Redwing (National Redwing) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Redwing begins in 1939, when the Looe Sailing Club commissioned Uffa Fox to design a dinghy that was not only fast and fun to sail but also exceptionally sturdy and capable in open seas. This design brief underscored a philosophy focused on seaworthiness and performance, a hallmark of many of Uffa Fox's creations. The Redwing quickly gained popularity, particularly throughout the West of England, and by 1947, it had been adopted as a principal local one-design racing class.

While there have been minor adjustments over its long production run, the fundamental hull design of the Redwing has remained largely unchanged, with new boats still built precisely to the original plans. GoodWood Boat Co. upholds this tradition, specializing in the authentic, handcrafted construction of classic wooden dinghies. Their commitment to using responsibly managed and ethically sourced timber ensures that these classic designs are perpetuated with modern standards of craftsmanship and sustainability, maintaining the Redwing's distinctive wooden hull and deck.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size with a length overall (LOA) and waterline length (LWL) of 14 feet, the National Redwing is recognized as an "outstandingly brave little boat." Designed as a racing dinghy, it is celebrated for its seaworthiness, especially in the steep open seas often encountered off the Cornish coast. Owners and enthusiasts consistently praise its ability to handle challenging conditions, attributing this to its robust design and stable characteristics. The Redwing is typically sailed by a crew of two and features a straightforward Bermudan sloop rig, making it accessible yet competitive. Anecdotal evidence suggests the designer aimed for a slightly more speedy hull, contributing to its lively performance.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 14-foot racing dinghy, the National Redwing features an open cockpit layout typical of its class, prioritizing performance and crew functionality over enclosed accommodations. There is no enclosed cabin or dedicated interior living space in the traditional sense, and headroom is not applicable. The design focuses on a clear, uncluttered cockpit that allows for efficient handling of sails and crew movement during racing and day sailing. The simple yet effective design ensures that all essential controls are within easy reach, reflecting its primary purpose as a spirited, one-design racer.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the National Redwing consistently express a deep admiration for its seaworthiness and competitive spirit. The boat's robust nature allows it to stand up to significant wind and waves, making it a reliable choice for racing and challenging conditions. The active National Redwing Dinghy Association, with its vibrant community, underscores the strong owner loyalty and the boat's enduring appeal. Owners often highlight the joy of sailing such a responsive and engaging classic. While specific "common problems" are not widely documented beyond general maintenance expected of wooden boats, the strong owner network and availability of new builds from specialists like GoodWood Boat Co. ensure support for preserving these cherished craft.