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• 420 Sailboats: Exploring the Thrill of Dinghy Sailing

Sailing has been an adventurous and captivating water activity enjoyed by enthusiasts around the world for centuries. Among the various sailing boats, the 420 sailboat stands out as a popular choice for dinghy sailing. In this article, we will delve into the exciting world of 420 sailboats, understand what makes them unique, explore different sailing dinghy types, and discover the thrill of dinghy cruising. So, hoist the sails and let's embark on this thrilling journey!

What are 420 Sailboats?

1.1 the origins of the 420 sailboat.

The 420 sailboat originated in France in the late 1950s as a two-person dinghy designed for competitive racing. Its design was based on the popularity of the larger 470 sailboat and was intended to create a more accessible racing boat for young sailors.

1.2 Design and Characteristics

The 420 sailboat typically measures around 4.2 meters (13 feet 9 inches) in length, featuring a single trapeze, a mainsail, and a jib. The boat's hull is often made of fiberglass, ensuring durability and performance on the water.

1.3 Sailing Community and Competitions

Over the years, the 420 sailboat has garnered a strong global following, becoming one of the most popular dinghies for youth and amateur sailors. The boat's versatility allows both beginners and experienced sailors to enjoy thrilling competitions and hone their skills.

The Fascination of Dinghy Sailing

2.1 understanding dinghy sailing.

Dinghy sailing involves sailing small boats, often single-handedly or with a crew of one or two. It offers a more intimate connection with the water, providing sailors with an immersive experience of being one with the elements.

2.2 Advantages of Dinghy Sailing

Dinghy sailing offers several advantages, such as affordability, portability, and maneuverability. Sailors can easily transport and launch dinghies, allowing them to explore various water bodies and remote sailing destinations.

2.3 Challenges and Skills Required

While dinghy sailing is exhilarating, it requires a certain level of skill and adaptability. Sailors must learn to handle the boat in changing weather conditions and use their body weight to maintain stability.

Exploring Dinghy Cruising

3.1 escaping to serene waters.

Dinghy cruising offers a unique opportunity to explore secluded coves, tranquil lakes, and winding rivers. Sailors can escape the bustling city life and immerse themselves in the serenity of nature.

3.2 Navigating the Seas with Confidence

Before embarking on a dinghy cruise, sailors must acquaint themselves with navigation skills, weather patterns, and safety procedures. Proper planning and preparation are essential for a safe and enjoyable journey.

3.3 Preparing for a Dinghy Cruise

Preparing for a dinghy cruise involves packing essential supplies, inspecting the boat's condition, and ensuring all safety equipment is onboard. Additionally, sailors should inform someone about their sailing plans for added security.

Different Types of Sailing Dinghies

4.1 traditional sailing dinghies.

Traditional sailing dinghies often have classic designs and are cherished for their historical significance. They offer a nostalgic sailing experience, appealing to enthusiasts looking to reconnect with the past.

4.2 Modern Performance Dinghies

Modern performance dinghies, like the 420 sailboat, are designed for optimal speed and maneuverability. They are favored by competitive sailors and those seeking an adrenaline-fueled sailing experience.

4.3 Choosing the Right Dinghy for You

When selecting a sailing dinghy, consider your sailing goals, experience level, and preferred type of sailing. Consulting with experienced sailors or boat dealers can help you make an informed decision.

Unraveling the Mystery of Dinghies

5.1 defining a dinghy.

A dinghy is a small boat, often with a shallow draft, suitable for short trips near the shore or larger vessels. Dinghies serve various purposes, such as transportation between a yacht and the shore.

5.2 Brief History of Dinghies

Dinghies have a rich history, dating back to ancient times when they were used as lifeboats and for short excursions from larger ships. Their design and purpose have evolved over centuries.

5.3 The Role of Dinghies Today

In the modern era, dinghies continue to play a crucial role in recreational sailing, racing events, and as safety boats for larger vessels. Their versatility and ease of handling make them an essential part of the sailing community.

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The versatility of the 420 sailboat, 6.1 thrilling racing experience.

The 420 sailboat offers an exhilarating racing experience, with its responsive design and competitive class association events worldwide. Sailing enthusiasts can participate in friendly regattas or challenging competitions.

6.2 Casual Sailing and Cruising

Beyond racing, the 420 sailboat is equally enjoyable for leisurely sailing and cruising. Its stable and forgiving nature makes it suitable for novices, families, and friends seeking quality time on the water.

