Magda IX

Design & Construction

Magda IX was an International First Rule 12 Metre, designed and built in 1912 by Anker & Jensen in Norway. She was commissioned by Alfred W. G. Larsen, one of Norway’s most prominent yachtsmen, and named Magda after his wife.

Although Larsen had previously favored designs by William Fife, disappointing results with Rollo during the 1911 season led him to commission Johan Anker to design his Olympic yacht. The decision proved decisive and historically significant.

1912 Olympic Victory

Magda IX achieved international fame by winning the 1912 Olympic Sailing Competition held at Nynäshamn, Sweden, defeating Erna Signe (Sweden) and Heatherbell (Finland). She won two of the three races, securing the gold medal for Norway.

Olympic Crew (1912):

  • Alfred W. G. Larsen – Owner & Helmsman

  • Johan Anker – Sailing Master

  • Nils Bertelsen

  • Eilert Falch-Lund

  • Halfdan Hansen

  • Arnfinn Heje

  • Magnus Konow

  • Petter Larsen

  • Christian Staib

  • Carl Thaulow

In the same year, Magda IX was narrowly defeated by Erna Signe at Kiel Week, underlining the exceptionally high level of competition among First Rule Twelves of the era.

Early Ownership and Service (1912–1919)

From 1912 to 1919, Magda IX remained under the ownership of Alfred W. G. Larsen, with Christiania (Oslo) listed as her home port. During this period, she was actively raced and widely regarded as one of the most successful Scandinavian Twelve Metres of her generation.

Name Changes and Modifications (1920–1933)

Following Larsen’s ownership, the yacht passed through several hands and name changes:

  • 1919–1926:
    Owner: Ludvig Wiese
    New Name: Moyana II
    Home Port: Fredrikstad, Norway

  • 1920:
    Rig altered to a Bermudan cutter, with sail area reduced to 263 m², reflecting evolving rating practices.

  • 1925:
    Registered in Lloyd’s Register as “formerly International Rating Class 12 Metre”.

  • 1927–1933:
    Owner: J. Christensen
    New Name: Liss V
    Home Port: Drammen, Norway

Later Years and Final Fate (1934–1954)

Ownership thereafter becomes less clearly documented but includes:

  • 1934–1935:
    Owner: Josef Larsen
    New Name: Moyana
    Home Port: Fredrikstad

  • 1935–1947:
    Owner: Peder Larsen
    New Name: Moyana II
    Home Port: Fredrikstad

In the summer of 1951, the yacht was shipwrecked off the Swedish coast. She was formally removed from Lloyd’s Register in 1954, marking the end of her documented existence.

Historical Significance

Magda IX occupies a central place in International 12 Metre history as:

  • The Olympic gold-medal winner of 1912

  • A landmark collaboration between Alfred W. G. Larsen and Johan Anker

  • A decisive turning point away from British dominance toward Scandinavian Twelve Metre innovation

Her success helped cement Johan Anker’s reputation as one of the most influential yacht designers and sailing strategists of the 20th century.