Using only the power of the wind to propel the dinghy, leaving the paddle or motor at rest - what a wonderful idea. But installing a rig, a centreboard and a rudder system is much more complicated than simply starting the outboard motor. And then the prospect of the dinghy cutting a good figure under sail is not so good either - with a clear or at most half wind, it is more likely to drift than sail.
Inflatable boats from 2.20 to 3.30 metres in length can now be retrofitted with sails using a kit from Tribell. There are two versions of the system called Sailbird: one with 3.4 and one with 4.2 square metres. The manufacturer promises particularly easy assembly without tools within ten minutes. When not in use, the construction can be packed away in two bags. The mast, boom and gaff can be divided, the longest part is 117 centimetres long. With centreboards and rudder system, everything together should weigh 17 kilograms. The introductory price is the same for both sizes and is 986 euros.
According to the manufacturer, inflatable boats equipped with Sailbird should also have very good sailing characteristics in windy conditions. The centreboards are designed to almost completely prevent drift. Further information on the Website of the manufacturer.
