We test-drive... err, test-sail a new boat!

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Thanks to Dave Ellis, owner of a new Raider II Turbo sailboat, we had a chance to sail around in a new type of boat. Not just new to us, but relatively new to the sailing world.



Here are Cadets Ferree & Taylor showing how easy it is to go fast in this boat




This is a 16' sloop with a innovative hull design. It is very ergonomic and efficient. It is easy (in fact it's downright comfortable) for the skipper & crew to place their weight far outboard for increased righting moment... in other words, you can hike out farther & harder, with less work... and that means more horsepower coming from the sails. The "wings" on the sides of the hull are also very buoyant, and increase the reserve stability such that the boat is very difficult to capsize.

The sails are also designed to produce more power. Of course, this means BIGGER sails, but they also have full battens at the top (this is not really a new idea, but in this boat it is very well implemented) for a more efficient aspect ratio, and complete adjustments for shape.


The Raider jib is set on a roller-furler, so the boat can be sailed easily with just the mainsail or as a sloop.

Here we see Coach King advising the test pilots on how to unfurl the jib, and then furl it back up again if desired. The jib is a great way to keep the crew busy!






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Blackbeard Sailing Club in the background, the Raider zooming along close-hauled... dealing easily with the motorboat wake... and in the foreground, Cadet Taylor practicing his boat-handling skills.
















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Looking down to make sure that feet are under hiking straps... okay guys now hike the boat flat!

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One of the advantages of the Raider is the double hull allowing the cockpit to be completely self-bailing.






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A brief rest on the beach before putting the boat away.













... posted by Assistant Coach Douglas King