Having first received, read and re-read the Spring (2003) Bulletin, I feel compelled to write telling the association how much I am enjoying them. The Wayfarer and Wanderer association magazines are matchless, each specialising in every aspect of the use of these wonderful dinghies. The DCA’s magazine is totally different, being so varied in its range of dinghies and adaptation of their uses.

In the recent Bulletin, the Top Ten interested me in particular. Not at all surprised that the Wayfarer came out as No. 1, I thought members might like to know that her “baby sister”, the “Gull Spirit” will soon climb up the ratings.

Ian Proctor designed the Wayfarer and the Gull in the same year. Both were double chine, wooden dinghies - the Gull being gunter rig, the Wayfarer Bermudan rig.

In the 1970's the Gull was redesigned in the GRP and became a tippy round bilge boat. In the 1990's the “Gull Spirit” was born, - double chine again, but built in GRP. This dinghy can be sailed, rowed, sculled and used with an engine; she is stable and easy to launch and recover for the single-hander, and one can sleep afloat. Best of all she sails superbly - very like her big sister.

Today is the launch of the new National Maritime Museum overlooking Falmouth harbour. Wanderer, our Wayfarer No. 48, loves living there. A beautiful building, a wonderful display of nautical history. See you there!

Margaret Dye and Wanderbug

Gull Spirit specification:

Length 3.3 metres Beam 1.6 metres Weight 88kg Draught 3feet (centre board) Portsmouth No. RN.1361