Choosing the Best Beach Dinghy: Lightweight, Easy Launch Options for Boaters

Choosing the Best Beach Dinghy: Lightweight, Easy Launch Options for Boaters

Living near the ocean with no dock presents unique challenges when it comes to boating, particularly with launching a dinghy. Whether you’re looking for something lightweight, easy to manage, or simply want a boat that can handle a gentle beach slope, choosing the right dinghy is crucial. In this post, we'll discuss some great options, features to look for, and tips to make launching as easy as possible based on insights from boaters on Reddit.

1. What Makes a Dinghy Suitable for Beach Launching?

When choosing a dinghy to launch from a beach, you’ll need a boat that is both light enough to carry or drag across the sand, but also sturdy enough to handle the elements. Some of the key factors to consider are:

• Weight: Since beach launching often requires moving the boat over the sand and possibly up or down a gentle slope, a lighter boat is generally easier to manage. This is especially important if you don’t have a dock and rely on hand launching.
• Durability: The dinghy should be able to handle the wear and tear of the beach, including being dragged across sand, exposure to saltwater, and UV damage.
• Material: Many dinghies are made from inflatable materials, but if you’re leaving it on the beach, you might want a sturdier option, as inflatables can degrade from prolonged exposure to sunlight and saltwater.
• Size: Consider the size of the dinghy based on how many people it needs to accommodate, how much storage space is required, and the weight capacity, especially when using a motor like a 9.9 HP engine.

2. Launching Challenges and Solutions

When launching from the beach, a common issue is the weight of the dinghy, especially with engines like the 9.9 HP motor. Reddit user ventureturner shared their experience with using a 9.9 HP engine on an aluminum dinghy and suggested considering a lighter motor to reduce weight. A two-stroke 9.9 HP engine is a great option as it can shave almost 20 pounds off the total weight, making launching a lot easier.

Another solution suggested was using an outhaul system, which is especially useful for beach launchers. bleahdeebleah explained how an outhaul system works: it uses a pulley system and a buoy to pull the dinghy in and out of the water without needing to drag it across the beach. This system reduces manual labor and keeps the dinghy secured at a safe distance when not in use. It’s particularly useful in places where the tide goes out far, leaving the boat stranded if it’s not pulled in at the right time.

3. Recommendations for Lightweight Dinghies

Finding the right dinghy for your beach launching needs involves balancing weight, durability, and price. Here are some top recommendations based on advice from seasoned boaters:

• AB Dinghies: These are highly recommended for their lightweight yet durable construction. Users on Reddit like ventureturner recommend AB Dinghies for their sleek design and ability to handle a 9.9 HP motor without adding too much weight. The aluminum models, in particular, are ideal for coastal and beach use.
• Whaly 210: If you’re looking for a very durable boat, the Whaly 210 is another excellent option. It’s constructed from tough polyethylene, making it resistant to UV damage and other environmental factors. It’s sturdy enough to handle rougher conditions while still being light enough for beach launches. Reddit user 4LOVESUSA suggests it as a great alternative to heavier boats with larger engines.
• Inflatable RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats): While not as durable over time in extreme conditions, inflatable RIBs are often lighter and easier to manage, making them an option worth considering for those who don’t mind replacing them after a few seasons. The tradeoff is that they often don't handle beaching as well as solid dinghies.

4. Things to Consider When Purchasing a Dinghy

When shopping for a dinghy, there are several things to keep in mind beyond just the material and weight:

• Engine Compatibility: Make sure the dinghy is compatible with your motor. A 9.9 HP engine is a popular choice, but it can be heavy. Consider a smaller engine or an outboard motor that is more lightweight and offers the necessary power for your needs.
• Portability: Can the dinghy be easily moved, either by hand or with transom wheels? The easier it is to move, the better it will work for your needs, especially if you’re launching from a beach.
• Storage Space: Consider how much space you need for gear. Some dinghies offer better storage compartments or attachment points for carrying additional items like coolers, fishing gear, or supplies.

5. Conclusion

Choosing the best dinghy for beach launching depends on your specific needs, but lightweight, durable boats like those from AB Dinghies or the Whaly 210 are great options. The key to a successful beach launch is managing weight, considering your engine, and potentially using systems like an outhaul to make the process easier. Whether you go for an inflatable RIB or a more traditional dinghy, the right boat will ensure you have smooth sailing (or rowing) as you head to and from shore.