Gipsy Speed Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Gipsy Speed is defined by its light displacement and relatively flat aft sections, which allow the hull to break onto a plane in moderate breezes (typically Force 4 and above). With a sail area often cited around 9.5 square meters, the boat possesses a high sail-area-to-displacement ratio common to performance dinghies, ensuring responsiveness in light air. Unlike its larger sibling, the Gipsy Star, which tracks with more authority, the Speed is highly sensitive to crew weight and trim.

Handling is characterized by agility; the boat utilizes a pivoting centerboard and a kick-up rudder, making it ideal for beach launches and shallow-water exploration. According to historical technical notes from Italian nautical archives (such as Vela e Motore), the boat was praised for its balance, though it requires an active crew to manage the heel in gusts. It does not typically feature a trapeze as standard equipment, though many owners have retrofitted them to enhance performance. The cockpit layout is open and ergonomic for two adults, though it is frequently sailed solo by experienced pilots who can manage the main and jib sheets simultaneously.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

As these vessels are now several decades old, prospective buyers should focus on the integrity of the fiberglass and the specialized hardware.

• Mast Step Compression: The mast step on the Gipsy Speed is a known stress point. Inspect the area around the base of the mast for spiderweb cracking or "oil-canning" (flexing), which indicates the internal reinforcement may be compromised.
• Centerboard Trunk Integrity: Like many GRP dinghies of this era, the trunk where the centerboard hinges can develop leaks or structural cracks. Ensure the trunk is watertight and that the pivot bolt is not causing excessive wear on the fiberglass.
• Deck Softness: The foredeck and side tanks were constructed using a sandwich core in some iterations. Delamination can occur, leading to "soft spots." Testing the deck with firm thumb pressure can reveal areas where the fiberglass has separated from the core.
• Hardware Availability: Many of the original fittings were proprietary or sourced from defunct Italian manufacturers. While most blocks and cleats can be replaced with modern Ronstan or Harken equivalents, the specific rudder gudgeons and mast sections can be difficult to source and may require custom fabrication.

Community & Resources

While there is no longer an active manufacturer support network for Gipsy Marine vessels, the boats remain popular in European "classic dinghy" circles. Owners often congregate in general small-boat restoration groups or regional sailing clubs in Italy and Southern France. Technical specifications and historical context are occasionally maintained by vintage boat registries and local maritime heritage associations in the Mediterranean.

The Verdict

The Gipsy Speed is a nostalgic and capable day-sailer that offers a pure, tactile sailing experience without the complexity of modern high-performance skiffs. It is an excellent entry point for those looking to master the fundamentals of sail trim and hull balance.

Pros:

• Lightweight and extremely easy to trailer or roof-rack.
• Capable of planing in moderate winds, providing an exciting ride for its size.
• Simple rigging allows for a quick transition from the trailer to the water.

Cons:

• Original hardware can be difficult to find and expensive to replace.
• The aging GRP hulls require careful inspection for structural fatigue.
• Lack of a dedicated class association makes one-design racing nearly impossible.