The International Star (or Starboat) is a 6.9 m (22.7 ft) one-design racing keelboat for two people. The boat must weigh at least 671 kg (1479.3 lb) with a maximum total sail area of 26.5 m2 (285 ft2). It is sloop-rigged, with a very large mainsail. Unlike most modern racing boats, it does not use a spinnaker when sailing downwind. Instead, when running downwind a whisker pole is used to hold the jib out to windward for correct wind flow. Early Stars were built from wood, but modern boats are generally made of fiberglass. The Star is one of the most prolific keelboats in the world for a reason: it is an incredible boat to sail. Designed in 1911 by Francis Sweisguth, it has proven to be a classic in every sense. It is the oldest Olympic class, having first been used in competition in 1932, and still at the heart of that competition today. Supported by a worldwide association the Star as a class is one of the best organized in sailing, with over 8000 yachts built over its 80 year history, and 2000-plus actively racing today.

The Star has evolved into the consummate craft for all ranges of competition and performance sailing: its equipment and rig is simple enough for the novice, yet versatile enough for those on the forefront of sailing. It's large, powerful sailplan, combined with a sleek hull and light weight, propel the boat in the faintest of airs, while the flexible spar can be tuned to "de-power" when the breeze kicks up. The large main is infinitely adjustable, allowing the sailor to completely control the driving surface of the sail. Stars today are generally constructed of fiberglass, with positive flotation and an integrated keel. The design, sails, and equipment of the Star are governed by stringent class rules, created to improve competition on the basis of skill and control cost . This has also served to help the longevity of the design, keeping older boats competitive through careful evolution.

Many of the world's top sailors past and present have been involved in the Star Class. Its list of former World Champions reads like Who's Who of yachting: Paul Elvström, Lowell North, Buddy Melges, Dennis Conner, Paul Cayard, Torben Grael, etc.