Laser II Doublehander

Advantages: Great fun and easy to sail
Disadvantages: Initial concerns about laser build quality

...Following a bit of research around other sailing centres I decided to try the Laser 2000 - I was looking for a boat to suit beginners and more experienced sailors, young people and adults alike. The "demo" boat proved to be well balanced and great fun to sail, the quality of fittings was good and the systems were simple and worked well. The boat is a good tool for introducing beginners to the latest generation of boats and provides a stable platform to introduce asymetric kites, with no trapeze and a clear cockpit layout it looks set to replace the old wayfarers in our fleet. For both centre and private use I would recommend the following modifications:- 1. Replace the rope rudder foil downhaul with a fail safe element - shock cord etc - the foil is quite deep and liable to damage on grounding. 2. Part of the same problem... Read review

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Advantages: it's quick, fun and a supreme singlehander for all ability levels
Disadvantages: Can be cold when you go in for that early swim

...The laser is a boat for everyone, and for every oppotunity. Here are a few tips to consider when buying a new laser. When looking for a new boat, you want something... L longlasting - you down want to be forking out large sums of money on a regular occasion. With the laser it is just the one payment and then enjoyment; this is mainly due to the fact that it is a one design fleet. You cannot go out and buy equipment that wil give you an unfair advantage, as it all has to be the same. The laser therefore provides racing that brings out the talent rather than just those sailors who are loaded. A adaptable - the laser comes with 3 different rig sizes, which will cater for both differing abilities and differing conditions. The hull however is the same. To change the sail size all you need is firstly the sail, and secondly... Read review

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Advantages: fun, fast and singlehanded
Disadvantages: a bit quercky off wind

...I have been involved with Lasers since the early '80s mostly in teaching environments. They are very adaptable - having a series of different sized rigs to suit people of different sizes and ages. Being a strict one-design they are useful in coaching - the difference in performance being due to the sailor rather than other factors. Being one-design does mean that for serious racing you need to buy your spares from the manufacturer and there is no scope for tweeking outside very strict perameters. They are fun to sail, simple to rig and are suitable for improvers and above - you need to be fit and agile in higher wind strengths. The mainsheet can hook-up on the corner of the transom when tacking and (usually) gybing when you are reaching or further off the wind. The secret is to add in a roll and a flick of the sheet as the boom... Read review

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