I am wanting to buy a National for my daughter to helm. She's 5' 5" with similar crew and not very experianced. I'm thinking they're going to capsize it from time to time, so I want it to be reasonably easy for them to right it. Would one of the single skinned hulls be OK? These seem less expensive which is always good, but it's no good if I end up putting her off. She's hoping to sail at Salcombe this summer.
You are probably correct in thinking a non db boat would be best, they are said to be less unruly when capsized. Baggy trousers or crusaders (1st choice all rounder) would be good and a chunk more money (but a lot less effort in terms of maintenance) would buy a Design 8 (almost a plastic crusader), perfect for salt water sniddling at Salcombe!
Roger
I would recommend Fuzzy Duck which is up for £750. An excellant well looked after boat, even if I dont own her any more.
Simon