Vixen Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Vixen's story began in 1963, a testament to Ray Greene & Co.'s continued innovation in fiberglass production. Ray Greene, widely credited with building the first fiberglass boat hull in 1942, established his company's reputation for adopting this revolutionary material for its durability and lower maintenance requirements. The Vixen's creation aligns with Greene's overall design philosophy, which prioritized robust and functional vessels for broad enjoyment rather than high-performance racing machines.

As its designer, Ray Greene imbued the Vixen with a design focused on adaptability. The boat was offered with a fractional sloop rig, as well as an optional cat rig, providing flexibility for different sailing preferences. Its design also thoughtfully included the capacity to accept an outboard motor of up to 5 horsepower, enhancing its utility as an all-purpose dinghy or tender. While precise production numbers are not definitively known, it is believed that around 380 Vixens were built, cementing its presence in the small boat community of the era. Production likely ceased around 1975, when Ray Greene retired and the company concluded its active operations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Weighing in at a light 225 pounds with a length overall of 10 feet and a beam of 4.5 feet, the Vixen is a sprightly and easily managed dinghy. Its modest sail area of 80 square feet, combined with a lightweight displacement, suggests a boat that is quick to respond in lighter air conditions, making it an enjoyable craft for casual day sailing on lakes and sheltered waters. The Vixen features a centerboard keel, allowing for a minimum draft of just 0.2 feet when retracted and a maximum draft of 2.25 feet when deployed Builder Data. This centerboard configuration offers excellent versatility, providing stability and improved upwind performance when lowered, and enabling easy beaching or shallow-water access when raised. Anecdotal descriptions suggest the Vixen handles predictably, making it a suitable choice for new sailors or those seeking a straightforward, fun sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 10-foot all-purpose dinghy, the Ray Greene Vixen features a functional, open cockpit layout rather than enclosed accommodations. The design prioritizes sailing efficiency and ease of use, providing ample space for one or two occupants within its open hull. The simple interior typically consists of thwarts for seating, with no provision for standing headroom or complex internal structures. This minimalist arrangement underscores its purpose as a day sailer or tender, where the focus is on on-water activity rather than extended stays aboard. The fiberglass construction means a low-maintenance, easy-to-clean interior, consistent with Ray Greene & Co.'s ethos of practical boatbuilding.