Dinghies for the Caribbean.

Graham Payne, April 2007

We had enjoyed the Tinker Tramp for its obvious qualities - great to row, incredibly easy to stow and the ability to turn it into a sailing dinghy. The unfortunate truth however, is that it is not very suitable as a yacht tender in the Caribbean where there may be long dinghy journeys needed from the anchorage. It was way too small and the low bow led it to be swamped on more than 1 occasion! When we had some problems with the tubes coming away from the floor, its days were numbered. We had wanted to retain the portability and the obvious choice was an Avon 310 with its inflatable floor. This could be rolled up easily and stowed on our aft deck. However the Avon is expensive in the Caribbean and once we were given the opportunity by the skipper of "Spray" to test drive the Caribe L9, we were instantly converted by the solid security of the rigid floor, the space of the wide design and its performance with out paltry 3.5 hp outboard. We knew then why 75% of Caribbean cruisers use this RIB or one similar from AB. We also know that the big compromise would come with the stowage of a solid RIB. Our first disappointment was it's performance when towed. The unique shape of the bottom makes it very easy to plane with a small outboard but also means it is not directionally stable when towed. A towing bridle is needed but this is an option and Island Water World did not stock the necessary fittings. However we were delighted the first time we stowed it on the foredeck. I had thought we would have to deflate it but it fits very well inflated and causes very little interference with the sailing and handling of Éowyn. Overall we are delighted, although I must say I am now tempted to buy a larger outboard to make use of the planing performance of the Caribe!