6.3 Ideal for Novices and Experts Alike

The 420 sailboat strikes a perfect balance between beginner-friendly features and high-performance capabilities. Novice sailors can develop their skills with ease, while experienced sailors can explore advanced techniques.

420 Sailboat vs. Flying Junior Sailboat

7.1 a closer look at flying junior sailboat.

The Flying Junior (FJ) sailboat is another popular double-handed dinghy known for its competitive racing and sailing programs in schools and clubs worldwide.

7.2 Key Differences and Similarities

While the 420 sailboat and Flying Junior share similarities in terms of size and purpose, they have distinct design elements, which affect their handling and performance.

7.3 Choosing Between the Two

Choosing between the 420 sailboat and Flying Junior depends on individual preferences, training programs available, and desired sailing experience. Both boats offer thrilling adventures for sailors of all ages.

Yacht vs. Boat: Understanding the Distinction

8.1 what defines a yacht.

A yacht is a larger and more luxurious vessel, often used for recreational purposes, cruising, and leisure activities. Yachts are known for their opulence, amenities, and long-range capabilities.

8.2 How is a Boat Different?

Boats, including sailing dinghies like the 420, refer to smaller watercraft used for various purposes, such as sailing, fishing, transportation, and sports.

8.3 Determining the Right Vessel for Your Needs

Selecting between a yacht and a boat depends on factors such as budget, desired activities, number of passengers, and the kind of sailing experience you wish to have.

The Thrill of 420 Sailing Competitions

9.1 the competitive spirit.

420 sailing competitions are known for their competitive spirit and camaraderie among sailors. Participants challenge their skills and tactics to outperform their rivals.

9.2 International 420 Class Association (ICA)

The International 420 Class Association (ICA) is the governing body that organizes and regulates 420 sailing events worldwide, fostering a vibrant and inclusive sailing community.

9.3 Notable 420 Sailing Events

From local regattas to prestigious international championships, 420 sailors have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of events that cater to different skill levels and age groups.

Owning a 420 Sailboat: A Dream Come True

10.1 factors to consider before purchasing.

If you're considering owning a 420 sailboat, factors like budget, boat condition, and available storage space should be carefully evaluated to make the right investment.

10.2 Maintaining Your 420 Sailboat

Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your 420 sailboat in top-notch condition. Regular inspections, cleaning, and timely repairs contribute to its longevity and performance.

10.3 Cherishing the Sailing Memories

Owning a 420 sailboat is not just about the vessel itself but the unforgettable memories created on the water. Cherish the moments spent sailing, racing, and exploring new horizons.

420 sailboats have captivated sailors worldwide, offering a versatile and thrilling sailing experience. From competitive racing to leisurely cruising, the 420 sailboat has proven its mettle as a reliable and exciting dinghy. Whether you're an experienced sailor seeking a new challenge or a novice eager to learn the ropes, the 420 sailboat is ready to take you on a memorable adventure on the open waters.

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What Is a 420 Sailboat? (Here’s Everything You Need To Know)

Have you ever wondered what a 420 sailboat is? Are you looking for a boat thats perfect for racing and sailing? If so, youve come to the right place! In this article, well explore all aspects of the 420 sailboat, from its features and benefits to important tips for sailing and racing.

Well also discuss college sailing programs and their use of the 420 sailboat.

Whether youre a beginner sailor or an experienced racer, youll learn all you need to know about the 420 sailboat in this article.

So lets get started!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

A 420 sailboat is a two-person dinghy designed for racing.

It has a 14-foot hull and is designed with a wide beam for stability.

It is typically rigged with a spinnaker and jib, and is often considered to be a good choice for novice and intermediate sailors, as well as for competitive sailing.

What Is a 420 Sailboat?

A 420 sailboat is a two-person dinghy designed for sailing competitions and recreational sailing.

It is a lightweight and agile boat with a unique trapezoid-shaped sail that allows it to be used in a wide range of sailing conditions.

It is an incredibly popular model of boat among sailors of all ages and skill levels, making it a great choice for both competitive and recreational sailing.

The 420 sailboat is a versatile boat that can be used in a variety of different sailing scenarios.

Its trapezoid sail is designed to catch the wind and provide superior maneuverability and control, making it a great boat for racing and sport sailing.

The boat is also designed for easy handling and maneuverability, making it a great choice for novice sailors.

