Lightweight dinghy for Tomcat..?

nwboater · Posted: Fri Oct 27, 2023 6:04 pm Post subject: Lightweight dinghy for Tomcat..?

Any recommendation for a lightweight dinghy for our new-to-us Tomcat 255? I like the Takacat T260 (55 lbs, 8.5'x5') but would like to know of other options. Do you carry it on the cabin top (we have the radar arch) or tied down in the cockpit?

thataway · Posted: Fri Oct 27, 2023 10:09 pm Post subject:

My own choices for the last few years has been a high pressure airfloor 9 1/2' PVC boat. It was branded West Marine. It was 68# and used on C Dory 22, 25 and TC 255. We used the Garhauer Davit--see my photo album, last page on use of this davit.

As for power, we have primarily used a Toqeedo electric motor~3 hp. I have also used a 2.5 hp Suzuki and a 3.5 hp (2 stroke) Merc. Larger boats I ran either a 15 hp 2 stroke or a 25 hp 2 stroke.

On my long distance cruising boats, I used a 12 1/2 Avon RIB with Hypalon and a 13' aluminum Floor Hypalon boat by Achillies.

I have no experience on theTakacat T260. It is fascinating as a concept. Wonder if in chop it will take water (no worry, because it is self bailing.

Catskinner · Posted: Fri Oct 27, 2023 10:23 pm Post subject: Dinghy

I have a Takacat 340 that I power with my 15hp Suzuki kicker motor!
It really gets with the program! I have a Garhauer davit system that mounts in two different positions. One on the gunnel for the boat and one in the cockpit for the motor which is #100. Works for the Hobie kayaks as well. Pictures in photos!

CS