The Sprite Dinghy is a popular sailing boat in the United Kingdom. It is a small, lightweight, and versatile dinghy that is commonly used for recreational sailing, racing, and training purposes.
The Sprite Dinghy was designed by Ian Proctor, a renowned British boat designer, in the 1960s. It was initially manufactured by the company Fairey Marine and later by other boatbuilders, including Rondar Boats and Hartley Boats. The boat's design is known for its simplicity, stability, and ease of handling, making it suitable for sailors of all skill levels, including beginners.
The Sprite Dinghy has a length of approximately 3.6 meters (12 feet) and a beam of around 1.5 meters (5 feet). It features a single sail, typically a mainsail, which is easy to control and provides good performance in various wind conditions. The boat's hull is made of fiberglass, ensuring durability and low maintenance.
One of the notable features of the Sprite Dinghy is its self-draining cockpit, which allows water to drain out of the boat, making it safer and more comfortable to sail. The boat also has a centerboard or daggerboard that can be raised or lowered to adjust the boat's stability and maneuverability.
The Sprite Dinghy is often used for racing in various sailing clubs across the UK. It has its own class association, the Sprite Dinghy Association, which organizes events, championships, and provides support to Sprite Dinghy owners. The boat's design allows for easy transportation on a trailer, making it convenient for sailors to take it to different sailing locations.
Overall, the Sprite Dinghy is a popular choice for those looking for a small, affordable, and versatile sailing boat in the UK. Its simplicity, stability, and ease of handling make it suitable for both beginners and experienced sailors, and its active class association ensures a vibrant community and racing scene.
