Boat snob

Thanks for the great responses. I sail at Chichester.  They have a very active Solo fleet, like most clubs several Lasers and then an assortment that make up the handicap fleet.

Solo does look rather dull though perhaps I can be convinced that pipe and slippers are not compulsory!

Yes, my laser sailing has been all on holiday boats so probably not a good representation of the breed though I still feel laser could do with an update from scratch rather than just incremental changes - sort of a Pico with more punch. I did wonder about the Rooster 8.1 mod though.

I like the RS300 but wonder what the learning curve is like on one and how much wind I could cope with.  Stability doesn't look to be on the menu of features.  Chap at RS said it is a lot more extreme than the RS600 for example.

The Blaze ticks a lot of my needs so is certainly on the shortlist.

Perhaps Phil I should also take a look at the Vareo again despite the sl*gging it gets here.

Streaker looks pretty but rather high on PY at 1162 which is even higher than the Solo at 1155.

The Solution is very appealing though I have not seen one in the flesh.

Phantom still loks rather a beast.  Similar sail area to the Blaze but without the wings to help keep the power under control by getting out far enough.

Originally posted by vscott And every owner will promote their own class

Nah, don't get a Contender they're rubbish.

Many a thread on this all ready.

As Rick says check your local club out and what classes are being sailed. You will probably enjoy racing boat on boat far more than on your own. You will also find most club members gladly offering help and advice on the same class of boat you chose.

At your weight you have a really good range of boats open to you and my little personal plug would be the RS300 (Identical weight to our current national champion). Light responsive fast and real fun if a little challenging. It has often been said of the 300 that it is a boat you will find yourself sailing purely for fun  and all ways coming off the water with a smile.

Good luck with your choice.

Most experienced sailors don't consider the likes of the RS Vision a serious boat. Manufacturers main market is the holiday companies and people that don't know any better. (Helmet now secure and awaiting incoming abuse.)

Laser not a real boat? Try sailing it properly! If you have only sailed a Laser on holiday there is no comparision with a top spec GXD. I bought my first Laser in 1977 and apart from the rubbish sail (but that's a different story) it keeps getting better.

I personally would not consider a two man boat for regular single handed sailing.

What about a cat such as a Sprint 15 or Shadow? No space issues when sailing 2 up.

As always your decision really depends on where you are going to be sailing. If you are a club member it's always a good idea to join an existing class rather than to do your own thing.