This proved slightly disappointing with not too many craft of interest to dinghy cruisers. In the present economic climate it was not surprising to find public attendance rather poor as well. However, the following are worth looking at if you are in the market for a new boat. Prices quoted include VAT.

TIDEWAY — Yes, a DCA favourite at last produced in GRP. What is more, at a very reasonable price which could never be approached in timber. For those who mock, it should be stated that it has been approved by the Tideway Association. 12’ x 5’ x 8”(3’). Gunter rig — £1995. Tepco Boats, 17/18 High Street, Leigh Old Town, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.

LONGSHORE 16 — Double-ended hull of very attractive appearance, designed for sail and oar. Virtually flush decked with ‘sprawling’ cabin space below, open well aft. Long keel, no centreboard. Designed and built to a high standard by one man, even unto the hull moulding. An interesting and probably loveable boat. 16’5” x 6’2” x 1’6”. Boomless standing lug with foresail — £4760. Peter Harris, Avenue Farm, Winterbourne Monkton, Swindon, Wilts. SN4 9NW.

SANDWEAVER 16 — An unfortunate name for those that know about fish! Still, a soundly built conventional design (details in the last Bulletin), based on an east coast one-design. An interesting contrast to the above 16. 16’ x 6’ x ?(3’). Gunter or Bermudan sloop — £5085. Robin Godber, Lochin Yacht Centre, Rock Channel, Rye, East Sussex. TN31 7HJ.

It is tempting to sum up the difference between the above: to sail seriously or to cover a lot of ground — the Sandweaver. To potter around saltings and creeks regardless of weather, with a cosy space to shelter in — the Longshore. Are you a do-er or a dreamer?

JOLLY BOAT — There were two builders of this boat at the Wooden Boat Show last year. Here is another. I have yet to meet an example of this design on the water, which is a pity. Designed by Laurent Giles, which should guarantee the seaworthiness and sailing ability. Anybody in the market for a stable 14 footer should give it a hard look. Although on offer from boatbuilders, this and the associated designs from 12’ to 20’ were intended for home boatbuilding. The plans makes it as simple as it can be. I intend to build the 12’ Dabchick in the not too distant future. 14’7” x 6’3” x 1’3”(3’). Gaff sloop or yawl with bowsprit. Price according to stage of finish. Harwich Boatcraft, 4 Albert Street, Harwich, Essex. CO12 3HU.

Laurent Giles Ltd, The Station, Lymington, Hants. SO41 9AZ. Study plans £5, full plans £75, both plus VAT.