Boss Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Topper Boss entered production in 1994, building upon Topper International's established legacy of crafting durable, accessible, and fun sailing dinghies. Designed by Ian Howlett, the Boss represented a move towards higher performance within the Topper lineup. Topper International, known for its innovative construction methods, including injection-moulded polypropylene and later TRILAM sandwich structures for durability, applied its manufacturing ethos to the Boss, ensuring a robust yet lightweight boat. The design philosophy behind Topper boats emphasizes outstanding build quality and performance, aiming to make sailing enjoyable for a wide range of abilities, from novices to seasoned racers. The Boss, with its advanced rig and twin trapeze, clearly targeted the latter, offering a platform for competitive racing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Topper Boss is characterized by its exceptionally light displacement of 187 pounds, combined with a substantial reported sail area of 223 square feet. This power-to-weight ratio, along with its fractional sloop rig and large masthead asymmetric spinnaker on a sprit, indicates a boat designed for thrilling performance, particularly in reaching conditions [Notes from. The inclusion of a twin trapeze system further underscores its intent as a high-speed, two-person racing machine, allowing crew members to efficiently counter the boat's powerful rig and keep it upright for maximum speed. Sailors often describe performance dinghies like the Boss as "great boats to race" and "fun to sail in a bit of breeze," offering plenty of competition on the water. Its centerboard hull type provides flexibility for launching and landing in shallow waters while offering good upwind performance when deployed. The overall design emphasizes total performance, efficiency, and elegance, catering to those who appreciate precise boat handling and a lively sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 16-foot high-performance racing dinghy, the Topper Boss does not feature any enclosed accommodations or interior living spaces. Its layout is entirely dedicated to optimizing crew ergonomics and efficiency for competitive sailing. The open cockpit is designed to facilitate quick movement, communication, and trapezing for both helm and crew. All control lines and fittings are strategically placed to allow for rapid adjustments and efficient boat handling during races. The deck and hull are constructed from fiberglass solid, providing a strong and durable platform for the demands of high-speed racing. Storage is minimal, typically limited to small compartments for essential safety gear and personal effects, reflecting its single-purpose design as a pure racing vessel.