Input wanted re: new dinghy

[jbr]

I''m looking to buy a new dinghy for recreational sailing (maybe racing down the road but not now) and would like people''s input to help me narrow down the choices. I''m 175 lbs 5''10" have been sailing a 17'' daysailor sloop singlehanded for a couple of years and I''m probably an average sailor.

What I''m looking for now is a smaller and lighter dinghy in the 12-15'' range (under 150 lbs) which can be sailed in gusty and high wind conditions on inland lakes and can easily be righted and unturtled singlehandedly.

I''m particularly attracted to dinghies which are are fast and maneuverable, but still reasonably stable in rough conditions, with excellent sail controls, and great manual and automatic depowering, ie, using an unstayed flexible masts such as the Megabyte.

I''ve never sailed a laser, looks like a great boat but maybe a little too challenging and unstable. Megabyte looks pretty good and from what I''ve heard it may be more stable. So, what are the hottest singlehanded dingies around which are still manageable in a blow and are easy to right and unturtle? I''m assuming that skiffs are too unsable? Thanks for any input!

jbr

[paulk]

If you may be looking to race, down the road, then you need to look around where you are to see what people are racing, and get one of those. The fact that whatever it is is being raced means that there should be a reaonable supply of used boats available. Some may be quite tired from hard racing, but they may suit your needs and pocketbook well. If you take to racing and like it, you''ll be able to sell your boat and get a newer/faster one if you need to. Your weight is about perfect for a laser, if they race near you. If you''re intimiidated by the laser, look for one with a radial rig (same hull- shorter rig) to start, or to practice in until you''re ready for the full rig.

[jbr]

Thanks, Paul.
Only concern about a Laser is in heavy wind.

JBR