Tiwal 2 Information, Review, Specs

The journey of the Tiwal 2 began with its production start in 2018, building upon Tiwal's established philosophy of creating high-performance inflatable sailboats. Designer Marion Excoffon envisioned the Tiwal 2 specifically to meet the demand for a boat that was not only engaging to sail but also incredibly easy to transport and set up, embodying the ideal "pocket boat" concept. Tiwal, as a builder, emphasizes user-friendly design and rapid assembly, a core ethos that is evident in the Tiwal 2, which can typically be assembled and ready to sail in just 15 to 20 minutes without specialized tools.

Constructed with a robust fiberglass PVC foam core for both its hull and deck, the Tiwal 2 achieves a balance of durability and lightweight design. During its production, Tiwal has offered sail variations to enhance its versatility. The standard Tiwal 2 typically features a 60 sq ft furling sail made from durable Dacron by North Sails, a leading sailmaker. Additionally, a reefable sail option allows sailors to adjust the sail area between 6 and 4.80 square meters (approximately 64.6 to 51.7 sq ft), providing flexibility for different wind conditions and crew weights.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size and inflatable nature, the Tiwal 2 is engineered to deliver a lively and engaging sailing experience. It is often described as reactive and playful, characteristics that appeal to both novice and experienced sailors. With a reported sail area of 60 square feet and a remarkably low displacement of just 90 pounds, the Tiwal 2 is known for its quick acceleration, even in lighter breezes. The boat's daggerboard keel contributes to its upwind performance and allows for easy adjustment of draft.

Owners and reviewers frequently note that the Tiwal 2 handles well, offering a balanced feel and responsive control that translates into a useful and enjoyable sailing experience. Its ability to perform effectively has been demonstrated in a variety of environments, from the calm waters of Adirondack lakes and Salt Lake City reservoirs to the more demanding conditions of coastal New England and the British Virgin Islands. The option of a reefable sail further enhances its handling by allowing sailors to optimize the sail area for prevailing wind conditions or the number of crew, making it adaptable for solo adventures or carrying two children.

Accommodations and Layout

As a highly portable, inflatable sailing dinghy, the Tiwal 2 does not feature traditional interior accommodations. Instead, its design focuses on maximizing functional deck space and ease of use. The hull, constructed from a fiberglass PVC foam core, provides a stable and comfortable platform for sailing. With a maximum load capacity of 330 pounds, the Tiwal 2 is designed to comfortably accommodate one adult or two children, offering a fun and accessible way to get on the water.

A defining feature of the Tiwal 2 is its exceptional portability. The entire boat, including its mast and sail, disassembles and packs compactly into two dedicated carrying bags. The hull bag weighs approximately 55 pounds and measures 4.75' x 1.33' x 1.17', while the second bag, weighing around 45 pounds, measures 3.58' x 1.33' x 0.83'. This design allows for incredibly easy transportation and storage, whether by car, on a larger boat, or even for air travel. The rapid assembly time of 15 to 20 minutes means sailors can transition quickly from transport to enjoyment on the water.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tiwal 2 consistently highlight its convenience and the sheer fun it provides on the water. Many appreciate its extreme portability and the ease with which it can be assembled and launched, making spontaneous sailing adventures a reality. The Tiwal 2 is frequently praised for its role as a versatile tender, easily deployed from larger yachts or catamarans to enhance the experience at anchor with an active watersport. Sailors commend its "reactive and playful" characteristics, noting that for a small, lightweight inflatable, it delivers impressive speed and an enjoyable sailing sensation. The ability to sail in diverse locations, from inland reservoirs to coastal waters, is also a frequently mentioned positive. While specific common problems are not widely reported in public reviews, the general consensus emphasizes the boat's solid design for its intended purpose and its capacity to deliver genuine sailing pleasure in a highly accessible format.