Spindrift size

[davidpm]

What would be the recommended size for a spindrift to store on deck of a 30' Catalina?

I'm assuming a nested model.

[Garry]

The quick answer is 8 or 9 ft. But there is a lot to consider.

I think Graham provides the nested dimensions so you should first select the location on deck and see how those dimensions work. Maybe even make up a cardboard box to a nested shape with those dimensions to see how it would work. This will help to give you an idea how much forward vision is blocked.

I found that I usually towed the dinghy except for long offshore trips. The Spindrift tows with little drag but it will surf up behind you when coming in an inlet.

I built an 11 footer to stow on my 36 foot ketch. It was a little heavy to handle each section. I recommend you keep it simple and light. Take a look at Ray Henry's dinghy at http://seaweed.thebilge.com/spindrift.htm for a great example.

[Hirilonde]

Well, the Spindrift comes in 9, 10, 11 and 12, but the 12 doesn't have a nesting version.  I'm not sure why, you'll have to ask Graham that one.  I have a 9N and can just stow it on the fore deck of my Renegade, a 27 footer.  I tow it for the most part, but I like knowing I can stow it on deck.  I like small.  I would probably have a 9N as a  tender vs larger ones for boats up well into the 30 foot range.  I would definitely have a 9N for a 30 footer.  The 9N sails well with 2 people and rows with 3, maybe 4 (depending on weight of people).  You never know when researching something like a tender whether you will pick the ideal design. But having used mine for a season, I know I picked at least one of the best designs for a hard tender for a small cruising boat. 

[Garry]

When I asked Graham why he didn't offer a nesting 12 footer, his reply was that no one has requested one yet. Ther is no reason it couldn't be done. The centerboard must be redesigned to keep the center of effort since the trunk is in a different location.

Hirilond