1914 Anker & Jensen 8mR cruiser/racer

Carmen IV is a 1914 8 Metre class yacht designed by Christian Jensen and built by Anker & Jensen in Vollen, Norway. With a hull of mahogany planking over oak frames and an iron keel, she represents traditional wooden yacht construction at its finest. The boat is equipped with a Volvo Penta diesel engine of 13 horsepower and measures 43 feet in length with a beam of 8.7 feet.

The boat has a documented racing heritage, winning the inaugural Færder Race in 1947 and remaining an active competitor in that event for over 75 years. A comprehensive restoration was undertaken in 1996–1997 at Sollerud Coastal Culture Center, involving replacement of planking and frames, new ash ribs, and a complete three-layer epoxy and fiberglass deck. Between 2005 and 2013, further restoration work included additional planking and frame replacement, new Quantum sails, and mast reinforcement. An engine was installed in 2014–2016, along with a new cockpit floor fitted with service hatches.

The hull is tight with no known rot or structural damage, and all wooden surfaces receive annual maintenance including sanding, priming, varnishing, and antifouling treatment. The toe rail was recently sanded and given ten coats of varnish. The deck employs a three-layer construction of tongue-and-groove pine, epoxy-bonded plywood, and fiberglass with a non-slip topcoat. The rig is in good technical condition with mainly cosmetic wear. Currently based in Kragerø, the boat has been recently launched and spring preparations are complete.