Popular myths about 420 sailing

“It’s a hassle to co-ordinate with another sailor”…only true if you have picked the wrong sailor to partner with.  A committed sailor with a supportive family in fact make it easier as there are two of you offering support to move boats, move sailors, chaperone trips, etc.

“It’s expensive”…sailing is an expensive sport, but you already know that.  A good, top competitive, second hand 420 is relatively inexpensive, at $8-10k, usually with lots of sails and gear.  In fact, splitting the costs between two sailors makes 420 sailing quite similar in expense to a committed single-handed campaign.

“It makes it hard to go back to single-handed sailing”…completely untrue!!!  Gaining experience in the 420 increases your sailing ability and means it is easy to switch across classes, whether you are a skipper or a crew.  Top 420 sailors have jumped back into the Starling and have dominated the class, have represented New Zealand at the Olympics in Laser and have generally been very successful as their sailing careers have developed.

The 420 will give you a unique experience during your Youth years.