The 420 sailboat is also a popular choice for college sailing programs.

Its agility and maneuverability make it an excellent choice for aspiring sailors looking to take their sailing to the next level.

With its lightweight and easy to control design, the 420 sailboat is a great introduction to the world of competitive sailing.

In addition to its use in college sailing programs, the 420 sailboat is also used in a range of other sailing competitions and events.

Its trapezoid-shaped sail and lightweight design make it a great choice for a range of sailing scenarios, from racing to recreational sailing.

Overall, the 420 sailboat is a great choice for any sailor looking to take their sailing to the next level.

With its lightweight design and unique trapezoid-shaped sail, this boat is perfect for competitive and recreational sailing alike.

Whether youre a novice sailor or an experienced racer, the 420 sailboat is a great choice for any sailing enthusiast.

Features of a 420 Sailboat

The 420 sailboat is an excellent choice for those looking to take their sailing to the next level.

It is a high-performance two-person dinghy designed for racing and sport sailing, making it an ideal boat for a wide range of sailing conditions.

Its lightweight, agile build and unique trapezoid-shaped sail give it an edge over other boats in terms of speed and maneuverability.

Some of the features that make the 420 sailboat stand out include its long waterline length, low profile design, and its unique sail plan.

The boat has a hull length of around 13 feet and a waterline length of around 11 feet, giving it a longer waterline than most other dinghies and sailboats.

This helps it to perform better in longer races and on larger bodies of water.

Its low profile design makes it easy to handle, while its trapezoid-shaped sail provides plenty of power and stability, even in strong winds.

The 420 sailboat is also designed with a spacious cockpit, allowing for two crew members to sail the boat comfortably.

It also includes a self-draining cockpit, making it easy to bail out water in the event of a capsize.

Additionally, the 420 sailboat is equipped with adjustable outhauls and jibs, allowing for easy and precise sail trimming.

This makes it a great choice for both competitive and recreational sailing.

In addition, the 420 sailboat is popular with sailors of all ages and skill levels, making it a great boat for both beginner and experienced sailors.

It is also used in college sailing programs around the world, giving aspiring sailors the opportunity to hone their skills and take their sailing to the next level.

The boat is also a great choice for competitive sailing, as it is designed to be fast and maneuverable, giving it an edge over other boats in races.

Overall, the 420 sailboat is an excellent choice for those looking to take their sailing to the next level.

Additionally, its spacious cockpit and adjustable outhauls and jibs make it an ideal boat for both competitive and recreational sailing.

With its popularity among sailors of all ages and skill levels, the 420 sailboat is a great choice for aspiring sailors looking to hone their skills and take their sailing to the next level.

Benefits of Sailing a 420 Sailboat

Sailing a 420 sailboat offers a wide range of benefits, making it an ideal boat for competitive and recreational sailors alike.

For starters, the 420 sailboat is lightweight and agile, making it perfect for a range of sailing conditions.

The trapezoid-shaped sail also makes the boat easier to control, allowing sailors to make the most of their sailing experience.

In addition to its agility, the 420 sailboat is also incredibly durable and reliable, meaning it wont let you down in the middle of a race.

This makes it ideal for competitive sailing, as sailors can rely on their boat to perform consistently and reliably.

Lastly, the 420 sailboat is popular with sailors of all ages and skill levels, making it a great boat for both experienced and beginner sailors.

This means that aspiring sailors can start learning to sail on a 420 sailboat without feeling overwhelmed or intimidated.

Furthermore, the 420 sailboat is used in college sailing programs around the world, making it an excellent choice for aspiring sailors looking to take their sailing to the next level.

Overall, the 420 sailboat is an ideal boat for a range of sailing needs, whether youre a competitive sailor, recreational sailor, or an aspiring sailor looking to take their sailing to the next level.

With its lightweight and agile design, durable construction, and wide range of skill levels, the 420 sailboat is an excellent choice for any sailor.

Choosing a 420 Sailboat

When it comes to choosing a 420 sailboat, there are a few things to consider.

First, decide what type of sailing youll be doing.

If youre interested in competitive racing, then look for a boat that has a good reputation for performance, such as the Laser or the Optimist.

If youre more interested in recreational sailing, then the 420 may be the perfect boat for you.

It is lightweight and agile, making it ideal for a wide range of sailing conditions.

Next, consider the budget youre working with.

There are a wide range of prices for 420 sailboats, so its important to know what you can afford before making a purchase.

