Topper Spice Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Topper Spice are defined by its twin-trapeze setup and a powerful, asymmetric spinnaker. Unlike the more sedate designs in the Topper stable, the Spice is a pure performance machine that requires active weight management and precise coordination between helm and crew. The boat utilizes adjustable "wings" or racks, which allow sailors to extend their leverage, making the boat surprisingly manageable for lighter crews who might otherwise struggle in high-performance classes.

The hull is characterized by a fine entry and a flat run aft, a combination that encourages the boat to "pop" onto a plane with minimal effort. Under its large asymmetric kite, the Spice demonstrates the typical "apparent wind" sailing style of a skiff; as the boat accelerates, the wind shifts forward, requiring the crew to trim constantly to maintain maximum velocity. Handling is reported to be responsive, though the high power-to-weight ratio means the boat can be unforgiving in gusty conditions or during botched maneuvers. The inclusion of the sibling Flash rig—which featured a shorter mast and less sail area—was a strategic move by Topper to make the hull accessible to youth sailors or those transitioning from more traditional boats like the 420.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Topper Spice gained considerable attention during the "skiff revolution" of the late 1990s. It was frequently featured in European sailing journals as a viable, one-design alternative to the burgeoning International 14 and 49er classes. While it never reached the Olympic status of the 49er, it carved out a niche in the UK handicap racing circuits and was a regular fixture in the "Great Lakes" handicap series and various "Sailboat Show" showcases throughout the late 90s and early 2000s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When evaluating a used Topper Spice, the primary concern is the integrity of the GRP hull and its specialized hardware. Because these boats were often sailed at the limit, structural fatigue can manifest in specific areas:

• Rack Sockets and Attachment Points: The adjustable wings exert significant leverage on the hull. Inspect the sockets and the surrounding laminate for stress cracks or "star-crazing," which can indicate that the hull has softened or been subjected to excessive torque.
• Mast Step and Compression: The rig tension required to keep the Spice's mast stable is substantial. Check the mast step and the deck around the partners for signs of compression or indentation.
• Foils and Gudgeons: The rudder stock and transom gudgeons take a beating in high-speed skiffs. Ensure there is no significant play in the rudder assembly, as this can lead to "speed wobble" or loss of control at high planing speeds.
• Gelcoat Condition: Given the age of the Spice fleet, many hulls may have undergone repairs. Look for mismatched gelcoat or evidence of past "shunts," particularly around the bow and the waterline.

Community & Resources

While the Spice is no longer in active production, it retains a dedicated following among performance enthusiasts. Technical support and rigging advice are often found through the broader Topper community, though the boat lacks the massive formal association of the smaller Topper dinghy. Owners often congregate in handicap racing fleets and utilize general skiff forums for maintenance advice. The original design specifications and architectural intent remain archived by Humphreys Yacht Design, which serves as the primary historical record for the model’s technical evolution.

The Verdict

The Topper Spice is an exhilarating, high-speed dinghy that offers a "skiff-lite" experience without the extreme costs or fragility of larger international classes. It remains an excellent choice for experienced duos looking for affordable, high-performance racing.

Pros:

• Accessible High Performance: The adjustable racks make it adaptable to various crew weights.
• Speed: Exceptional off-the-wind performance with the asymmetric spinnaker.
• Design Pedigree: A well-balanced hull from the board of Rob Humphreys.

Cons:

• Complexity: The twin-trapeze and asymmetric setup require a high level of skill to master.
• Aging Fleet: As a legacy GRP model, finding a boat in "race-ready" condition requires diligent searching.
• Class Density: Lacks the massive one-design fleets found in more modern classes like the RS800.