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A dinghy is a type of small boat, sometimes carried or towed by a larger vessel. The term can also
refer to small racing yachts or recreational open sailing boats. Utility dinghies are usually rowing
boats or have an outboard motor, and many are rigged for sailing. Because the smaller sailing dinghy
responds more quickly to manoeuvres, it is more suitable for beginner training in sailing than full-sized yachts.
Dinghies usually range in length from 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 metres). Larger auxiliary vessels are
generally called tenders, pinnaces or lifeboats. Folding and take-down multi-piece (nesting) dinghies
are used where space is limited. Some newer dinghies have much greater buoyancy, giving them more carrying
capacity than older boats of the same size.
Modern dinghies are typically made of glass-fibre reinforced plastic (GRP) because it requires minimal
care and does not rot. Water penetrating the outer coat can cause blistering and damage to lamination,
although this can be prevented with a barrier coat of epoxy resin. Other materials include aluminium, marine
plywood and, with the advent of sturdy, UV resistant urethane varnishes, wood. Some wooden dinghies (especially
of classic form) are built using the carvel or clinker methods. Favoured woods, in order of rot-resistance,
are White Oak, locust, species of Cedar and pine, true as well as African and Asian mahoganies, fir and spruce.
Bronze and stainless steel are good corrosion-resistant materials for hardware, although stainless steel
is subject to crevice corrosion and must be inspected and replaced fairly frequently when used for rigging and
some other parts. Working boats may use lower-cost galvanized steel, but the hardware may need to be
re-galvanized or replaced eventually.
All these different dinghies have one thing in common. They will benefit from the protection that a cover can offer.
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