You should also look into the maintenance costs associated with owning a 420 sailboat.

Its important to factor in any additional costs associated with the boat, such as repairs, sails, and other equipment.

Finally, consider the skill level of you and your crew.

The 420 sailboat is designed for two people, so make sure you and your partner are able to work together as a team.

It can be a great way to learn the basics of sailing, as the boat is highly maneuverable and forgiving.

However, if youre looking to take your sailing to the next level, then the 420 is an excellent choice for aspiring sailors looking to hone their skills.

Choosing the right 420 sailboat is an important decision, and you should take the time to evaluate all of your options before making a purchase.

With the right boat, youll be ready to hit the water and explore the exciting world of sailing.

What Sailing Conditions Is a 420 Sailboat Good For?

The 420 sailboat is designed to be agile and lightweight, making it well-suited for a wide range of sailing conditions.

It is often used in college sailing programs, so it can handle a variety of weather and water conditions.

The trapezoid-shaped sail gives the boat an advantage in light winds, making it well-suited for lighter winds.

It is also able to handle heavier winds, as long as the sail is reefed appropriately.

The 420 sailboat is also great for racing, as the agile design and lightweight construction make it fast and responsive.

The boat is also suitable for recreational sailing, as it is an easy-to-maneuver boat that can be handled by sailors of all skill levels.

The 420 sailboat is also designed to be durable, making it a great choice for long-term sailing and racing.

All of these factors make the 420 sailboat a great choice for a wide range of sailing conditions.

College Sailing Programs and the 420 Sailboat

The 420 sailboat is an excellent choice for budding sailors looking to take their sailing to the next level and compete in college sailing programs.

This versatile and agile boat is popular with sailors of all ages and skill levels, making it a great option for recreational and competitive sailing.

With its unique trapezoid-shaped sail, the 420 is designed to perform well in a wide range of sailing conditions.

The 420 sailboat is used in college sailing programs around the world.

These programs are designed to provide aspiring sailors with the skills and knowledge they need to compete in collegiate sailing regattas.

The boat is also well-suited for team racing, a more advanced form of sailing in which two teams of sailors race against each other on the same course.

In college sailing programs, crew members learn the basics of sailing, including boat rigging, maneuvering, and racing tactics.

They also develop their knowledge of the rules and regulations of sailing, as well as the proper safety procedures.

Through sailing in college sailing programs, aspiring sailors can build their confidence on the water and hone their skills, all while competing with teams from other colleges.

The 420 sailboat is also used in various high school sailing programs.

These programs provide students with the opportunity to learn the basics of sailing and prepare for college sailing regattas and team racing.

High school sailing programs also help build teamwork and communication skills, as well as provide an introduction to the sport of sailing.

Overall, the 420 sailboat is an excellent choice for aspiring sailors looking to take their sailing to the next level.

It is a lightweight, agile boat with a unique trapezoid-shaped sail, making it ideal for a wide range of sailing conditions.

The boat is popular with sailors of all ages and skill levels, making it a great option for recreational and competitive sailing.

The 420 sailboat is used in college sailing programs around the world, making it an excellent choice for aspiring sailors looking to take their sailing to the next level.

Tips for Racing and Sailing a 420 Sailboat

Sailing a 420 sailboat is a thrilling experience, and it requires a special set of skills and knowledge to get the most out of the boat. Whether youre a competitive racer or a recreational sailor, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your 420 sailboat:

1. Learn the Basics: Before you even get in the boat, take the time to learn the basics of sailing. Knowing the ropes, how to trim the sails, and the basic rules of sailing will help you get the most out of your time on the water.

2. Practice Makes Perfect: Once you feel comfortable with the basics, its time to get out on the water and start practicing. The more time you spend practicing, the better youll become at sailing the 420.

3. Tune Your Boat: A properly tuned boat will perform better and be easier to sail. Make sure to check your rigging and sails for proper tension and trim.

4. Take Advantage of the Trapezoid: A 420 sailboat has a unique trapezoid-shaped sail, which gives it great performance in a wide range of wind conditions. Be sure to take advantage of this feature when youre sailing.

5. Balance the Boat: One of the main goals of sailing a 420 sailboat is to keep the boat balanced. Practice sailing with your weight evenly distributed across the boat, and move your weight to the windward side when tacking or gybing.

