The Albacore is a 4.57 m (15 ft) two-person planing dinghy with fractional sloop rig, for competitive racing and lake and near-inshore day sailing.

[1] The Albacore's rig uses swept spreaders supporting a tapered mast, a powerful vang, and adjustable jib halyard and other sail controls to depower in high winds.

The powerful rig and easily driven hull give excellent performance over a wide range of wind and wave conditions.

The 2011 international champion described the Albacore as a boat that is simple to get into at first, but one that will challenge the tuning and tactical skills of a sailor for the rest of their life.

The first Albacore (number 1) was built by Clive Dollery and Dave Lowe, who adapted Uffa Fox's design.

Lowe's father and Uffa Fox had discussed and agreed to build a non-standard Flying 25 with significant changes made.

Several members of the Locks Sailing club were interested in this project and formed a committee with Fairey Marine, resulting in the 'committee modified Swordfish'.

In 1958 the National Albacore championships were held under the burgee of the Locks Sailing Club, in Langstone Harbour with a fleet of 46 boats.

The Albacore class offers an active racing program, attracting experienced sailors as well as new enthusiasts.

In addition, Albacores compete with other boats in a mixed fleet by means of the Portsmouth Yardstick handicap scheme.

[21] The rigging of early Albacores was very simple, including such basic features as a flat centerboard and fixed jib fairleads.