Sailing Dinghy - Small / Rowing / Outboard

andyb28

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Good Afternoon Everyone,

I recently sold my Yacht and am about to purchase a Nimbus 320.
Because of this, I would like to still occasionally sail and am looking for a small sailing dinghy that's a bit of an all rounder.

I previously owned Hartley Gull, which was perfect. I could sail it on my own, attach a small outboard or row it. I was going to get another one, but thought that maybe there are other boats out there that can do the same? I will be single handed, so nothing too big. Wayfarer would be way too big and I am aware of the Wanderer. Any other makes worth looking at?
This is for cruising, not racing.
 

SimonKNZ

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When I was in the UK we had a Comet Trio - a lovely boat for sailing and also general messing around with outboard or oars. Slightly too big for OP's requirements, but the smaller Versa (13') would be suitable.
 

MisterBaxter

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If you fancy a project you could build a Goat Island Skiff, which looks perfect for your needs. It would be buildable in one winter, I think - I built a Bolger June Bug in a week of full time work, which is a similar design but slightly simpler in the detailing.
 

Frayed Knot

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If you fancy a project you could build a Goat Island Skiff, which looks perfect for your needs. It would be buildable in one winter, I think - I built a Bolger June Bug in a week of full time work, which is a similar design but slightly simpler in the detailing
There are quite a few designs available & if you have the time/inclination it can be a good idea.
I’ve just finished (except for paint & varnish) a nesting Spindrift. Anyone contemplating a project like that should be aware that even from a kit it takes a lot more time than might be imagined (albeit thoroughly enjoyable)
Also, a nesting dinghy could probably be carried on the deck of the Nimbus.
 

veshengro

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I have a 14 foot version of a Trident. Simulated clinker, steel drop centre plate, Gunter rig. Always single handed and it's easy to tow/launch, and I'm a wrinkly. Cheap home made tent, summer nights aboard the and no marina fees
 
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Kelpie

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There are quite a few designs available & if you have the time/inclination it can be a good idea.
I’ve just finished (except for paint & varnish) a nesting Spindrift. Anyone contemplating a project like that should be aware that even from a kit it takes a lot more time than might be imagined (albeit thoroughly enjoyable)
Also, a nesting dinghy could probably be carried on the deck of the Nimbus.
Which size did you go for? I built an 11N which we use as our everyday tender. Great fun under sail and a joy to row. In hindsight I would have built the 10 instead, it would be easier to handle getting on and off the deck, and still easily big enough for the job.
 

Caer Urfa

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We have a number of GP14's at our local sailing club and many are sailed 'single handed' (usually with just the main sail up) and they are very stable but not for a novice sailor, big advantage is you can easily and maybe best sail with two of you and fit an outboard if necessary.

However many have wood hulls so suggest you best buy GRP version and they are no lightweight at 132 kg plus there's plenty on the market for sale at reasonable prices
 

DownWest

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My Oughtred Whilly Tern is a delight to sail, but you would have to build one. Though I could be tempted to make room for the new boat...

The Goat Island Skiff, is highly regarded. But very light and needs an agile helmsman...

Local friend aquired a Heron with a Seagull OB, never rigged and no C/board case. So he bought some Mirror sails, made the spars and fitted the c/b case. His grand daughter loves it.
DW
 

Frayed Knot

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Which size did you go for? I built an 11N which we use as our everyday tender. Great fun under sail and a joy to row. In hindsight I would have built the 10 instead, it would be easier to handle getting on and off the deck, and still easily big enough for the job.
I went for the nine as I wanted it to be as easy as possible to manhandle on & off the boat. I was a bit unsure but looking at the completed boat I’m certain it will be big enough for my wife and me.
 

mickywillis

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A GRP Heron would fit the bill, 11ft long, similar to a Mirror, but a pointed bow. Available in gaff or bermudan rig, there are loads of wooden ones, but a GRP one would fit the bill best.
 

ashtead

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I don’t know if you have considered a inflatable dinghy like a tinker tramp? I have often thought of buying one . Current we have a blow up canoe but a sailing canoe perhaps with outrigger? I know having owned one for many years any mirror dinghy would need towing so might be swamped but versatile for outboard -mirror mania might be a book buy to go with it. Generally I suspect weight is biggest issue -even lifting a topper sailing dinghy on board is a task. Ever thought of taking up paddling boarding with a electric engine attached?
 

Paul1962

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How about a Walker Bay 10 Dinghy with Sail Kit and Buoyancy Collar? - You can fit up to 6hp with Collar or 2.5hp( I think) without the Collar

Regards
 

DownWest

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About building: The designer of the Goat Island Skiff said at the time that he was more interested in sailing than building, so it is a very quick and simple build. He designed another boat, which is ridiculously simple; but rather square. Surprisingly fast, clocked at 12kts. I will look for a link.

Sad think is, with the price of epoxy and decent ply, building doesn't compete well with the number of older GRP boats at give away prices. Though, more fun, if tinkering is your thing. (I am on my fourth..)
 
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