What is the best dinghy to buy to take me and my 9 yr old son sailing?

Question

He has just completed his RYA2 course and has got the bug. I used to sail as a kid, but havent sailed for years. I guess we should get a beginners boat - a Mirror? A Laser 2000? Help please, all advice appreciated. Have large Volvo so towing no problem.

Answer 1

Yesterday i read your question. I am researching the dingy market at the moment. I came across a nice site that goes into a bit of detail for you. The attraction is that the kids are trailing the boat to the water in the picture. So between you and your son - no problem.

Here's the link to the laser bahia and others:

http://www.laserperformance.com/main/ind...

I wish you every success

Chris from http://www.boatpride.com

Answer 2

I would recommend a CFJ if you want a two man boat.  It would be a great experience to sail together and work in a team.  If your looking for a one man boat I would recommend a Laser (radial or fullrig) Radial is easier to keep flat because its a smaller sail than a fullrig sail.

Good Luck!

Answer 3

If you're just starting out I would suggest a good sturdy two man boat.

An Enterprise is a good choice and can be a little sporty if you intend to race.  Another good family boat is a Wayfarer, particularly if you fancy sailing in esturies or even the sea, a little heavy and difficult to launch if their are only two of you.  Your suggestion of a Laser 2000 is also a good choice a good all rounder with a asymmetric spinnaker - great fun. Try these and as many other boats as you can before spending your money.  Do not buy new at this stage, if you don't get on with the boat you can always sell it for the same price you paid.

Good luck

Answer 4

a pico is always cool. it's like a laser.

Answer 5

What kind of water will you be sailing in?

................ EDIT

I don't have to much exp with dingys as iv always sailed on much larger boats, but i do have an inflatable one which is great fun, but anyway..

I had a look at the laser, it looks like a very well made piece of equipment and the specs sound good as well, however its quite costly for just reservoir sailing.. But will give your son a better understanding of tacking, the ropes and buoyancy over the mirror.  

But if your looking for just a nice little dingy for local waters rather than the sea i would say the mirror looks like a better choice, plus the money you save can be used for some new life jackets etc..

You shouldn't need much more for just a reservoir ..  (But then again, if you have the money for the laser, that would be a boat to be proud of)

Good luck