How to Get Your Sonata Measured

by Mike Owers, November 1989.

If your boat does not have a valid measurement certificate then it might look like a Sonata and it might sail like a Sonata but it isn't a Sonata. For a list of measurers and for the most up-to-date information on how to get your Sonata measured, please contact the RYA. The article below was written some time ago but the principles are still relevant.

Existing registration certificate

Should you buy a secondhand boat that has a measurement certificate you must have it re-issued in your name. Send the old certificate to the RYA with a letter giving your name, address and sailing club together with the appropriate fee and they will return a new certificate in your name.

Lost certificate

If you think the boat has been measured in the past but the certificate has been lost the RYA should have a copy of it. Write to the RYA explaining that the boat has previously been measured, stating its sail number and also some evidence that you have bought the boat (e.g. copy of the bill of sale or a letter from an official of your sailing club) together with the appropriate fee. The RYA will issue you with a new certificate in your name.

Not previously measured

If your Sonata has not been measured as a National Sonata (IOR or IRC measurement is NOT acceptable) you must first ensure that the boat has been issued with a Building Fee Receipt / Sail Number Allocation Slip. This sail number must be permanently marked on the hull as per the relevant paragraph in the Class Rules. If you do not have this slip, send the RYA your name, address, present sail number and HULL number (imprinted on the top of the transom on boats built since 1981).

Then contact your local Sonata measurer to arrange to have your boat measured. The measurer will have the necessary forms. The cost is at the discretion of the measurer but you will find them most reasonable. On completion of the measurement, the measurer will give you the forms which you must complete with your name and address etc. Send this form to the RYA with the appropriate fee as above. The RYA will then send you a registration certificate in your name.

Last updated 15:57 on 20 August 2024