Desert Mariner

Thanks, Don. I didn't see your post until now. I'm pretty sure that a Spindrift would be an excellent boat and likely faster under sail than a Mirror. Alan has corresponded with me with observations comparing the rig and hulls of the boats. I've found an inexpensive Mirror dinghy available in the US. I'll likely try that boat out before I commit to building a small boat. What has emerged in my searches has been a confirmed commitment to a smaller, lighter boat in the 12-14 foot range. I've spent too many nights anchored when I've lost sleep, and many, many days in remote areas when I was glad I was able to pull boats ashore due to wind and sea conditions. I've come to believe that vessels that can be pulled ashore easily are the sweet spot for traveling in small boats . . . and I'll likely use them more often than my current 19-20 foot trailer sailors. Dave

Andy B - Thanks so much for taking the time to reply. Sorry for the delay in my response. Your post was very informative. Dave

Hi, all. I'm looking to get some first hand experience in a Core Sound MK3 before I decide to pursue a build. I want to experience the sailing characteristics as well as check out the interior space. Is there anyone in the PNW who would be willing to meet up for a day sail? I'll be based near Seattle for a couple of weeks from August 1-15 and then on a cruise of the San Juan Islands from Sept 3 - 14 in my Drascombe Lugger. I'm also traveling for business to the Annapolis area around August 18-27 and could meet up for an evening sail most nights during my trip. I've got experience in a wide range of boats from sailing canoes to large, luxury catamarans. I teach sailing occasionally, including open boat, expeditionary sailing. I used to own a Sea Pearl 21, so I appreciate the cat ketch plan. I'd be happy to trade time on my Lugger in exchange. It's a lovely boat as well . . . Thanks for considering.

Thanks, Don. That's good to know.

Hi, all. I'm wondering if anyone can offer me a comparison between the Mirror Dinghy and the Spindrift 12. To my untrained eye, the boats seem very similar in terms of weight, beam and length. Obviously, the bow is different. My goal is to use the boat as a standalone sailboat (not a tender) for day sailing with my wife and for solo dinghy cruising under sail and oar. I want to be able to car top the boat as well as transporting it on a simple trailer. I really like the larger B&B boats, but my garage is small and I already have two small sailboats on trailers. I'm especially interested in opinions and ideas from those who have sailed both Mirrors and Spindrifts. Thanks, Dave