The boat is available in two sizes: the Reef 320 Carbon, which is 3.20 metres long and weighs 42 kilograms, and the Reef 350 Carbon, which is 3.50 metres long and weighs 48 kilograms. A complete sailing rig comprising mast, sail, centreboard and rudder is included as standard. Price: from €9,990. The Reef Carbon is aimed at sailors looking for an easy-to-handle sailing dinghy that can do more than just shuttle between the boat and the jetty. The carbon sandwich hull is designed to combine rigidity with extremely low weight – a feature that quickly becomes apparent when hoisting into davits, hauling ashore or handling on board. Weighing 42 kilograms at 3.20 metres in length, the Reef 320 Carbon is significantly lighter than comparable GRP hard-hull tenders, which typically weigh between 60 and 80 kilograms.
The open cockpit area with a flat floor offers ample storage space for jerry cans, fenders, anchors and other equipment. Non-slip pads on the deck and a forward platform ensure a secure footing. Seats, rubbing strakes and hull sides are fitted with two-centimetre-thick EVA foam protectors – these protect the hull when mooring whilst also providing comfortable seating. The wraparound fender serves a dual purpose: it absorbs impacts when mooring and increases the buoyancy reserve.
Standard sail plan
The Reef Carbon is delivered ready to sail. The centreboard, rudder, mast, sails, fittings and centreboard case plug are all included as standard. This means the sailing dinghy can be used as a small dinghy – for short sailing trips in the bay, as a plaything for children or simply for cruising without a motor. The sail area is moderately sized, so even inexperienced sailors can handle the boat safely. The rig can be quickly assembled and dismantled, meaning the sailing dinghy can also be used purely as a motor tender if required.
For motorised use, the Reef 320 Carbon is approved for up to 15 hp, and the Reef 350 Carbon for up to 20 hp. An aluminium motor mount, securing straps for the fuel tank, three retractable stainless steel cleats and wooden oars are included as standard. A special feature: fold-out wheels are fitted to the transom, making it easy to pull the dinghy onto the landing stage or slipway. Anyone interested in other sailable dinghies will find our comparison test There are numerous alternatives to sailing dinghies – from foldable inflatable boats to classic rigid-hulled sailing dinghies.
How much the fun costs
The Reef 320 Carbon costs €9,990 in the white version and €11,490 in the gloss carbon finish (prices include French VAT). This puts the sailing dinghy well above comparable GRP dinghies, which are priced in the range of €2,000 to €4,000. The premium reflects its low weight and carbon construction.
The boat is manufactured by the French company 3D Tender manufactured in Gouesnou near Brest and distributed through a European dealer network. The manufacturer also offers inflatable dinghies with a centreboard and rigging in its product range – an alternative for sailors who prefer a foldable sailing dinghy.
Further alternatives to inflatable boats – including carbon-fibre tenders such as the German ASTender – can be found in our comprehensive comparison article.
Technical specifications:
- Overall length: 3.20 m / 3.50 m (Reef 320 / Reef 350)
- Internal length: 2.45 m / 2.70 m
- Width: 1.75 m (both models)
- Internal width: 0.99 m
- Depth: 0.76 m
- Weight: 42 kg / 48 kg
- Number of people: 5
- Max. engine power: 15 hp / 20 hp
Standard equipment:
- Carbon sandwich hull and deck with a wraparound fender
- EVA foam protection on seats, skirting boards and the sides of the hull
- Non-slip deck pads and keel protection
- Lifting eyes, towing and lashing rings
- Retractable stainless steel cleats, handholds and side handles
- Storage pockets and anchor compartment
- Wooden oars, aluminium motor mount, launching wheels
- Centreboard, rudder, mast, sail, fittings, centreboard case plug
