Review – Annabelle and Oscar
Our names are Annabelle and Oscar, and we live on a sailboat in the Caribbean. I’m 16 and Oscar is 10.
Which Tiwal model do you have?
We have the Tiwal 3 small sailboat and we’ve had it for about a year. It’s the reefable version — we haven’t had to reef it yet, but it’s nice to have the option.
Where do you sail?
We’re currently in Saint Lucia. We sail around anchorages, the open ocean, and along the coasts and bays.
What was your experience before Tiwal?
We’ve gone to sailing camp, and we used to have a Laser, but it was too big to fit on our boat. So, we got something we could fold up — the Tiwal.
Single-handed or doucble-handed?
Usually, it’s just me and my brother sailing. Sometimes our little sister joins us, and our parents have taken it out too.
How do you use your Tiwal?
If it’s windy, two of us go together; in lighter winds, we can sail it solo.
How is it going so far?
It’s a great, super fun option — especially for how we live. It’s easy to use and I really like it. The frame was new to me — especially the outriggers on the sides — but I liked it right away.
What characteristics surprised you?
It’s cool how solid it feels. I had imagined something more like a paddleboard, but the frame really holds everything together. It’s a fast boat, and you can lean out — it’s awesome.
Is it easy to right a Tiwal?
It’s also very easy to manage. It’s super light compared to other boats we’ve used. You don’t need to drain it or anything — if it flips, you can just turn it back over and keep going.
What is your best memory with your Tiwal?
I can’t remember exactly where it was, but we’ve had moments sailing at sunset, with a perfect breeze, just the two of us. It’s so nice to be able to sail like that, and easy to pack up at the end of the day.
Where would you dream to sail with your Tiwal?
Maybe someday we’ll be doing that in French Polynesia — when we get there.
To learn more about Operation Luna Sea and their project, check the following links:
