Dyer Dink Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Dyer Dink began in 1934, emerging from The Anchorage, Inc., founded by William J. H. Dyer in Warren, Rhode Island. Initially, these dinghies were crafted with traditional wood lapstrake construction, showcasing the craftsmanship prevalent at the time. However, Dyer Boats quickly became a pioneer in the adoption of fiberglass, later modifying the Dink for fiberglass construction, a testament to the company's forward-thinking approach and its commitment to durable, lightweight designs.

The Dyer Dink, along with its siblings like the Dyer Dhow and Midget, became defining American-designed and built dinghies, setting a high standard for versatility and craftsmanship. Philip L. Rhodes, the designer, was known for his underlying design principles that emphasized well-crafted, seaworthy vessels, a philosophy perfectly aligned with Dyer's ethos to "build a quality boat." The Dink's design, which includes a centerboard, allowed for both excellent sailing characteristics and practical use as a tender, often accompanying larger yachts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its diminutive size, the Dyer Dink is highly regarded for its spirited performance and forgiving handling characteristics, making it popular for both racing and recreational use. With a length overall of 10.0 feet and a sail area of 66 square feet, the Dink features a cat rig and a centerboard, a combination that offers impressive agility and responsiveness. Its hull, whether in its original wood lapstrake or later fiberglass iteration, is known for stability, making it an excellent platform for learning to sail or for competitive frostbite racing. Sailors frequently praise its balance and behavior, even in challenging conditions, which contributes to its status as a favored one-design class in many areas. The ability to serve double duty as a classic yacht tender further underscores its practical and versatile design.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 10-foot open sailing dinghy, the Dyer Dink prioritizes functionality and open space over enclosed accommodations. The layout is simple and effective, designed for ease of use whether under sail, oar, or tow. Standard features often include bronze oarlocks, oars, and a painter, emphasizing its utility as a tender. For sailing, it comes equipped with a complete rig, including spars, a white sail, a centerboard with a lever, a rudder, and a tiller. The open cockpit provides ample space for its maximum capacity of 740 pounds, accommodating multiple occupants or gear with stability. While not designed for an interior in the traditional sense, some owners opt for custom cushions to enhance comfort, reflecting its role as a versatile small craft.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dyer Dink consistently laud its solid construction and the enduring quality synonymous with Dyer Boats. Many appreciate its longevity, with boats from various eras remaining actively sailed, often sought after for their potential for refurbishment and continued use. The Dink is particularly celebrated for its robust build, which allows it to withstand the rigors of frequent use, including frostbite racing in colder temperatures. Common praises revolve around its stable and forgiving nature under sail, making it accessible to a wide range of skill levels while still offering an engaging sailing experience. The strong community around one-design Dyer Dink fleets further highlights the boat's appeal and the camaraderie among its owners.