Winnipesaukee Forum - View Single Post

Winnipesaukee · 10-02-2007, 07:20 PM

Buy used. $5000 for a brand new Laser is a waste unless you need a perfect hull and rig for racing. You get used ones for as little as $600 and up.

If you don't mind me asking, about what do the aspiring sailors weigh? The reason i ask is that some rigs may be too overpowered (such as the full size Laser for me; I sail a smaller-sail Radial). You may also weigh too much for the rig/hull.

You can't go wrong with a Sunfish, either. Might I recommend an O'Day Daysailor, Blue Jay, or an N-10 (aka National 10).

I think a Laser would be too fast for the lake (you'll have to change direction every few seconds). It is also NOT a boat for absolute beginners. If you get your heart set on one, though, take some sailing lessons. Then, when you're comfortable with the basics, a Laser would be no problem to handle. They're just too powerful and "tender." When you're learning the basic skills, you shouldn't have to worry about capsizing.

I say go for the Sunfish. It's more or less indestructable, easy to learn on, quick to rig, fun to sail and race, and there are tons of them for sale. They run about $3500 new--not worth it.

10-02-2007, 07:20 PM	#4
Winnipesaukee Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 233 Thanks: 14 Thanked 16 Times in 12 Posts	Buy used. $5000 for a brand new Laser is a waste unless you need a perfect hull and rig for racing. You get used ones for as little as $600 and up. If you don't mind me asking, about what do the aspiring sailors weigh? The reason i ask is that some rigs may be too overpowered (such as the full size Laser for me; I sail a smaller-sail Radial). You may also weigh too much for the rig/hull. You can't go wrong with a Sunfish, either. Might I recommend an O'Day Daysailor, Blue Jay, or an N-10 (aka National 10). I think a Laser would be too fast for the lake (you'll have to change direction every few seconds). It is also NOT a boat for absolute beginners. If you get your heart set on one, though, take some sailing lessons. Then, when you're comfortable with the basics, a Laser would be no problem to handle. They're just too powerful and "tender." When you're learning the basic skills, you shouldn't have to worry about capsizing. I say go for the Sunfish. It's more or less indestructable, easy to learn on, quick to rig, fun to sail and race, and there are tons of them for sale. They run about $3500 new--not worth it. __________________ Sail fast, live slow!