Designed by renowned naval architect Bruce Kirby and first launched in 2000, this compact dinghy represents a scaled-down evolution of the legendary Laser sailing platform. The fiberglass construction and unstayed catboat rig make it an ideal choice for youth sailors, sailing schools, and adults seeking a simple yet responsive single-handed experience. At just under 14 feet overall, this nimble craft excels in protected waters, harbors, and lakes where its lightweight 128-pound displacement allows for easy beach launching and trailer transport. The centerboard configuration provides shallow-water versatility while maintaining excellent upwind performance when the board is fully deployed. The boat's relatively high sail area to displacement ratio of 31.88 delivers spirited performance in light to moderate conditions, though the capsize screening value of 3.56 indicates this is strictly an inshore vessel requiring attentive seamanship. The unstayed mast simplifies rigging considerably, making it particularly appealing for sailing programs and recreational sailors who value quick setup times. With its proven Kirby pedigree and straightforward systems, this dinghy offers an authentic sailing experience that emphasizes skill development over complexity. It's perfectly suited for day sailing, sailing instruction, and informal racing in sheltered venues.
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What is the Ilca 4 Laser 47's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Ilca 4 Laser 47 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 31.88. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Ilca 4 Laser 47's comfort ratio?
The Ilca 4 Laser 47 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 2.07. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Ilca 4 Laser 47 safe for offshore sailing?
The Ilca 4 Laser 47 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 3.56. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Ilca 4 Laser 47?
The theoretical hull speed of the Ilca 4 Laser 47 is 4.74 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Ilca 4 Laser 47 weigh?
The Ilca 4 Laser 47 has a displacement of 128.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 13.88 ft.
Who designed the Ilca 4 Laser 47?
The Ilca 4 Laser 47 was designed by Bruce Kirby, first built in 2000.