Late starter

[wotayottie]

I did notice that modern dinghies look pretty skimpy, and had decided to source a boat with sides on it, as it does seem to be part of the plan that sailing craft should lean over a bit. Also, I wish to acquire the skill of using a sweep for propulsion, so some strength in that stern department is indicated. Though I fear that this "specification creep" may lead towards something too heavy to haul out on my own.

But if I do capsize drill it will be in something very small and light!

It's yourself that you have to haul out of the water - are you "small and light"?

Much easier to use a sweep standing up in the boat because this allows leg muscles to come into play a bit. I used to use one all the time in the club's 17 ft punts to get out to the moorings - it was a sort of tow rag prevention scheme since few if any tow rags would know how to scull as opposed to row, so the punts could be left easily accessible. Tried it in small dinghies - it works but isnt as effective as oars.

 

[roughbert]

Tried it in small dinghies - it works but isnt as effective as oars.

I saw a bit of a newsreel ages ago with a man of non-european appearance doing a hell of a lick with a sweep and the minimalist in me admired the lack of fuss.