Javelin dinghy vs Widgeon 12
How do the Javelin dinghy and Widgeon 12 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Javelin dinghy 
Widgeon 12 | Javelin dinghy | Widgeon 12 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 17.6 ft5.38 m | 12.3 ft3.76 m |
| Waterline length | 13.2 ft4.01 m | 12.0 ft3.66 m |
| Beam | 5.6 ft1.70 m | 5.0 ft1.52 m |
| Draft | 3.8 ft1.17 m | 3.5 ft1.07 m |
| Displacement | 475 lb215 kg | 180 lb82 kg |
| Ballast | 49 lb22 kg | —— |
| Sail area | 125 ft²11.6 m² | 90 ft²8.4 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 32.85 | 45.17 |
| Displacement / Length | 93 | 47 |
| Comfort ratio | 5.1 | 2.7 |
| Capsize screening | 2.86 | 3.54 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 4.9 | 4.6 |
Javelin dinghy vs Widgeon 12: the short version
- The Javelin dinghy is the larger boat at 17.6 ft5.38 m LOA versus 12.3 ft3.76 m for the Widgeon 12.
- The Javelin dinghy is heavier, displacing about 164% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Widgeon 12 carries the more powerful rig (45.2 vs 32.9), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Javelin dinghy scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Javelin dinghy rates better for offshore work (2.86 vs 3.54).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.