About the Ice Opti Ice Boat for Kids

2. What's the difference between a DN and an Ice Optimist?

3. Why are Ice Optimists better than DNs for kids?

4. How much does it cost to buy or build an Ice Optimist?

5. Where can kids sail their Ice Optimists?

6. When can kids sail their Ice Optimists?

8. How can kids get started in ice boating?

1. What is an Optimist ice boat?
It was created specifically as a youth trainer. It was designed to be easy to build using commonly available materials, to keep costs to a minimum. It uses a standard Optimist dinghy sail plan (hence the name), so youth sailors can use much of the same equipment in summer and winter, if they sail/race in both seasons.

2. What's the difference between a DN and an Ice Optimist?
An Ice Optimist is a smaller, less powerful boat than a DN. It is about two feet shorter in length, has a narrower plank, has less sail area, is easier to build, is far less costly, and is generally sailed in a bit more comfortable upright position.

3. Why are Ice Optimists better than DNs for kids?
A DN is no longer an "entry level" ice boat that is well-suited for kids. Although technology advancements have made modern DN's easier to sail than their predecessors, they are also faster and far more expensive--two factors that really make them less appropriate as a youth trainer. An Ice Optimist provides performance and stability that are a better match for the experience level and self confidence of most "green fleeters."

4. How much does it cost to buy or build an Ice Optimist?
An Ice Optimist can be built for about $1,000; the majority of the cost being accounted for by the sail plan ($500 used) and the runners ($300 used). By contrast, a modern DN can easily exceed $7,000. Building an Ice Optimist requires no special tools. Many are built with straight sideboards eliminating the need for bending/re-gluing or complex angle cuts.

5.Where can kids sail their Ice Optimists?
Ice Optimists can be sailed on smaller sheets of ice than other ice boats. Small lakes and even larger ponds can be quite suitable. They should always be sailed under tight supervision by adults.

6. When can kids sail their Ice Optimists?
The 4LIYC will be hosting youth races over the lunch breaks during weekend club races and other youth training opportunities, such as dry land discussions/parties, are being planned.

7. Is ice boating safe for kids?
Ice boating is safe for kids as long as proper safety precautions are followed. Under no circumstances should kids be ice boating alone or without close adult supervision. Proper safety gear is mandatory: a helmet, ice creepers, ice picks, a whistle, warm clothing. Kids should never be sailing on thin ice or near open water; for peace of mind, wearing a life jacket is a good idea.

8. How can kids get started in ice boating?
Contact Daniel Hearn, the 4LIYC Juniors Fleet Captain. He'd be glad to show you a boat, give you building plans and construction tips, point you to sources for materials/parts, discuss the clubs approach to teaching juniors, etc. (H)608-251-4191. danielhearn@tds.net