6. Use the Wind: A 420 sailboat is designed to take advantage of the wind, so be sure to use it to your advantage when sailing. Look for shifts in the wind and use them to your advantage when racing or just out for a leisurely sail.

7. Have Fun: Above all, dont forget to have fun! Sailing a 420 sailboat is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with friends. So, dont forget to enjoy it!

Final Thoughts

The 420 sailboat is an excellent choice for both recreational and competitive sailing.

With its lightweight and agile design, it is perfect for sailing in a variety of conditions.

It is also popular with college sailing programs, making it an ideal boat for aspiring sailors.

If you’re looking for a great boat for your sailing adventures, a 420 sailboat is a perfect choice.

So go ahead and explore the world of sailing with a 420 sailboat today!

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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• Sailboat Guide

420 is a 13 ′ 9 ″ / 4.2 m monohull sailboat designed by Christian Maury and built by Rondar Raceboats, Fountaine Pajot, Snapir Sailing Craft Ltd., MacKay Boats Ltd., Lanaverre, Johnson Boat Works, Far East Boat Co., Whitecap Composites, Xtreme Sailing Products, and Nautivela starting in 1959.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

One of the most successful sailing dinghies ever. (Only the SUNFISH or LASER can be considered in the same league.) Originally designed and built by Lanaverre of France. (They built 32,000 according to one source.) Licenses were later granted to other builders around the world. In 1996, the International Class agreed to amend the deck layout. 1 Trapeze permitted. Spinnaker: 97 sq.ft. There is a ‘Club’ version of heavier construction and slightly different dimensions.

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Youth Sailors, Take Notice. Meet The New Turbo 420

February 7, 2013 by Sail1Design Editor Leave a Comment

Mildly resembling that mad scientist from  Back to the Future , both in action and in thought, Fran Charles continues to push our community, and sometimes drag others, toward sailing innovation. Because it is often very comfortable to get stuck in the past, using antiquated ideas, equipment, and rules, over and over again, it is important to guard against complacency, and to look forward to new innovation and progress. For several decades now, through the MIT Sailing Pavilion , Fran has done just that, tirelessly focusing on making sailing better, more accessible, and more fun, especially for those that are the future of our sport: young sailors. From carbon Techs, FJ innovations, colored boats & sails, team racing management, to Fireflies, Fran has kept the thought curve moving forward. This latest innovation, however, will launch this spring much further north, at Mount Desert Island in Maine, where Fran serves as the summertime sailing master. In what will surely be an exciting development for the youth sailing world, Sail 1 Design introduces you to youth/institutional sailing’s Flux Capacitor, the   Rondar Turbo 420 , a 420 hybrid that in its development assumed (almost) nothing, re-evaluated everything, employs very modern construction techniques. This platform promises to be a great deal of fun for kids. This boat is being developed now at the Rondar boatbuilding facility in Peabody, Massachusetts. Sail 1 Design  plans to cover, first hand, the first ever high school regatta held in Turbo 420’s. Stay tuned right here.

THE FUTURE, FINALLY

While change simply for change’s sake can be bad, what may be worse is never changing, and never adapting. All too often we read about where, how and why the sailing community is dwindling, that regatta participation is down, we read articles about “saving sailing”, and the like. Simply put, at the youth level, to attract kids, sailing has to be, well, fun . We risk irrelevancy if we don’t at least attempt to keep up with technology and innovation curves that usher in exciting developments to our game. Youth sailing today, along with institutional sailing, is certainly well-organized, well-meaning, and competitive, but could it be better? Could it be more fun? Does it need to be better and more fun than it is now? If you imagine youth & instituational sailing today, from Opti sailing up through club 420’s and Lasers, to high school and college regattas, what words come to mind? Is holding on to the Opti, the club 420, the FJ, to the Laser, the thing to do simply because they are the platforms we’ve been using for so long? Is it time fundamentally to change the game? What are other countries doing? What about college sailing; how many post-collegiate sailors pack it in after their senior spring, never to return? Many complain of permanent “burn-out” and droning, over mechanical sailing. Given the recent conversations about official equipment (see recent articles posted at the bottom of this piece), might the Turbo 420, or LaserPerformance ‘s “New Collegiate 420” help re-energize college sailing by virtue of being a vastly higher performing boat? A good test would be to interview those that sail the unique Tech dinghies and Fireflies at MIT, or those that sail the carbon-rigged Larks at Tufts. Do these boats make college sailing more interesting, and/or better?  We welcome your comments at the bottom of this article.

