Idle Along Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Idle Along is characterized by a high sail-area-to-displacement ratio for its size, carrying approximately 150 to 160 square feet of sail—a substantial rig for a 12-foot, 8-inch hull. This power-to-weight configuration reflects its origins as a three-person racing dinghy, where the combined weight of the crew was essential to counter the significant heeling force of the Bermudan rig. Sailors often describe the IA as a stable and "seakindly" vessel relative to modern skiffs, primarily due to its generous beam and relatively flat hull sections toward the stern.

Tracking is generally reliable, though the boat requires active weight management to perform in heavy air. Anecdotal records from the National Library of New Zealand suggest that the boat's design allowed it to excel in the choppy, wind-swept waters of Wellington Harbour. While the IA may lack the explosive acceleration of a modern carbon-fiber racing machine, its ability to plane under spinnaker in moderate-to-high winds made it a feared competitor in the mid-20th-century regatta circuits.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Idle Along’s cultural footprint is most visible through the Moffat Cup, a prestigious trophy first contested in 1936 that became the pinnacle of IA racing. The class was a staple of New Zealand junior and intermediate sailing programs for over forty years, and its history is meticulously documented in maritime literature such as Ronald Carter's Little Ships (1944) and Grahame Anderson's Fast Light Boats: A Century of Kiwi Innovation. Local clubs like the Worser Bay Boating Club continue to celebrate the vessel’s centenary and its role in fostering a generation of Southern Hemisphere sailors who would eventually go on to compete in the America's Cup.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of heritage Idle Alongs should prioritize a structural assessment of the hull and centerboard assembly, particularly in older wooden examples.

• Chine and Transom Rot: In plywood and clinker versions, moisture often traps at the chine joints and the lower corners of the transom. These areas should be checked for "soft spots" or delamination of the marine ply.
• Centerboard Case: The trunk for the centerboard is a high-stress area and a common point for leaks. Inspect the bed logs and the surrounding floor timbers for signs of structural fatigue or wood rot.
• Rigging Hard Points: Given the large sail area, the chainplates and mast step undergo significant tension. Ensure the timber reinforcements behind these fittings haven't degraded over time.
• Fiberglass Osmosis: For the rare fiberglass variants produced in later years, check for osmotic blistering in the gelcoat, especially if the boat has been stored in a humid environment or on a damp trailer.

Community & Resources

The class is supported by a dedicated community of enthusiasts who focus on the preservation and restoration of classic hulls.

• Idle Along Association of New Zealand: The primary technical resource for class rules, historical registries, and original Alf Harvey or John Spencer plans.
• Wellington Classic Yacht Trust: Often provides historical context and support for the restoration of early 20th-century designs, including the IA.

The Verdict

The Idle Along is a storied classic that offers a unique blend of historical significance and robust sailing characteristics. It is less of a "casual Sunday sailer" and more of a technical heritage piece that rewards those who appreciate the nuances of traditional dinghy handling.

Pros

• Exceptional stability for its length due to a 6-foot beam.
• High historical value and a strong community for restoration advice.
• Spacious cockpit compared to modern racing dinghies of similar length.

Cons

• Heavy for a 12-footer, often requiring a dedicated trailer and multiple crew members for launching.
• Maintenance-intensive if opting for the more common wooden construction.
• Large sail area can be unforgiving for novice sailors in high winds.