I've been searching for the "perfect" hard dinghy, but so far have come up
empty.
It should:
row well in calm, chop and surf
carry my family + provisions - 500-600lb capacity minimum
be unsinkable - built in floatation or better, an inflateable collar (like
the new Walker Bay's)
fit on the foredeck = 8', requiring a two piece nesting design
function as a lifeboat - I can make/add what I feel is necessary
be equipped (or equippable) with a sailing rig
be durable and repairable - GRP is easier to patch than injection molded
plastic And of course, be affordable - less than $1500 for a used one in
good cond., new around $2000 with sailing rig

Any suggestions?

-Pete