Laser SB3 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Laser SB3 traces back to 1999 when Tony Castro was commissioned by Laser to design a modern three-person keelboat. Entering production in 2004, the SB3 was an immediate success, rapidly gaining popularity across Europe and earning recognition, including being selected as Sailing World's "Boat of the Year" in 2008. The design brief aimed for a boat that combined the dynamic feel of a high-performance dinghy with the stability of a keelboat, ensuring ease of handling and a level playing field for racers. This commitment to one-design principles, fostering competitive yet fun racing, aligns with the philosophy of many prominent builders in the UK racing scene. A significant evolution in its history saw the Laser SB3 later renamed to the SB20, driven by market changes and a shift in builder and sales distribution.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Laser SB3 is engineered for performance, featuring an epoxy foam-cored hull laminate that contributes to its light displacement of 1,510 lbs. Its fractional sloop rig and a reported sail area of 294 square feet provide ample power, enabling stellar light-air performance. With a length overall of just over 20 feet and a waterline length of 18.04 feet, the SB3 boasts a theoretical hull speed of 5.69 knots. However, its design allows for exhilarating planing speeds, with some sailors reporting speeds of up to 20 knots in strong winds, though this demands skilled sail handling.

A key design feature enhancing its accessibility and performance is the lifting keel and easily retractable outboard rudder, which make the SB3 remarkably easy to trailer and launch. The boat is noted for its exceptional stability, providing a secure platform even when sailing hard. Its cockpit layout is clean and uncluttered, with all controls ergonomically placed for easy access by the crew, and it is designed to be sailed "legs-in," further emphasizing its high-performance dinghy feel. Downwind sailing in the SB3 is frequently praised by owners and reviewers as a particularly exhilarating experience.

Accommodations and Layout

As a dedicated sportboat, the Laser SB3 prioritizes performance and on-deck functionality over interior accommodations. The design features a clean, uncluttered cockpit, optimized for crew movement and efficient sail handling during racing. While not designed for overnight cruising, the boat does include secure access hatch storage, which can accommodate an outboard motor or other essential gear. The absence of significant headroom or a cabin typical of cruising sailboats underscores its primary purpose as a fast, three-person day racer.