What is an ern?

An ern is a traditional wooden sailing boat used in the Baltic Sea. It was originally developed in Finland in the late 19th century for local fishermen and later became popular for recreational sailing. Erns are small in size, typically around 20-30 feet in length, with a gaff-rigged mainsail and a jib. They are known for their stability and ability to handle rough seas, making them well-suited for cruising and racing in the Baltic waters. Erns are often beautifully crafted with traditional wooden construction and are still actively used and raced in Finland and other Baltic countries today.