Billie Marine, boat builder from Morbihan (56) launches a stackable rigid dinghy propelled by a sail, an oar, a scull or a motor. The principle is simple and is inspired by the experience of Pierre-Marie Bernard, manager of the shipyard, who has been working on the subject for several years. "When I was a child, I sailed in Venezuela with my family on a 10-metre sailboat and our dinghy was an optimist", he explains.
Available in 3 sizes (but with the possibility of custom design), the "Billie Twin's" is made up of two modules that are light (45 kg) and easy to assemble. In a standing position in a garage (or shed) or in a lying position on the deck of his boat (with transparent inserts under the hull to see the deck of his boat), this dinghy is practical to store and transport.
It's easy to put it together. Simply position the two pieces opposite each other and add a "key" between them. A closed key (trunk with lid) for rowing practice or an open key to let an engine through. Add 2 side bolts and it's done! The whole thing is easy to assemble, afloat and even with chop.
Inspired by a small Optimist, the dinghy can also be fitted with an Optimist sail and daggerboard.
In the largest model (11, 14 and 16 feet), there are two 90 L ballast tanks that can also be used as a livewell. This configuration could also be used on the smaller model, allowing younger sailors to sail like an Optimist at anchor. The largest model can accommodate 5 people, while the smallest model can accommodate 3.
The varnish finish keeps the wood look desired by Pierre-Marie Bernard, the site manager. But it is also possible to opt for a paint finish.
Whatever the model, the layout remains the same, but most importantly, the key is common. It is only the width that varies from one model to another. On board, there's a bench to sit on, but there are also hooks to attach a fender that will act as an additional bench. Another particularity is that the smaller one can be stacked in the larger one, to carry everything easily in a "Russian doll" way.
A dinghy that will not be suitable for a small boat, but rather for a cruise ship, since you must have a deck big enough to carry this small wooden boat. A dinghy that can also be used as a small dinghy and can be easily transported in the trunk of your car.
Awards :
- 6800 euros (11 feet)
- 8700 euros (14 feet)
- 9500 euros (16 feet)
