Starling Dinghy (NZ) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Starling dinghy in the late 1960s addressed a critical need within New Zealand's sailing community: a suitable intermediate single-handed boat for teenagers. Many young sailors were leaving the sport due to the significant jump from the P-class to larger adult monotypes like the Finn or OK Dinghy. Commissioned by John Peet, the design brief stipulated a vessel that was easily handled in fresh conditions, capable of planing readily, and possessing strong windward performance. A high priority was also placed on the boat's appearance and simple construction, allowing for amateur building.

Des Townson, a prominent designer known for successful yachts such as the Zephyr and Mistral, completed the Starling design in June 1969. The prototype, notably built by John Peet's teenage son David to confirm construction simplicity, was launched in Auckland in 1970. Following extensive testing and sailor feedback, slight modifications were made to the hull and a fully battened sail was replaced with the current sail profile, leading to what is effectively the Starling MkII design. The design was then gifted to the Glendowie Boating Club, which became the controlling body for the class. While initially constructed from plywood over wooden frames, a fiberglass option became available around 2000, with class rules meticulously designed to ensure equal performance between both construction types. MacKay Boats Ltd., known for their "Just Fast" philosophy and precision in building high-performance dinghies, have contributed significantly to the Starling fleet, adhering to the strict one-design rules that ensure competitive equality across all boats. Over 1,400 Starlings have been built, making it a enduring and significant class in New Zealand sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Starling Dinghy is lauded for its responsive and engaging sailing characteristics, specifically tailored for teenage sailors weighing approximately 40-70 kilograms (88-154 lbs). Its design priorities – including easy handling in fresh conditions, the ability to plane readily, and strong windward performance – translate into a boat that is both forgiving for learners and rewarding for competitive sailors. Owners and class experts describe the Starling as "light on the helm" and an "ideal stepping-stone" for developing advanced sailing skills, including rig tuning and kinetics. The boat’s hard-chine lines and simple control system contribute to its direct feel and allow sailors to truly "experience the magic of sailing a finely tuned boat". Its ability to accelerate and plane in suitable conditions makes for exciting downwind runs, while its inherent balance ensures good behavior in varying sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

As a dedicated racing and training dinghy, the NZ Starling Dinghy features an open cockpit layout designed for functionality rather than interior accommodations. There is no enclosed cabin or headroom to speak of, as the boat's purpose is focused entirely on on-water performance and skill development. The cockpit is designed to accommodate two teenagers or one adult, providing ample space for active sailing and maneuverability. The controls are laid out simply, facilitating ease of use for developing sailors. Key elements within the cockpit include the centerboard trunk, which houses the retractable centerboard, and the mast block forward, designed to support deck blocks for sail controls such as outhaul, downhaul, and kicker. The design also incorporates features like buoyancy of "P-class standard" to ensure safety, and carefully placed floor battens for crew positioning and hull rigidity.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and coaches consistently praise the Starling Dinghy as an excellent all-around boat for youth transitioning from Optimist or P-class dinghies. Its robust construction, whether in traditional wood or modern fiberglass, is generally well-regarded, with class rules ensuring that both types compete on equal terms. Sailors often commend its balanced feel, speed, and responsiveness, noting that the boat rewards proper sailing technique. The class's strong association and active national championship scene also foster a vibrant and supportive community, which is a significant draw for many families.

A commonly noted characteristic relates to the standard aluminum masts. While the class aims for one-design consistency, there can be variations in mast stiffness. Owners occasionally report that the masts can be prone to bending if over-vanged in strong conditions. This highlights the importance of understanding sail and rig tuning, which the Starling effectively teaches. The class association maintains strict rules regarding minimum weight and provides guidance on corrector weights to ensure fair competition across the fleet. Overall, the Starling is seen as a durable, competitive, and educational platform that has successfully trained generations of New Zealand's top sailors, including Olympic medalists.