Transit 380 Information, Review, Specs

The Transit 380 first entered production in 2005, emerging from Precision Boat Works, a family-owned builder known for its commitment to "quality built in" and specializing in professional sailboat designs that offer enjoyable sailing experiences for families. The company, founded by brothers Bill and Richard Porter in 1978, consistently focused on producing durable, well-mannered, and immensely practical vessels. The Transit 380's design is a testament to this ethos, specifically addressing a niche in youth sailing education. Jim Taylor, a world-class yacht designer, contributed his expertise to all of Precision's boats, sharing the company's enthusiasm for developing performance-oriented yet easily manageable small boats. His design of the Transit 380 was specifically aimed at a local yacht club's junior sailing program, underscoring its role as a dedicated trainer. With a length overall of 12.5 feet and a waterline length of 11.9 feet, the Transit 380 features a monohull fiberglass construction and a versatile centerboard keel, allowing for a minimum draft of 0.4 feet and a maximum draft of 3.3 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Designed as a youth trainer, the Transit 380's sailing characteristics prioritize ease of handling, stability, and responsiveness suitable for developing skills. With a reported sail area of 92 square feet and a fractional sloop rig, she offers a balanced sail plan that can be managed by aspiring sailors. The boat's hull speed is calculated at 4.62 knots, indicative of a dinghy built for learning and local club racing rather than outright speed. Its centerboard design contributes to its versatility, allowing for easy shallow-water access and trailering, while also providing lateral resistance for efficient upwind performance. Reviews suggest it is a responsive boat, offering an engaging yet forgiving platform for young sailors to refine their techniques and gain confidence before transitioning to more demanding dinghies.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 12.5-foot training dinghy, the Transit 380 features an open cockpit layout, typical for boats of its size and purpose. There are no enclosed accommodations, such as a cabin, head, or galley, which is standard for a vessel primarily designed for day sailing and youth instruction. The interior space is dedicated entirely to the cockpit, providing ample room for a student and instructor, or for a single sailor to maneuver and learn. The design focuses on simplicity and functionality, with a robust fiberglass construction built to withstand the rigors of frequent use in a training environment.