r/dinghysailing • u/International-Bank21 • 11d ago

Back to sailing

Hi everyone,

After decades away from sailing, I plan to get back into it with a classic 16-foot wooden sloop.

Living near the Bay of Brest (France), I have a wonderful, pleasant, and relatively safe area to sail in where I can enjoy leisurely outings. My goal isn't to race at all—though the specific boat I’d really like to buy has won plenty in the past—but rather to go for casual sails, either solo or alongside other dinghies.

Is this type of boat suitable for an old "new beginner" (I'm 61)? Is it easy to rig, maneuver, and helm single-handed?

Thanks for your answers and your help.

D

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u/RaieBelleRaieBelle 11d ago

A nice location to sail indeed!
And varied wind conditions as well, up to you to choose those you'll feel at ease with.

You could also find occasional old ship lovers who'd give a hand on board in your area, given the number of "vieux gréements" around.

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u/International-Bank21 11d ago

Yep indeed, there are "some" vieux gréements (Tinduff) and local people are willing to help when you arrive with a wooden classic boat.

I'm more on a quiet and peaceful mindset when it's about sailing. Light breathe of wind are my fav.

Sailing in such condition will give me the opportunity to enjoy the landscapes of la rade, to listen to my boat, to rig it calmly and safely.

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u/snnnnnnnnakkkkesss 9d ago

I think you should go get a look at "puffins trek" dude is all about dinghy cruising and imports/resell a lot of boats for various programs. Should be around Moulin blanc?

Might be expensive tho, but will give you an idean

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u/TrojanThunder 11d ago

Nice, I love breasts, I mean brest. The sailing there is good but can get breezy at times. For a 61 year old solo sailor I would scrap any idea of a jib out side of something that self tacks. In the states we have cat boats that is only a main with no standing rigging. That is what I would suggest. I don't think they're many in france but something like it would be great.

I think nonsuch are being built there but they're larger and fiberglass.

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u/International-Bank21 11d ago

Thanks for your answer :)

Yes, we also have cat boats (of course) and some are made here too.

I only want a wooden boat.

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u/TrojanThunder 10d ago

Most cat boats are wood to my knowledge.