Flying Dutchman Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Flying Dutchman was the brainchild of Dutch designers Conrad Gülcher and Uus Van Essen, who introduced the boat in 1951. Its design was swiftly adopted as an International Class in 1952, marking its rapid ascent in the sailing world. The era of the Flying Dutchman's rise coincided with significant advancements in boat building materials. Lanaverre, the builder of many of these iconic dinghies, was at the forefront of this revolution, becoming one of the pioneers of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP), or fiberglass, construction. This innovative approach allowed for more consistent boat performance and enabled the mass production of the Flying Dutchman, thereby contributing to its widespread adoption and competitive success. The design remained remarkably consistent as a strict one-design class throughout its long and illustrious Olympic career.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Flying Dutchman is renowned for its high-performance capabilities, characterized by its design as a two-man trapeze dinghy equipped with a large genoa. This configuration allows for significant sail area relative to its lightweight hull, contributing to its impressive speed and agility on the water. Described as a demanding, fast, and modern regatta dinghy, the Flying Dutchman requires a high level of skill from its crew, particularly in strong winds. Despite its dynamic nature, the boat is noted for behaving with remarkable stability, and with practiced feel, it is surprisingly manageable to sail. Its sleek and elegant lines hint at the exhilarating experience it offers, making it a favorite among competitive sailors seeking a challenging and rewarding ride.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 20-foot high-performance racing dinghy, the Flying Dutchman is primarily focused on its competitive function rather than providing internal accommodations. The design prioritizes a spacious and functional cockpit layout, optimized for two crew members—a skipper and a crew member who often utilizes a trapeze to balance the boat against the significant sail power. The open deck plan is meticulously arranged to facilitate efficient sail handling, trim adjustments, and crew movement during racing maneuvers. Storage is minimal, typically limited to small compartments for essential gear, reflecting its purpose as a day racer rather than a cruising vessel. The construction, often incorporating fiberglass and wood composite, emphasizes lightness and structural integrity to withstand the rigors of high-speed sailing.