O'pen Bic Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The O'pen Skiff is defined by its planing hull and responsive handling. With a hull weight of approximately 45 kilograms (99 lbs), it is light enough to reach planing speeds quickly, especially on a reach or downwind. According to technical assessments from World Sailing, the boat’s sharp, hard-chine design allows it to track well upwind while maintaining the "general vivacity" required to teach young sailors how to handle heel and balance. The rig is unstayed, featuring a two-part fiberglass-epoxy mast and an aluminum boom, which provides a flexible, forgiving response to gusts.

In the water, the boat feels more like a windsurfer than a traditional dinghy. The lack of a closed transom means the sailor is never burdened by a swamped boat; even after a complete inversion, the vessel is righted and dry within seconds. While the boat is rated for sailors up to 90 kg (198 lbs), its performance "sweet spot" is generally cited between 30 kg and 65 kg. Heavier sailors may find the transom dragging and the bow prone to digging in during puffs, as noted in various owner anecdotes.

Popular Mentions & Media

The O'pen Skiff has earned a significant cultural footprint within the sailing world, most notably through its association with the "Un-Regatta" format. This style of racing, popularized by the International O'pen Skiff Class Association, replaces traditional windward-leeward courses with short, fast-paced laps that often include freestyle maneuvers, standing-up legs, and slalom obstacles.

The boat gained global visibility during the 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda, where it was selected for the "Half Time Show," showcasing 32 junior sailors performing in front of a worldwide audience. It has also received high praise from legendary America's Cup winner Sir Russell Coutts, who has advocated for the boat as a vital tool for keeping kids engaged in the sport by focusing on speed and "the joy of sailing" over rigid traditionalism.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the O'pen Skiff is marketed as "indestructible," buyers should pay close attention to several technical areas typical of thermoformed polyethylene boats:

• Polyethylene Hull Integrity: Check the hull for deep "oil-canning" (indentations) or significant gouges. While polyethylene is tough, it is notoriously difficult to repair once the structural integrity is compromised by a deep tear or heat-related warping.
• Mast Step Stress: Inspect the mast step for spider-web cracking or deformation. The unstayed rig puts significant leverage on the base, and while the TST construction is robust, years of high-wind sailing can take a toll.
• Monofilm Sail Condition: The standard 4.5m² monofilm sail provides excellent visibility and shape but is highly susceptible to UV damage and "creasing." If the sail appears milky or has sharp, white creases, it is near the end of its life and will likely crack.
• Foil Condition: The rudder and daggerboard are composite epoxy. Check the trailing edges for chips and the leading edges for impact damage, as these components provide the boat's "feel" and lift.

Community & Resources

The O'pen Skiff remains an active World Sailing International Class. Technical support, class rules, and event calendars are primarily managed through the International O'pen Skiff Class Association, which oversees over 15 national associations worldwide. For historical technical data and parts, Tahe Outdoors serves as the primary manufacturer and distributor.

The Verdict

The O'pen Skiff is a modern, high-energy alternative to traditional junior trainers, focusing on speed and fun over technical minutiae.

Pros:

• Durable Construction: Polyethylene hull handles beaching and collisions with minimal damage.
• Zero Bailing: The open transom and self-draining cockpit mean no buckets and immediate recovery after capsizing.
• Portability: At 9 feet and 99 lbs, it is easily car-topped and rigged in under 10 minutes.
• Modern Skills: Teaches skiff-style balance and rig control essential for moving into 29ers or 49ers.

Cons:

• Weight Sensitivity: Performance drops significantly if the sailor exceeds the 65kg ideal weight range.
• Wet Ride: The open design ensures the sailor will be wet even in moderate conditions.
• Sail Longevity: Monofilm sails are more fragile than traditional Dacron sails.