Laser 2000 in the States?

[sportf59]

I learned to sail in Europe using the Laser 2000, which could comfortably hold 3 adults and also had a double trapeze which was a lot of fun. After searching, it seems that this boat is not available in the States so I have been trying to find a comparable boat. What I liked about the Laser 2000 was that it was easy for a beginner to handle, very stable and comfortable for daysailing, but also had all of the elements for more experienced sailing like the trapeze and spinnaker. I've been looking at the Club 420, Club FJ (both of which don't seem to be suited for two adults), Laser 2, and Vector, all from Vanguard, but these all seem to be designed specifically for racing with a very narrow hull. On the other hand, the 146 and 170 from Hunter seem to be very comfortable for daysailing, but lack the trapeze. I'd really appreciate it if someone could suggest a boat which combines these features like the Laser 2000. Thanks!

[Zogumwesterly]

Have you considered the Vanguard Nomad? http:[www.teamvanguard.com/2007/boats/nomad/features.htm[/url]

[sportf59]

I like the Nomad, but I just wish it had a trapeze. It seems similar to the Hunter 170, but more performance-based and also more expensive, but still lacking the trapeze.

The boat I'm trying to find is described in the section of the Vanguard Vector: "Modern double trapeze dinghies have generally fallen into two camps: speedy and nimble but too challenging for all but the very elite sailors, or accommodating to a wide range of skills, yet too heavy and slow to be truly thrilling"

I'm basically trying to find these heavy and slow double trapeze boats that they speak of, since that seems to be what the Laser 2000 was! Thanks

[poltergeist]

I'm way too old for the kind of sailing you describe, but you might want to ask the same question on the " Dinghy Sailing" forum at sailinganarchy.com. Lots of younger hotshots hang out there who sail high-performance boats. Most of 'em I've never even heard of. Be forewarned ... there's testosterone and snarkiness to spare over there. Have fun!

Kurt