GINKGO Design 29 Perspective
Designer
Ben Lexcen
(1936 - 1988)
Date1971-1976
Object numberANMS1543[001]
NamePlan
MediumPaper
Dimensions390 x 250
Copyright© Ben Lexcen
ClassificationsMaps, charts and plans
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionA 3D perspective from starboard quarter of GINKGO by Ben Lexcen showing a deck plan, fittings and interior cut-away view.HistoryGINKGO was an IOR racing yacht designed by Ben Lexcen in 1971/72. The yacht was 44’ 9 ¾ “overall in length and 39’ on the water line with a beam of 12’ 6”. With an IOR rating of 36’3” it was an Admiral Cup and Hobart Race Australian contender, receiving Line Honours and corrected time winder in the 1972 Monague, Tom Thumb and Cabbage Tree Island Races.
The hull shape and overall design of GINKGO is a good example of Ben Lexcen’s style and knowledge. It indicates his background designing, building and sailing dinghies, making sails and the use of hull shape and light weight construction to produce a winning fast yacht. One of his earlier designs in 1966, MERCEDES III, was the first ocean racing yacht he designed. It was part of Australia’s winning team of three yachts in the 1967 Admiral’s Cup series in England. This was Australia's first victory in the premier international ocean racing series of the period, and the highest placed yacht overall in the series.
SignificanceBen Lexcen designed the 45’ IOR racing yacht GINKGO for Gary Bogard in 1971/1972. He adopted a different approach from other yacht designers at the time by focusing on light weight, an easily driven hull shape and comparatively small sail area. GINKGO and its sister-ship, APOLLO II, had successful racing careers. Two smaller yachts using the same design shape and concept, CEILL II and RAMPAGE won handicap honours in the Sydney to Hobart race. 
