Tips for downsizing

I have had contact with quite a few yacht owners over the last few years who have decided to downsize to a Wayfarer. An often cited reasons are the flexibility to tow and launch, plus the increased sense of adventure wayfarer cruising gives.

Room with a view

Two most important considerations - obvious, I know, but the wayfarer doesn't have a keel and therefore it will capsize. However it is a very stable dinghy and married with an efficient reefing system is very safe. In over 50 years I have never capsized on a cruise. The second important point is Wayfarers don't have lids, but in fine weather what they do have is infinite headroom. There is work to do converting from sailing to camping (if that is your intention), but once complete and with the front half of the tent up acting as a windbreak you will have all round views whilst relaxing in the aft of the cockpit.

I always sleep extremely well in the Wayfarer - down sleeping bag on Thermarest mattress inside a goretex bivvy bag. Never felt cold or damp.

Also very important is food. I cook meals in a bag using a jetboil stove. Nourishing, hot and quick. We certainly don't rough it.

There are so many ways you can start off Wayfarer cruising - from easy inland waters to the west coast of Scotland. You've just got to dip your toe....

This may give you some idea of what's possible... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0yBrA2xFEU&t=1692s