture and create demand for sustainable, heritage-inspired craftsmanship. This one-design racing junk boat not only honors maritime history but also paves the way for its revival.

Link for video is here https://b23.tv/AjIwz73