For now, if one had to constructively criticize the vast pool of youth sailing, or institutional sailing, what might one say? The boats we are using for major youth sailing, and for high school & college sailing development, to put it diplomatically, are, well, old, and somewhat bland. Some argue we are not adequately preparing the top-end sailors, while others argue we are not engaging everyone else. And while adult, contemporary, forward-looking one-design classes have exploded, and many feature very modern design concepts, from composite construction to exciting rig development, our one-design kids and school sailors still too often are sailing around in the same boats their parents, and even grandparents, were. Not a bad thing, necessarily; for example the Lightning class is still as strong today, if not stronger, than it was years and years ago, and there is nothing wrong with a great class and association, regardless of age. However, even old, established classes have updated their philosophy and class rules to acknowledge, if grudgingly, progress. Furthermore, other than the 29er (which is very difficult for intermediate-level kids to sail and not for light air at all) what real options do we provide, or better yet even encourage, our most important generation? If our goal is to develop a life-long passion and a love for sailing in our youth, we need to employ business concepts that work for any successful corporate institution: we need listen to our clients.  If participation is down, or stagnant, then what are our next-generation sailors saying about sailing, and how well are we responding to their ideas?

THE NEXT-GEN DINGHY CONCEPT

In comes the new Rondar Turbo 420. It will be interesting to compare this boat to the “New Collegiate 420” that is now built by the official college championship dinghy supplier, LaserPerformance. (Please see our earlier article on this new LaserPerformance collegiate 420). The “Turbo” features very modern vacuum-bag resin-infusion construction techniques, producing a very strong, very light hull (50-70 lbs lighter than a club 420 hull). The hulls are brightly colored for looks and for team racing. Hen ry (“you can have any color Model-T as long as it is black”) Ford is rolling over in his grave. Rondar boats has vast experience with high performance dinghy construction, so the job is in good hands.

The rig is modernized, updated, ergonomic, and simple. Unlike it’s sistership, the Turbo 420, among other things, has thoughtfully updated jib leads, floating spinnaker poles, and a newer slightly higher aspect sail design for the jib. In its first deployment, the Turbo 420 will fulfill the mission of the Mount Desert Island Sailing consortium, spearheaded by the Northeast Harbor Fleet, the MDI Community Sailing Center  &  Fran Charles, known as the “ Great Harbor Dream .” The plan is to keep all 21 boats in one central location during the summer months, so that all clubs can take part, share, and benefit from being together with these new high performance boats. It reads: 

“The mission of the Great Harbor Dream is to bring together Mount Desert Island’s youth 420 sailors. By rallying the various resources of local yacht clubs in one location for instruction, we will foster a compelling and fun teaching environment and create  beneficial learning opportunities through more competitive racing. Bringing our sailors together will potentially reduce the operating costs of our collective sailing programs, more effectively use the 420’s we own during peak seasonal demand, and inspire  and challenge our area youth by jointly promoting 420 sailing in the Great Harbor for generations to come.”

While teen social community building is the overall focus, the Turbo 420 is the real tangible key to making it happen on the water. Fran explains: “To further stimulate The Great Harbor Dream we made a decision to abandon the Club 420 Class boat and create a boat that would be more durable, much faster, safer by making changes to the rigging yet simple and easy to rig/de-rig.” These are not at all standard 420s but a hybrid which will be much more lively, fun, AND durable than any of the equipment on the market today. And, they cost virtually the same as club 420s.”

TAKING A CLOSER LOOK

SAILS – Sail designers from North Sails visited the builder to review the Turbo’s newly designated jib fairlead location. It is a bit further forward and inboard from the current position to get the cleat out of the sailors butt (crews, this is a welcome upgrade!) and to make it easier to release the jib sheet while tacking in big breeze. This will also eliminate the need for weather sheeting. The jib will be a bit longer on the leech, shorter on the foot and fuller hoist. This will simulate sheeting on a 470 or a 505 so the transition to higher performance dinghies will be more natural. Ample windows will be supplied on both sails. The sails will have out-of-the-box factory options for colored graphics and very large colored numbers on them. The mainsail will have the top two battens full length, a low-profile foam pad in the head to keep them from going turtle and a reef point for breezy conditions. Spins will be white and also offer a colored custom graphic (think: your club burgee or logo here).

