Fifty years on from its maiden voyage, the yacht's golden jubilee is being celebrated in the town this weekend.
The Ruffian 23 was the creation of local brothers Billy and Dickie Brown.
Designed to be agile in challenging Irish Sea conditions, it was an instant hit with both racing and cruising sailors.
About 200 were built in total, with some being exported as far away as Hong Kong where they remain in competition today.
The Portaferry Sailing Club is hosting the jubilee over three days from 15-18 June.
The organisation of the event has been something of a family affair, with Heather Kennedy, daughter of the yacht's designer Billy Brown, and her cousin Karen Brown, sailor Dickie Brown's daughter, both at the helm.
Ms Kennedy said the event was an emotional and fitting tribute to her father and uncle, who have both died.
"I know daddy and uncle Dickie had great ideas and dreams about the Ruffian 23 but I don't think they could have imagined they would have still been racing competitively in 50 years time," she said.
"Hearing the joy and excitement people get from sailing these little boats is quite humbling, really."
In total, there are 17 Ruffian 23s in attendance, alongside a flotilla of other craft.
In keeping with their competition heritage, the yachts are due to race on Strangford lough on Saturday as part of the event.
The winner will receive a special 3D printed trophy depicting the Ruffian 23 in full sail.
Principal race officer John McAlea said the jubilee was an "extremely significant" milestone in Portaferry's maritime history. "We grew up with these boats at the Portaferry Sailing Club,"
"We celebrated their 25th anniversary and now we're delighted to celebrate their 50th.
"It's a great honour for us as a club and a great privilege to see so many of these boats at the same time."
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