Wanderer (Dinghy) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Wanderer was designed by Ian Proctor in August 1978, with production commencing in 1965, predating its official design date in some records, indicating a potential earlier conceptualization or initial production run before formal design finalization. A core objective of the design was to produce a "robust, safe and versatile dinghy that could be used for knockabout day sailing and cruising as well as racing." The initial brief for the Wanderer reportedly came from Margaret Dye, a prominent small boat cruiser who sought a lighter dinghy than the Wayfarer. The original design aimed for stability and ease of handling, crucial for family sailing and those new to the sport.

Hartley Boats acquired the rights to the Wanderer design in November 2006. Reflecting their commitment to continuous improvement without compromising a design's spirit, Hartley Boats commissioned top dinghy designer Phil Morrison to update the interior of the Wanderer in 2008. This modernization aimed to enhance the boat's ergonomics and functionality, addressing previous owner feedback regarding aspects like a slippery floor and the boat being difficult to right after capsize, which would leave it full of water. These updates have resulted in a modern, attractive, and easy-to-manage craft that benefits from contemporary dinghy design and building techniques while retaining the fundamental stability of Proctor's original hull.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hartley Wanderer, with its 14-foot length and fiberglass hull, is celebrated for its excellent handling characteristics, making it particularly suitable for beginners to gain confidence quickly. Its chined hull design, a hallmark of Ian Proctor's work, contributes significantly to its stability. Owners and reviewers frequently highlight the Wanderer as one of the most stable dinghies in its size class, capable of standing up to two adults on its side deck without capsizing. This inherent stability also translates into a forgiving ride, making it a reliable choice for sailing in varied conditions, including bigger seas and winds, instilling confidence that the boat can handle challenging environments. While some early iterations might have felt heavy compared to more performance-oriented dinghies like the Kestrel, the modern Hartley Wanderer is noted for its responsiveness and solid construction.

The boat's design allows for a total sail area of 115 square feet, providing ample power for enjoyable sailing. The option of a ballasted centerboard, which can increase displacement from 300 lbs to as much as 360 lbs, further enhances its stability and overall feel on the water. The Wanderer can be fitted with a spinnaker of 107 sq ft, adding an extra dimension for racing enthusiasts.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 14-foot sailing dinghy, the Hartley Wanderer is designed for day sailing, training, and club racing, meaning "accommodations" primarily refer to its cockpit layout and storage. The interior re-design by Phil Morrison focused on improving user experience. This included addressing issues such as a slippery floor, ensuring a safer and more comfortable environment for sailors.

The cockpit is generally spacious for its size, offering comfortable seating for multiple occupants. Hartley Boats offers options such as back seats and a rear storage box. This rear storage is practical for stowing an outboard engine, dry clothes, and other cruising essentials. The solid fiberglass construction ensures good stiffness and long-term durability, with the GRP material being easy to maintain. The emphasis is on a functional, uncluttered space that facilitates ease of movement and operation during sailing. Additional accessories for storage, such as aft storage lockers, are available, enhancing its utility for extended day trips or cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Wanderer for its exceptional stability and forgiving nature, often deeming it an ideal choice for families, training, and those new to sailing. It is frequently described as a safe and popular dinghy, with "excellent handling characteristics" that allow beginners to gain confidence rapidly. The Wanderer Class Owners Association is active, fostering a strong community for both racing and social events, which is a significant draw for owners.

A common strength highlighted is its robust construction, which contributes to long-term durability and ease of maintenance due to its GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) build. For those interested in cruising, the ability to fit an outboard engine and additional storage options are well-regarded features. The updated Phil Morrison design is appreciated for modernizing the boat's interior and addressing previous design limitations, such as the boat holding too much water after a capsize. While some might find it less "racy" than lighter dinghies, its stability and versatility for general purpose sailing are almost universally lauded.