North Sails Marblehead has done extensive rig analysis for the Turbo. Above, the Turbo rig model being run in 9 knots TWS. This extensive VPP modeling work was done to determine exactly where and how much to move inboard the jib fairleads, how that would affect main trim, and how best to set up the entire rig plan and sail shape. Pretty cool. These images are shown courtesy of North Sails, and lead designers on this project Doug Slocum & Will Welles.

FOILS – Cassette style heavy duty rudder head which remains bolted to back of boat. Rudder and centerboard will be epoxy cored, and very durable. Rudders to float. Centerboard to have both uphaul and downhaul lines and cleats. Hull will also feature recessed centerboard gaskets to alleviate gasket damage when boats are stored/dragged on their hulls.

RIGGING – The Turbo 420 spar will be approximately 6″ longer than current 420, however the hounds height will remain the same from  deck level. This will get boom higher and reduce head impact and likelihood of concussive head injuries. Spars will be Selden with the innovative gnav kicker system which pushes down instead of pulling down, a stainless-steel fixed gooseneck, 3mm sidestays, 2.5mm trap wires and quick release safety harnesses in a variety of sizes.

CONSTRUCTION – The Rondar Turbo 420, as mentioned earlier, will employ high-end construction techniques, separating it from virtually all other institutional youth sailing dinghies. The precision-oriented vacuum bag, resin-infusion system creates an extremely strong, very light product when finished. The whole process takes as little as 90 minutes. 

Above, the vacuum pump is humming and the vinylester resin is bled into the layup. Full saturation and nothing more. No air bubbles (voids). The whole saturation process takes about 20 minutes. Ki cks off hard in 90 minutes. All up weight of boats will probably be in the neighborhood of  185-190lbs. This is 50 lbs less than club 420 rule and 70 lbs less than most.

  Unless that guy is really, really strong, this boat is really light.

PUTTING IT IN PLAY

A collective effort of several Maine sailing clubs created the drive to purchase twenty-one new Turbo 420s. The goal is to rejuvenate youth sailing, retain and invigorate current sailors, and attract new up-and-coming sailors to the sport. The goal also is to promote a centralized, color-coded fleet for team racing, which encourages this up-and-coming part of the sport. Explains Fran, “In sailing, as in many sports, there is a dropout rate as the participants get into their teenage years. By creating a cohesive, centralized, team race-ready, exciting to sail fleet, the hope is that teens will stay with the sport a bit longer.” Time is ticking down to the launch of this new fleet. The first event scheduled is a high school regatta this spring, and then they’re off to their summer duty as a collective youth sailing fleet. Part of the logic of this boat, and future fleets they will assuredly inspire, is also to lend themselves well to team racing, which many young sailors love, and see as a fun alternative to racing around in long ovals in indistinguishable boats.  Will it catch on?

THE DINOSAURS HAD THEIR CHANCE

The Turbo 420 hybrid represents a bold, unapologetic embrace of next generation youth dinghy concepts, designed to continue to stimulate our young sailors not only to enjoy the sport but to stick with it. Some will see it as a threat to the establishment, and others may call for even more changes. To wit, why not make this Turbo 420 have an asymmetrical spinnaker with retractable pole? This is easier to rig and to sail, arguably a lot more fun, and clearly (just look at the J/70) the wave of our downwind future. Change is coming. Acknowledge, accept, debate, embrace, and then apply wisely, or risk obsolescence, or worse.

Our kids aren’t as impressed with our toys as we onc e were, especially in the rapidly changing landscape of the 21st century. You may not like it, but someday Google may well be driving all of our “cars”. There is an argument to be made that for the future of sailing, we need to learn to adapt our approach to our next generation to survive. Nothing lasts forever, and this boat moves us to that discussion.

Happy Sailing.

To research some similar concepts and debates, we suggest the following:

Meet the New Collegiate 420 , by Zach Brown. This article analyzes the new collegiate 420 built by LaserPerformance.

The Firefly Returns to the Charles , by Dan Rabin. This article profiles the forward-thinking MIT sailing dinghy, the Firefly.

Controversy in the ICSA: The Future of the College Sailing Dinghy .  This article explores the recent decision by the ICSA to standardize championship equipment based on boat builder.

Zim Sailing Responds to ICSA Sponsorship/Championship Boat Agreement . This editorial from Zim Sailing offers thoughts on the ICSA boat decision.

Rondar Boats .  You can learn more about the Turbo 420 here.

The Sail1Design Turbo 420 Poll . Take our poll and see where people stand.

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