Question
Answer
Q: If I’m racing, is a new boat faster than a old one?
A: Certainly if the old boat is broken down, but old boats can have legs equal to new boats. Used boats may take varying amounts of work, and some old boats cannot be brought back. Old boats are never a bargain, but they can get people into our sport on the cheap, and a good old boat can even be fast. New boats require zero additional investment, are guaranteed to be fast and come with a 5 year limited warranty. Not to mention new sails and a trailer. Finally, another good indicator is that if you like having nice new things, and you can afford it, then a new boat is for you.
Q: If I’m just day sailing, why should I buy a new scot?
A: New boats don’t require maintenance for a long time. They come with a 5 year warranty limited warranty, but last so much longer than that. So, not only are new boats obviouly prettier, and you can pick your options, and color layouts, but they are reliable. So you can just go sailing, and not have to worry about anything else!
Q: Why do sailors seem to be converting to the Flying Scot.
A: Our customers have always told us that the Flying Scot checks the most boxes. It’s comfortable, stable, and safe. She’s easy to trailer and she can even be sailed up on a beach. The list goes on… she’s fast, and nimble… She pops up on a plane in under 15MPH of wind, but it’s a stable and dry planing experience. The other thing that our customers have been saying lately, is that they trust us to be here, providing customer service, for years to come. To that we say thank you! We will be here:)
Q: Can I get my old boat re-furbished
A: We certainly offer repairs at Flying Scot Inc. Total boat refurbishments can get pretty expensive, but you will be happy with the result. Usually we’re asked to repair a few items at a time, and in essense, provide partial refurbishment.
Q: Where should my rake and tension be set at.
A: Your new boat will can with these adjustments set upon request. If you’re racing, then it depends on your sailing style. The most common tuning is right around 28’5″ on the rake and 110 pounds on the forestay. You can find more info on tuning on our how to page and the sailmakers tuning guides here Sails
Q: Does my board need shimmed?
A: All boats from the factory come with shims, though it’s not always been that way. If you’re boat is less than 20 years old, then it should have a shim, though it may show wear and need re-done. We suggest bringing your boat to the factory for it’s shim. We do this a lot!
Q: Can the Scot be capsized?
A: Yes, but not easily. Furthermore, if the centerboard is down then she just wants to lay on her side. We have a 90 pound girl at sail camp that can right the boat.
Q: I’m not sure how to rig a FS.
A: All boats bought from the factory come with a 6 hour demonstration where we’ll show you how we rig, launch and sail the FS.
A: We also offer lessons, basic rigging manuals, and online tutorials.
Q: What should I look for when buying a used boat.
A: We highly suggest sailing the boat before purchasing to make sure the centerboard goes up and down smoothly. Make sure that the jib tracks are still tight, the mast and boom are not bent, and tap every square inch of the boat where there’s wood core. If it sounds hollow, don’t buy that boat. Of course check all blocks, fittings, sails, attachments and accessories for there condition.
A: If you’re going to be racing we also suggest that you weigh the boat before purchasing it, and check to see if the shim in the centerboard is still good.
Q: What kind of repairs can be done on a Flying Scot
A: We can fix anything, but some boats will not be worth the investment. Also, please note that we will not replace centerboard trunks in old Custom Flex Boats