125 Information, Review, Specs

The 125 dinghy was designed in 1969 by Simon Greig, with the specific intent of bridging the gap between smaller training boats like the Mirror 10 and larger dinghies such as the Mirror 16. Greig's vision was to create a kit-set dinghy that offered the excitement of a trapeze and spinnaker, while remaining accessible for home construction using the "stitch and glue" plywood method, often incorporating parts common to the Mirror class. Production officially began in 1971.

Initially, sales were slow, but the persistence of John Coomer, an early builder of a 125, proved instrumental. Coomer encouraged Greig to continue production, then developed a new sail plan inspired by the Flying Junior, along with crucial class rules and a constitution. In 1972, Greig transferred the copyright to Coomer for the newly forming association, allowing the class to flourish. By 1977, over 950 sets of plans had been sold, demonstrating a growing interest in the self-build aspect. The class has since seen more than 3,100 units built, reflecting its enduring appeal. While originally plywood-built, the class rules evolved to permit fiberglass hull construction from 1990 onwards, with licensed builders like Botterill Boat Builders contributing to the fleet, offering a lower-maintenance option. The class rules maintain a strict one-design concept to ensure uniform performance, although minor modifications over the years, such as the addition of hand holds in the transom and floor battens, have been incorporated with the consent of the National Executive.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The 125 dinghy, with its lightweight displacement of just 110 pounds (50 kg) and a reported sail area of 102 square feet, including a 93 square foot spinnaker, is engineered for a lively and responsive sailing experience. Its fractional sloop rig, combined with the ability to use a trapeze, indicates a design focused on performance, particularly in moderate to strong winds. Owners often describe the 125 as "lively," especially when on a spinnaker reach in winds exceeding 12-15 knots, where its hard-chine hull form allows for exciting planing performance.

Despite its performance capabilities, the 125 is generally considered a "relatively stable and forgiving hull," making it suitable for intermediate sailors transitioning from smaller training dinghies. While designed for two crew, with an optimal racing weight between 100 kg and 140 kg, it can be sailed solo, though this demands significant dexterity to manage the main, jib, and tiller simultaneously, especially for beginners. The centerboard design, allowing for a minimum draft of 0.25 feet (0.08 m) and a maximum draft of 1.9 feet (0.58 m), provides excellent versatility for launching in shallow water and beaching. Overall, the 125 offers a dynamic sailing experience that rewards active crew participation while remaining accessible for skill development.

Deck Layout and Features

As a dedicated racing and training dinghy, the 125 prioritizes functional deck layout over interior accommodations. The open cockpit is designed to efficiently facilitate the movements of a two-person crew, allowing for active sailing and rapid maneuvers. Control lines and halyards are typically led to the cockpit area for ease of access and adjustment during racing.

Storage for the spinnaker is often managed via a chute on the foredeck or a bag located in the forward part of the cockpit, optimizing quick deployment and retrieval, particularly during high-speed runs. The construction, whether traditional plywood or more modern fiberglass, focuses on robustness and lightweight characteristics. Owners building their own boats have some flexibility in specific deck hardware and internal battens, contributing to the class's appeal as a hands-on project.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the 125 dinghy for its affordability, particularly for those willing to purchase and perhaps restore an older wooden hull, making it an excellent entry point into performance dinghy sailing on a budget. Its lightweight nature, at approximately 50 kg for the hull, allows for easy transport, including car-topping, adding to its convenience for family sailing and local club events. Many owners highlight the boat's "economical, exciting, family sailing" ethos, noting its suitability for a wide range of ages and skill levels. The robust national class association is a significant draw, offering a strong community, organized racing, and a framework that has allowed the class to evolve with new materials while maintaining its one-design principles.

However, the 125 does present some considerations. While generally forgiving, some beginners, especially those attempting to sail single-handed, may find it "a bit tender" due to its large sail area relative to its size, requiring more active management. Older wooden boats, while affordable, can require significant restoration, with common issues like transom rot being noted by owners. Despite these points, the consensus among owners is that the 125 delivers a rewarding and engaging sailing experience, fostering skill development and competitive racing within a supportive community.