If you are starting in Wet Feet, you will be sailing in Optimist dinghies. They are safe, fun and sturdy boats in which to learn the basics and also progress to racing, should you wish.
Optimists are used for beginners, but most sailors continue to race them until they are 13 to 14 years old. The age limit for the class is 15, and the recommended sailor weight is a maximum of 120 pounds.
In CANSail 1, sailors will be introduced to single-handed Opti sailing. Once you move into CANSail 2, you continue learning in an Opti.
Optimists can be sailed comfortably by people from ages 8 to 15. This wide range of sailors is made possible by the different cuts of the boat’s sail. Due to its inherent stability, robust construction and relatively small sail, the Optimist is often sailed in winds up to 30 knots.
Once you reach CANSail 3/4 or 5/6, you will be sailing in 420’s, depending on your size and weight (though some sailors continue to race Optis through this level as well), or a Laser (4.7, Radial or full rig, depending on size and ability).
The 420 double-handed boat is great for learning the basics and for racing as well, and has a recommended sailor weight maximum of 240 to 280 pounds (combined, two sailors).
ILCA/Laser Development, Single-handed is for sailors who are 12 to 17 years of age, have passed all previous levels, and would like to focus on racing.
In ILCA / Laser Development, sailors will be introduced to the ILCA dinghy, also known as a Laser, which is very popular for racing.