Flicka Dinghies

There aren't too many options for a dinghy on a small sailing boat. Space is limited below and there is nowhere to store a rigid dinghy because the cabin top is too small. Davits are only really suitable on a larger boat.

There are some out there who are happy towing their dinghy from anchorage to anchorage. But I've seen them fighting an unruly dinghy in a squall and I just don't think it's a seaworthy option. Even on a mooring I've been forced by wind and waves to ship and stow the dinghy in the middle of the night for fear of losing it.

However, there are still some other possibilites. Firstly, there is the inflatable and secondly there is the folding dinghy.

Well, in my experience most inflatable boats are pretty bulky apart from the very small ones or the canoes. I had a Sevylor inflatable canoe (below) which was affectionately known as 'The Crocodile'.

I liked the Crocodile for two reasons, firstly, when deflated it took up very little space and fit under the v berth on my Flicka. Secondly, it was easy to paddle in a strong wind.

The Origami folding dinghy rows better than most ordinary inflatables and there's a sailing version too. I built one using the plans by Wooden Widget.

Here's a picture of 'Carawee' TT Caraway. It's straightforward to make even if you've got very limited wood working experience.

It's quicker and easier to use a nice wood faced ply for the sides and then just varnish the whole thing like this red cedar version.

Red cedar is also lighter than teak, just as strong and resistant to rot too.

If you are interested in finding out more about the Origami Folding dinghy then follow the link below to purchase a set of plans.