Sailing Dinghy Advice

[Spader]

Despite this being a cruising forum, the wealth of knowledge on the board is quite impressive. As such, I am going to ask for some information on a topic that may only be tangentially related to cruising.

I am looking for some advice on purchasing a sailing dinghy. I recently completed my ASA Basic Keelboat Certification and am now looking for a boat I can sail in order to gain some practical experience. My sailing experience to date consists of the use of the sailing school’s Capri 22 during my certification classes.

My research has led me to the conclusion that there are many dinghy models from which to choose. Quite frankly, I am overwhelmed. I could use some help narrowing the list and would appreciate some recommendations.

In general, I am looking for a boat that is/will:

A good beginners boat upon which to learn;
Be easy to launch, sail and trailer solo;
Can hold 2 crew members in relative comfort;
Has a high boom;
Appropriate for use on small inland lakes (40-ish acres);

While I am certainly not tied to these models, some boats that have piqued my interest are the O’day Daysailors, Javelin and the Mutineer.

Any advice you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Jeffery

[nolatom]

A used Snipe might fit your needs. I'd also suggest a Flying Scot or Lightning, but they're a good bit heavier for getting on and off trailers. The Snipe is a classic good-sailing lake boat used principally for racing but easy to sail, used ones are plentiful. Only thing is, you mostly sit "on" rather than "in" them, they're 2-person max. The Day Sailer might be a good selection too, it's larger and a sit-"in".

[capt lar]

rhodes 19 is a good daysailor - more than a dingy but easy to sail. 2 or 3 people. active racing fleets if you decide to trailer. much easier to sail than a flying scot or lightning. has a little spinnaker - get you ready to move up. they have a centerboard version. been around forever so all sorts of prices. lasers are fun, too, but really for one. capt. lar

[Spader]

Thanks for the replies. You both gave me some ideas for additional boats I should review.

It is funny that a Snipe was mentioned. They look like great boats and there is a local sailing club that races them. However, I decided I would enjoy a boat you sit in, rather than on, a bit more.

Again, thank you for your assistance.

Jeffery

[By Invitation]

Herreshoff 12 1/2, also know as a doughdish. Awesome boats, very comfortable and classic lines.