The OK dinghy...is that the world's smallest cockpit?

[Romeo]

Sandhopper's a pretty rare boat. Not especially cheap either.

It's funny that I was so keen on the Wayfarer. I still know they're great boats, and wonderfully versatile.

But in the end (six years ago, last week!) I chose an Osprey instead - quite similar, but longer, leaner, lighter and faster...and more challenging in a breeze, especially sailed solo. But she's a thing of such beauty, I'll never part with her.

How do you get on with rowing her, and specifically how do you stow oars long enough for the job?

 

[Greenheart]

You have not mentioned the Squib. Went up to 4 boats 3 weeks ago now I have acquired a launch !.

Every sailing chap over 40 needs a motor launch. It's the natural dignified progression from Sonny Crockett go-fast boat. I'm thinking of getting an alligator for the Corribee, too...or a little caiman, because the cabin is so cramped.

Glad to hear about the Squib. If I didn't like drying out upright at low tide, I'd have bought one years ago. :encouragement:

 

[Greenheart]

How do you get on with rowing her, and specifically how do you stow oars long enough for the job?

Excellent question.

I acquired 8ft long oars from a gent on this forum, and they fit easily enough on the cockpit floor - which is 8ft 6" from rear bulkhead to forward.

The truth is, the only times I find I need the oars, are when I haven't taken them. So I'm obliged now to take them every time, in order to be certain of wishing I'd left them ashore.

I actually stow them in small shockcord loops under the protruding gunwales, where they're not in the way, don't get washed away, and can be brought into use pretty quickly.

I also attached the mainsheet to the boom with quick-release hooks so it's quickly removed in order not to be in the rower's way.

As to actually using the oars...I was rather surprised by how very hard it is to drive the lovely smooth slender Osprey along against any kind of breeze or chop. In identical conditions she sails upwind so effortlessly, it is hard to see why she can't be thrust along as easily by muscles.

But, they're still a nice thing to have aboard when creeping into shallow creeks against the wind. It's also possible that my physical condition is the reason she doesn't slide along quickly under oars. Also - I fitted lazyjacks to the Osprey to prevent 100sq ft of mainsail and boom monopolising the cockpit when I lower the sail...

...I have found them exceedingly useful on many occasions, but the windage of a hurriedly-flaked mainsail still on the boom, may account for how hard it is to row against the wind.

I'll attach a pic later - it's harder to do from the phone.