Taz Plus (Topaz) Information, Review, Specs

Topper International, celebrated for its innovative use of materials and commitment to accessible sailing, introduced the Taz Plus as part of its versatile Topaz range.

History and Design

The Topaz Taz Plus began its production in 2011, emerging from Topper International's well-established legacy of creating durable and performance-oriented dinghies. The design, attributed to Ian Howlett and Rob White, aimed to deliver a modern, stylish, and easily managed sailboat for novices and younger sailors. Topper International's manufacturing ethos, characterized by its pioneering TRILAM sandwich construction, ensures that the Taz Plus hull is both supremely durable and lightweight. 1, 2, Builder Article This construction method, using injection-moulded polypropylene, contributes to the boat's ability to withstand the rigors of learning and recreational use, a hallmark of the Topper brand. The Taz Plus is noted for utilizing the same reliable foils as the original Topper dinghy, a testament to its proven design elements. It was recognized by Sail Magazine as the "Best Dinghy" in 2011, highlighting its breakthrough for beginner sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Topaz Taz Plus, with a length overall of 9.68 feet (2.95 meters) and a lightweight hull of just 88 pounds (40 kg), is engineered for simple and forgiving sailing. It features a cat rig, though the "Plus" model typically includes both a mainsail and a jib, offering a total reported sail area of 58.02 square feet (5.39 m²). This sail plan, often described as a Bermuda rig, prepares beginners for larger boats while remaining manageable.

The boat's lightweight nature makes it easy to handle both on and off the water, even for smaller children. Novice sailors are reported to feel instantly at ease in the Taz Plus, which is praised for being an easy-to-sail, two-sail dinghy. Its design prioritizes stability and straightforward control, making it an excellent platform for learning the fundamentals of sailing. The Taz Plus has the capacity to carry up to 200 kg, allowing two children or an adult and child to sail together comfortably.

Accommodations and Layout

As a small recreational dinghy, the Topaz Taz Plus does not feature enclosed accommodations in the traditional sense. Instead, its design focuses on a spacious and functional cockpit layout. The hull offers a deceptively roomy cockpit capacity, comparable to some more expensive rivals. This self-draining cockpit is designed for comfort and ease of use, providing ample space for one or two crew members. Features such as righting lines and grab-rails are incorporated to enhance safety and facilitate recovery in the event of a capsize, underscoring its role as a beginner-friendly vessel. The simple, open layout ensures that it is easy to rig and manage, consistent with Topper's philosophy of accessible sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and users of the Topaz Taz Plus consistently highlight its suitability as a teaching boat and a fun family dinghy. It is widely regarded as an ideal choice for young solo beginners, with some noting that a child as light as 30 kg can handle a Taz. Its robust TRILAM construction is a frequently praised attribute, contributing to its supreme durability and ability to withstand the bumps and scrapes common with learning sailors. The boat's ease of handling and stability are also recurring positives, making it a stress-free introduction to sailing. The Taz Plus is often described as a versatile, multi-purpose sailboat suitable for all abilities, living up to Topper's reputation for making sailing enjoyable.