Sailing Performance & Handling
The VX Two is defined by its "hike-only" philosophy, which sets it apart from more traditional high-performance skiffs like the 29er or 49er. By removing the trapeze, Bennett and the team at Ovington Boats—who co-produced the model for the European market—created a platform that relies on body weight and leverage through hiking. The boat features an ergonomic cockpit design with wide, flared topsides that provide significant righting moment when the crew is fully extended.
On the water, the VX Two is exceptionally responsive, owing to its lightweight epoxy construction and narrow waterline. In light air, it behaves like a sensitive racing dinghy, requiring precise weight placement to maintain trim. However, as the breeze exceeds 8 to 10 knots, the boat transitions rapidly to a plane. The North Sails-designed power plant, featuring a square-top mainsail and a high-aspect jib, provides a high power-to-weight ratio that allows the boat to track steadily upwind. Downwind, the large asymmetric spinnaker is launched via a bow snout and retrieval system, transforming the vessel into a true speed machine capable of deep-angle sailing or high-speed reaches that can easily exceed 15 knots.
Popular Mentions & Media
The VX Two gained significant attention during its launch phase as the "missing link" in the VX Racing line. It was widely featured in technical reviews by sailing journals looking for a modern alternative to the aging International 14 or the more frantic trapeze skiffs. The boat’s pedigree is bolstered by its association with MacKay Boats, a builder whose hulls have dominated the Olympic 470 and 49er circuits. While it has not reached the massive fleet numbers of its predecessor, the VX One, the VX Two is frequently highlighted in "Best of" dinghy design discussions for its "easy-to-access speed" and high build quality.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective owners of a used VX Two should approach the inspection with a focus on the high-load areas typical of epoxy-built performance craft.
- Mast Step and Gate: Because the VX Two carries a powerful rig without the cushioning effect of a heavy keel, the mast step and the partners (where the mast passes through the deck) sustain significant stress. Check for spiderweb cracking in the gelcoat or any signs of compression in the deck laminate.
- Spinnaker Retrieval System: The internal chute system is efficient but can suffer from friction or wear. Inspect the retrieval line and the mouth of the bow snout for sharp edges or fiberglass splinters that could tear the expensive lightweight kite.
- Foil Integrity: The high-aspect rudder and daggerboard are precision tools. Check for "trailing edge hum" damage or chips at the tips, which can significantly affect the boat’s lift and drag profile at high speeds.
- Hiking Strap Attachment Points: Given the "hike-only" nature of the boat, the attachment points for the hiking straps are under constant tension. Ensure the backing plates are secure and there is no softening of the cockpit floor around these mounts.
Community & Resources
The primary resource for technical data and parts remains MacKay Boats in New Zealand and Ovington Boats in the UK. While the class is smaller than the VX One, it is often integrated into VX Class Association events, particularly in North America and Oceania. Technical support is frequently found through the designer's own channels, as Brian Bennett remains an active figure in the development of the VX range. Owners often leverage the shared knowledge of the VX One community for rigging tips and sail trim, as the two boats share a similar aerodynamic philosophy.
The Verdict
The VX Two is a specialist’s tool, designed for the sailor who loves the technicality of a skiff but prefers the tactical, "hiking-match" style of traditional dinghy racing.
Pros
- Exceptional Build: Constructed using vacuum-infused epoxy and carbon reinforcement by world-class builders.
- Pure Speed: One of the fastest hiking dinghies on the market, capable of outperforming many trapeze boats in the right hands.
- Ergonomics: Designed with crew comfort in mind, featuring a clean, uncluttered cockpit and logical control layouts.
Cons
- Physical Demands: While it lacks a trapeze, the hiking requirements are intense and require significant core strength.
- Niche Market: Finding one-design fleet racing can be challenging compared to more established classes like the Laser/ILCA or 420.
- Complexity: The high-performance rig and kite system require a higher level of maintenance and tuning than a standard club racer.
