Gig Harbor Boat Works

[RobMcClain]

As my wife and I await the build and delivery of our CW 30S, we are considering dinghy options. Several years ago we had a Zodiac Fastroller inflatable on a sailboat. It wasn’t a cheap boat, but it was poorly built and constantly leaked both air and water. On top of that, we found the dealer to be generally unresponsive. This time around we want to go with a more solid dinghy and one that has more versatility - so we can row, sail, and motor. One of the builders we are impressed with is Gig Harbor Boat Works. Specifically, their Captain’s Gig, which is just over 9 feet, and possibly their Nisqually, which is just under 8 feet. We like the additional length and stability the Captain’s Gig provides so that’s the front runner in our eyes. We haven’t seen or experienced either of these boats so I am curious if any of you have. Additionally, I’m interested in any general comments about the company and their build quality. What I recall from years past is very good but times change so current feedback would be most appreciated… Thanks!

Rob

 

[Cutwater28GG]

i looked at them as well. they are great boats. They are quite heavy so be thoughtful as to how much weight you put on the stern and how heavy they are to lift onto the davits (depending on the davit install you go with)

 

[RobMcClain]

Your point on the weight is very well taken. That is definitely a consideration. Interestingly enough, one of the other boats on our consideration list is the Portland Pudgy, which several RT & CW owners use mounted on the swim platform The Pudgy weighs in ~40 pounds heavier than the Captain’s Gig, which is a substantial increase in weight. Whatever boat we finally go with we plan to use the Weaver Swim Platform Davits. Pulling the boat vertical would certainly be much easier with either of the Gig Harbor boats. I plan to use a 4/1 or 5/1 block system to raise it.

 

[FWTMD]

I cannot speak from first hand experience on the Gig Harbor. But a chap on another board I haunt had one and raved about it. Very easy to row, and very easy on the eyes (just a great looking boat).

The Pudgey was designed to be a combo lifeboat and dingy. Different mission. It won't row as well. But it won't sink. Lots of lifeboat-like options you can get.

I would also throw in for consideration the Whaley, which comes in different sizes. It can carry a bit more weight, and with a design that is sort of like a hard hull rib, it has more edge stability as you climb aboard, than the other two.

These are 3 very different boats. Each with its own strengths. Neither one "best", and more a question of what is important to you.

 

[Cutwater28GG]

another option: http://www.dinghyshop.com/category/DYER.html

lots of options rowing and sailing. and multiple lengths.