How big a dinghy?

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Tony O.

Wooden boat

I operate a catalina 30. I use a 14 foot wooden rowboat that a friend was going to discard. The lamination had decomposed and the boat had been sitting in his field decomposing. That is until I came along. I completely re-built the boat and now it serves me and my wife and our grandchildren (2) very well. Matter of fact I wouldn't be afraid to carry as many as 4 200 lb. adults in the boat, as a ferry to shore.The boat trails very well when we are under sail. I have tested with and without and there doesn't seem to be much difference in handling or in speed. My reccommendation is to shop around for someone's discarded wooden boat (or any other material) repair it and viola! I know what you mean about the dingys on the market and I agree I don't think I would trust such small boats. One must remember, the safety of the passengers is the primary focus of the captain.
 
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Gary Jensen

get an inflatable

I would look at an inflatable ..I would get the better kind (Avon, Achillies, Nissan and some Zodiacs) The main thing to look for is size (at least 9 feet and material (Hapalon).. Having multiple air chambers allows for a safer day for the family...Good luck
 
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Frank Gazzano

Inflatables

Dave, It would be worth your time and money to search the Practical Sailor archives for the comparative tests they've done on inflatables before rushing into a purchase. There are many combinations of lentgh, flooring materials, chambers, and volume that effect how they perform under power or while rowing.
 
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Bob Camarena

Inflatable

Clearly an inflatable is your best bet. You're probably talking about something in the 10' range. If cost is an issue, look for a quality used boat. The West Marine store brands are a pretty good value, new or used. Hypalon will cost more but should last longer than PVC, but I wouldn't obsess over it.
 
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Dave Z.

thanks all

for your suggestions. I have an option on an avon redcrest the previous owner of my boat would sell for $600, it is looking like a deal. Tony O, you are the kind of guy I stand in awe of. Me, refit a wooden boat..THAT would be a safety issue! But they are pretty.
 
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