18 footer archives: Sydney skiff sailing in 1967

18 foot skiffs on Sydney Harbour in 1967 © 18 footers TV

The eighteen foot skiffs have had many forms over the last 130 years, but their hallmarks of big sails, big speeds and plenty of shouting have remained the same.

Here, a documentary - shot in 1967 on 16mm film which required multiple changes of film out on the water - which went on to win at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Somewhat different from today's winged skiffs, bristling with carbon fibre and only three sails, these yachts were wooden, had spinnaker poles and a whole wardrobe of sails to hoist and manage.

Keep an eye out for more footage from the 18 footer archives in the coming weeks.