Laser Dinghy Sailing
Laser Dinghy Sailing — Why I Got Addicted and Why You Should Try It
I started sailing Lasers on Rutland Water and I have never fully recovered. That is meant as a compliment. I now prefer the bigger boats but any excuse to have a race in a Dinghy and I’m there.
There is something about a Laser — now officially called the ILCA following the class’s rebranding — that hooks people. It is just a fibreglass hull, an aluminium mast, and a sail. No trapeze, no spinnaker, no gadgets. Just you, the boat, and the wind. And it is absolutely brilliant.
What Is a Laser?
The Laser was designed by Bruce Kirby in 1969 and first raced in 1970. It became the most popular single-handed racing dinghy in the world and was an Olympic class from 1996 until its rebranding as the ILCA in recent years. There are more Lasers sailing in the world than any other single-handed dinghy.
The boat is simple by design. One sail. One hull. Identical class rules mean the racing is pure — whoever wins does so because they sailed better, not because their boat is faster. That strict one-design philosophy is a big part of why the class has endured for over 50 years.
The ILCA comes in three rig sizes:
ILCA 4 (formerly Laser 4.7) — the smallest rig, designed for lighter and younger sailors. Ideal for RYA Level 3 sailors wanting their first performance single-hander.
ILCA 6 (formerly Laser Radial) — the mid-range rig, the most popular at club level and the women’s Olympic class. Suits sailors roughly 55 to 75kg.
ILCA 7 (formerly Laser Standard) — the full rig, the men’s Olympic class. For heavier and stronger sailors. Not recommended as a first rig.
Why Rutland Water Is One of the Best Places to Start
Rutland Water is one of the largest reservoirs in England and home to Rutland Sailing Club — one of the most active dinghy sailing clubs in the Midlands. The conditions are consistent, the water is flat compared to coastal sailing, and there are large fleets of Lasers and other dinghies racing every weekend throughout the season.
Inland reservoir sailing is genuinely one of the best ways to start. No tides to worry about, predictable conditions, and safety boat cover on every session. For anyone in the East Midlands wanting to get into Lasers, Rutland Water is where I would send them. NOTE: there are so many other excellent places to learn to sail!
Why the Laser is So Addictive
I couldn’t get over the speed the first time we really got some wind up… but first – The Laser capsizes. That is part of it. Every mistake has an immediate consequence — too much heel, too little mainsheet, misjudge a gust — and you are in the water. And then you right the boat, climb back in, and figure out what you did wrong. The feedback loop is immediate and there is nowhere to hide.
That responsiveness is exactly what makes it brilliant for learning. You become a better sailor faster in a Laser than in almost any other boat because the boat tells you everything.
And when you get it right — when you are hiking hard on the wire, the boat is flat and fast, and you are actually sailing it rather than just surviving it — there is very little in sailing that matches that feeling. I got addicted on Rutland Water and I have never been surprised that other people do too.
Getting Started in Lasers
You do not need to own one to start. Most sailing clubs that run Laser fleets have club boats available to hire for sessions. Join the club, complete your RYA Level 2 course, and then book onto their Laser fleet. You will be in good company.
If you decide you want your own boat — second-hand Lasers are excellent value. A decent club-standard Laser can be found for £1,500 to £3,000. The class is so popular that second-hand boats always hold their value well and are easy to sell if you decide to move on.
Essential Kit for Laser Sailing
Osprey | Dinghy Buoyancy Aid 50N
FULLY CERTIFIED BOUYANCY JACKET: by ISO 12402 number -0514, designed to provide flotation and support whether you’re paddleboarding or kayaking This piece of safety gear is ideal for range of different watersports. High visibility and various sizes, this robust Bouyancy Aid is perfect for any watersport.
Osprey 3mm Source Eco Full Length
This all round wetsuit is perfect for recreational sailing 3mm full length is perfect for the spring and summer months, you’ll want a thicker one for winter if you’re brave enough. Unisex and varios sizes perfect for the whole family. Strong and rugged and great value
Azure Extreme Grip Sailing Gloves
Excellent Protection: The Extreme Grip Amara palm provides the best protection against scalding or blisters and gives better grip. Long finger design of the gloves provide better protection for your fingers than regular fingerless design.
RYA Start Sailing Handbook
This book serves as a comprehensive guide for those eager to delve into the world of sailing, offering insights into basic sailing techniques. It details the RYA National Sailing Scheme, providing structured learning paths and practical advice on tacking, gybing, and sail trimming.
FAQs
Is the Laser suitable for beginners?
With the Laser Pico and 4.7 rig it is excellent for beginners who have completed at least RYA Level 2. The full rig is not recommended for beginners — too much power and too little stability.
Why is it now called an ILCA?
The class was renamed the ILCA following a legal dispute between the class association and the original builder. The boats are identical — only the name has changed. Most sailors still call them Lasers.
Is Laser sailing expensive?
Compared to offshore sailing or yacht racing — no. A second-hand Laser plus basic kit is achievable for under £3,000. Annual maintenance and club fees are modest. It is one of the most accessible performance sailing options in the UK.
The information in this article is for general guidance. Always sail within your ability and ensure appropriate safety equipment is worn at all times.
