Tiwal 3 R Information, Review, Specs

Built by the French innovator Tiwal, the 3 R is specifically crafted for those seeking responsiveness, lightness, and genuine gliding sensations on the water, whether as a dedicated racer or a spirited recreational sailor.

The Tiwal 3 R, introduced in 2022, is the culmination of Tiwal's commitment to pushing the boundaries of inflatable sailboat technology. From its genesis in 2012, Tiwal, under the vision of industrial designer Marion Excoffon, set out to create boats that were not only fun to sail but also incredibly easy to transport and set up. The 3 R embodies this philosophy, designed to fit into just two carrying bags plus a sail bag, making transportation remarkably simple. Its quick assembly time, typically around 20 to 25 minutes without the need for specialized tools, is a hallmark of Tiwal's user-friendly design.

The design philosophy behind the Tiwal 3 R is centered on performance and precision, developed by sailors for sailors to offer optimal sailing dynamics. While leveraging inflatable hull technology for convenience, the boat incorporates the latest design technologies to achieve a rigid structure for high performance. Tiwal collaborates with North Sails, a leading sailmaker, for its sail configurations, including the 77 sq ft Lightwind sail and a 67 sq ft Freeride sail, ensuring durability and performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Weighing in at a mere 121 pounds with a length overall of 10.5 feet and a reported sail area of 77.0 square feet, the Tiwal 3 R delivers a lively and responsive sailing experience. It is noted for its exceptional gliding sensations, quick acceleration even in light breezes, and impressive speed, reportedly capable of reaching up to 14 knots. The boat's lightness and responsiveness are key to its engaging performance, providing a dynamic feel for the sailor.

Equipped with a daggerboard keel and a single rudder, the Tiwal 3 R is designed for precise handling. While primarily intended for single-handed sailing, it can comfortably accommodate two people. Owners often describe its sailing ability, particularly its downwind performance, as surprising for an inflatable boat, offering a "forgiving sailing experience" that makes it accessible even for those with less advanced sailing skills. Its stability, despite its high-performance design, further contributes to a confident and enjoyable ride.

Accommodations and Layout

As a high-performance inflatable racing dinghy, the Tiwal 3 R does not feature traditional interior accommodations. Its design prioritizes open-air sailing, portability, and performance. The layout is focused on the open cockpit, featuring hiking rails (as implied by the beam measurement "excluding hiking rails") to enhance the sailor's ability to maintain balance and control, especially during spirited sailing. The open design facilitates quick entry and exit and minimizes weight.

The entire boat, including its mast and sail, can be stowed compactly into two primary carrying bags, each weighing approximately 62 pounds and measuring 4.75' x 1.33' x 1.17', along with a separate sail bag weighing 12 pounds. This remarkable portability is a fundamental aspect of its design, allowing it to be easily transported in a car trunk and assembled swiftly for immediate use. The maximum load capacity is 440 pounds, suitable for single or double-handed sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tiwal 3 R consistently praise its remarkable performance and the genuine sailing sensations it provides. Many express surprise at its speed and overall sailing ability, often noting its excellent downwind performance and robust construction. The boat's responsiveness and lightness are frequently highlighted as significant strengths, contributing to an "exceptional gliding" experience.

The ease of use and quick assembly are also highly valued by the Tiwal community, enabling more spontaneous sailing adventures. For those transitioning from other watersports like windsurfing, the Tiwal 3 R offers a familiar yet exhilarating feel. The general consensus among owners points to a durable and "bulletproof" boat that defies expectations for an inflatable vessel, offering a compelling blend of portability and genuine sailing excitement.