As the name suggests, the Laser sailboat is renowned for its zippiness and the thrill of speed. While one can categorize it as a dinghy, it is usually bigger and longer than a traditional one. With almost a quarter of a million boats produced globally since the 1970s, the Laser sailboat is easily one of the most popular types of sailboats, second only to the Sunfish.
About the Laser Sailboat
Prima facie, the Laser sailboat looks a lot like the Sunfish. However, the mechanics of a Laser boat are designed towards more speed and control. Even the body is more aerodynamic thus being able to utilize the upwind and downwind better. It is no surprise then, that the Laser boat is one of the most common race sailboats that you will find on the water. In fact, since the Atlanta Olympic Games in 1996, the Laser has featured regularly in the sailboat racing event.
However, the Laser is not all about speed. While it is lightweight, it handles superbly and has a very sturdy hull. The ease of operability makes it ideal for boaters just starting out in this great American pastime. Let’s check out some of the key features that make the Laser sailboat eternally popular among newbies and veterans alike.
Features of the Laser Sailboat
- Fiberglass hull for speed, durability and longevity
- Aluminum spars that keep the weight low while ensure it can withstand strong winds
- Fiberglass foils
- Harken Race upgrade Cunningham/Outhaul kit (in select models)
- Harken Race upgrade Boom Vang / Kicker (in select models)
- Gorilla tiller and extension for more flexible steering and enhanced maneuverability
- The official Laser Class legal Mark II sail
- 60mm Harken ratchet block that offers a strong yet comfortable grip
- Padded toe strap for the comfort and safety of the sailor
- Line kit for operating the sail
Laser Sailboat Specifications
Here are some details regarding the boat’s dimensions and other vital specifications:
| Length Overall | 13 feet 9 inches to 14 feet |
| Length In Water | 12 feet 6 inches |
| Hull Weight | ~ 60 kgs |
| Type | Monohull |
| Beam | 4 feet 7 inches |
| Sail Area | 76 square feet |
| Crew | One |
| Chassis | Fiberglass |
* Features and specification may vary for the different variants such as Laser 2, Laser Pico, Laser Radial, etc.
Other Notable Aspects of the Laser Sailboat
The Laser is a customizable dinghy and the hull can accommodate rigs that are interchangeable and sail areas that differ accordingly. This is one of the several features that make it an easy to operate boat across different water and wind conditions.
Furthermore, the Laser is light and portable. This makes it rather easy to stow away and move around in a trailer-rig. Racing enthusiasts all over the world can be seen driving around with their Lasers while gathering for events, adding to the charm and the charisma of the atmosphere.
Another reason for its massive popularity is that it is one of the most affordable boats that you can hope to buy. Being a slim, bare, and a no-fuss boat, the Laser does not have expensive components or parts that add to its cost. It is a one-person operated vessel that costs less than most other types of boats and is low on maintenance as well. Due to its wide presence, it can be easily serviced across any boatyard or service center at nominal costs and there is usually a high availability of spare parts as well.
In Summation
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner, if you like simplicity and speed, then the Laser sailboat is made for you. Its bare-minimum elegance and compact design helps it stand out among the crowd on the water while its peppiness helps you leave the crowd behind in a jiffy.
