Choosing A Dinghy

[CodStewart]

If we go ahead with buying the ferro over in Mexico, one of our first main expenses will be a dinghy. Is that the right term? Dinghy? What would you recommend? We will be liveaboard-cruisers.
Thanks for any pointers.

 

[Das_Boot]

Pumice is all the rage up here. It is light strong and floats well. Alternativly try a Zodiac SR26.

 

[eyupdougdown]

If you can be bothered, and you have the time, make one from ply using stitch and glue method. Fiddly but you can factor in your own requirements, and it'll be so rough when finished - it'll never get nicked. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif If you wanna know more - try 'Phil Bolger' on the net - his book will give you the principle, but you can copy any dinghy you like the look of (within reason) . Marvellous.

 

[Talbot]

a rigid dinghy (wood or GRP) willl last longer being dragged up beaches, but is harder to stow onboard, not good to tow in bad weather, and doesnt normally have the stability of an inflatable.

Inflatables come in three types:
bottom material is reinforced witha few wooden slats.
bottom material is reinforced by a wooden floor.
bottom is a false floor and keel that is inflated to create a V hull forward and a rigid floor.

The version with slats is the lightest and cheapest, but is worst to row, or to use in any waves, and any water in the bottom instantly accumulates around your feet.

The rigid bottom is very heavy and offers very little in benefit over the airdeck. It also is most difficult to stow.

The airdeck with a good V hull is a good compromise between weight, stowage, and capability.

The inflatable tubes are normally made out of a PVC type material which is not great for UV degradation but is a lot cheaper than the avon dinghy. I cover my tubes with a stitched up canvas cover and that is a lot cheaper than the alternative.


Another suggestion if you have a large boat is a small rib, but I dont like the extra weight.

Dont forget that a larger boat is more stable and thus better at going longer distances with weight, but will need a larger engine (and thus more fuel) You will also have to lift the engine out of the tender onboard the yacht, so a heavy engine is not recommended. the average inflatable is about 2.6metres with an engine 3.5 hp or less unless you have long distances to travel, in which case a larger engine (at least 5hp) is better, but might need some form of hoist to get onboard.


Dinghy = any small boat that is used with oars, outboard etc.
Tender = a dinghy used by a yacht to transfer people and bagage.

hope this helps

 

[CodStewart]

Thank you Talbot. Thank you very much.
Thanks to all.
This site is priceless.
Maria