[PUP] What you look for in a dingy?

[Peter Pisciotta]

> We plan to leave this August for a 2
> year cruise down the West coast, through the Panama
> canal, up the East coast of the US, back down, and
> into the Caribbean.  We expect to anchor out 50% of
> the time.  

Personally, my choice is a rigid-bottom inflatable
with the largest tubes possible, hypalon fabric (more
durable and sun resistant than PVC, but tends to leak
down a bit - also more expensive due to construction
is a more manual process). I'd probably look at an
11-12 foot model, with at least a 15hp on it. I think
2-strokes are no longer available in California, and I
suspect the same is true elsewhere - they are being
phased out, though I agree with you and would prefer a
2-stroke if available. Either way, 200 pounds would
not be feasible for me (much as I like the thought).

When anchored along the Pacific coasts of
North/Central America, I think you'll often find
yourselves some distance from where you want to be -
either the nearest landing, or some distance from
interesting exploring. Or there's another boat
anchored 2-miles away. Or something - seems like
there's always reason to speed away in a dinghy.
You'll often have to battle some minor wind chop in an
anchorage, or in more populous areas, wakes from jet
skis and passing boats. Any combination of which will
make the ride very wet and uncomfortable so the bigger
tubes are helpful - speed is your friend with a
dinghy.

While I can only comment on the Walker Bay from afar,
they seem a little lightly built - the tubes are
small, the hull seems pretty flexible. My guess would
be it would be better suited for occasional use, not
as your 'daily driver,' which is what a cruiser's
dinghy becomes. 

I have a slight aversion to rigid dinghies because
they always knock against the hull when tethered to an
anchored boat. Lots of marks on the hull too. Over
course, they do well when coming alongside a crusty
pier or piling in a third world country.

It's been a few years, but Caribe used to have a good
reputation - and come with really big tubes (great for
sitting while driving, keeps spray down, more stable,
etc). I'd certainly look at Practical Sailor for a
recommendation.

Good luck Scott - I'll be very interested to know your
ultimate decision.

Peter
www.SeaSkills.com