Laser Pico Information, Review, Specs

The Laser Pico began its production run in 1995, emerging from LaserPerformance's design philosophy of creating durable, user-friendly, and performance-oriented dinghies. Designer Jo Richards conceived the Pico to provide an approachable entry point into sailing. LaserPerformance, a builder with a strong heritage in popular one-design classes, aimed to produce boats that were easy to rig, maintain, and sail, catering to both beginners and those seeking recreational fun.

The hull of the Pico is constructed using a process that yields superb durability and reasonable stiffness at a modest cost, often utilizing polyethylene for its robust properties. This robust construction makes the Pico particularly well-suited for the rigors of sailing school environments and frequent beaching. While the standard Laser Pico features a Dacron mainsail, an upgraded version, known as the Laser Pico Race, was also offered. This race variant distinguished itself with a larger Mylar mainsail, a vang with a 4:1 purchase, and enhanced blocks, offering a more performance-oriented sailing experience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Given its compact size, the Laser Pico is engineered for stability and ease of handling, rather than high-performance racing metrics typically associated with larger yachts. Its design incorporates a stable hull, a large self-draining cockpit, and high boom clearance, all contributing to a comfortable and forgiving sailing experience. These characteristics make the Pico a preferred choice for sailing schools and families, allowing it to accommodate two teenagers or a large adult with ease.

The boat's fractional sloop rig, combined with its daggerboard and rudder, provides a straightforward and responsive feel on the water. The easily reefed mainsail is a significant advantage, allowing sailors to quickly adjust to changing wind conditions and further enhancing its suitability as a training vessel. While some experienced sailors might describe its performance as "dull" compared to more aggressive designs, this perception underscores its stable and predictable nature, which is highly beneficial for learning and recreational sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

As a small dinghy designed for day sailing, the Laser Pico does not feature enclosed accommodations in the traditional sense. Instead, its layout is focused on an open, functional, and user-friendly cockpit. The large self-emptying cockpit is a key feature, ensuring that any water taken aboard quickly drains away, enhancing safety and convenience.

However, some owners have noted that the cockpit's depth is not substantial, which can lead to a somewhat hunched posture for taller sailors over extended periods. The boat provides ample deck space for its size, designed for easy movement and operation of controls. The hull is typically white, with deck color options including grey, teal, and mango, offering a degree of personalization. Essential deck fittings, such as the mainsheet padeye and mast gate claw, are robustly integrated to withstand the demands of training and active use.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Laser Pico for its exceptional durability and robust construction. Its ability to withstand the rigors of learning environments and frequent beaching without significant damage is a commonly cited strength. Many consider it an ideal training boat, highlighting its popularity among younger sailors and families as a perfect platform for learning the fundamentals of sailing. The boat's stable and forgiving nature is consistently appreciated, making it a confidence-builder for novices.

Conversely, a recurring point of critique among some owners pertains to the effectiveness of the standard jib, which is occasionally described as inadequate or a "joke" for serious sailing. Additionally, the relatively shallow cockpit can lead to discomfort, with some individuals reporting a phenomenon playfully dubbed "Pico knee" due to the cramped space. Despite these minor criticisms, the general consensus among the sailing community underscores the Pico's value as a reliable, fun, and accessible sailboat that effectively serves its primary purpose as a superb training and recreational dinghy.