by Mark Kondracky
Bruce Kirby, renowned designer of the Laser, Sonar and Ideal 18, brought his latest design, the Pixel, to Essex Yacht Club. Local frostbite sailors could check out the new design on land and take it out for a spin. The Pixel is designed for young sailors who have graduated from the opti, but not quite ready for a laser. While designed for the young, any sailor can appreciate its stability and ability to self rescue.
The boat features a carbon fiber mast and an open transom. Driven by the main, jib and a spinnaker the boat is about the same size as a Blue Jay but faster. On my test drive, I found the boat accelerates quickly and was incredibly maneuverable. It was like riding a skate board. You could get into some exciting tacking duels with the boats superior performance. The boat also features simple controls with minimal adjustments. With speed and stability, the Pixel will be a hit with young and older sailors alike. For more information go to brucekirbymarine.com