First Boat

[L1OFF]

I'm thinking of taking up sailing, I've done a bit in the past but would need to have some lessons to get my confidence up (I'm 53) and then start looking for a small "towable" sailing dingy. Couple of questions that I'm looking for answers for are, recommendations for dingies and a rough price guide?

Alan

[Rum Runner]

To help let us know what your budget is and if you want a double or single hand-er.Most important thing is where you intend to sail, as some clubs prefer certain boats and have a established classes. Also if in land or coastal.

[b14]

No disrespect to the Pistonheads massive but you're better trying somewhere like yachtsandyachting.com and seeing what is on offer.

[sidekickdmr]

have a look on boatsandoutboards.co.uk or apolloduck.co.uk for the boats

[PaulHogan]

You know the old saying? The day I bought my boat was the second happiest of my life: the happiest was when I sold it!

[maser_spyder]

PaulHogan said:

You know the old saying? The day I bought my boat was the second happiest of my life: the happiest was when I sold it!

Pish. 5 years in with mine, and still love every minute!

You know what they say though, never buy anything that flies, floats, or fks....

[schmalex]

To be honest, I would wholeheartedly recommend a Wayfarer if you want to learn to sail in dinghies. They are extremely forgiving and as such, help you build your confidence rapidly. Additionally, they are excellent boats to take the family out in for the day due to their benign handling characteristics.

When you start improving in both confidence and capability, there are large Wayfarer fleets at most sailing clubs, with some very competitive one-design fleet racing available to you. Wednesday evening or Sunday morning races are a great way to improve your boat handling skills, as well meeting other people with a common interest. Your profile says "South". Not sure where you are in the South, but IIRC, Lymington Town Sailing Club has a huge Wayfarer fleet, as does Hamble River SC.

The only downside of them is that they are a little on the heavy side - the con associated with their benign handling.

[Ayahuasca]

schmalex said:

The only downside of them is that they are a little on the heavy side

Anyone think that is a good trait in women or boats?

The Laser is probably the most popular single-handed boat- go to any dinghy club and you will find a Laser fleet. I don't think this is coincidence!

My first boat, loved it.