Visitors to this week’s London Boat Show on the look out for a starter sailing dinghy, could do worse than check out Topper International’s new Taz dinghy.

This 2.95m singlehander designed by Ian Howlett and Rob White for young sailors has a similar rig to the Optimist with a lightweight two-piece alloy mast, and boom making it easy to transport and rig. However, unlike the Optimist, the Taz has the option of a small jib to allow for a crew, and its pleasing lines and clutter-free cockpit should make for exciting, fuss-free sailing.

Like all boats in the Topper range, the Taz features a simple-to-use lock down rudder system. And because she’s constructed using the Roto-moulding system with Trilam 3-ply Polyethylene honeycomb core sandwich, the Taz should prove resilient and hard wearing in the tough conditions she’s likely to encounter. Her overall hull weight is just 45kg to make for easy handling on shore. And her price tag at the show is ‘1,395 including launch trolley and cover.

For more details contact Topper International on 01233 629186.