An Ice Optimist is the ice sailing version of the Optimist dinghy. It uses the Optimist mast, boom sprit, sail plan and sheets, with additional sidestays and forestay on the mast. The hull is streamlined in shape with a supporting cross plank underneath and 3 metal runners for contact with the ice. See full plans at www.icesailing.org and check on "Juniors" for plans and rules.

The age limits for the two classes are:

DN Juniors 15-21 in the Championship year (in 2010 those born in 1989)

Ice Optimist sailors 10-16 in the Championship year (in 2010 those born in 1994). 

All trainers and junior leaders are welcome to discuss younger sailors participating

In both classes

No, it is not necessary but you will find it much easier if you have already sailed on water.

Remember that you will be sailing at speed in cold weather and the "wind chill" factor brings the temperature down very low.   Layers of clothing are important so ski clothes plus a layer or two underneath is a good start.   Good, warm and strong gloves or mitts, a crash helmet (downhill ski helmet), ski goggles and strong shoes or boots.   Studded footwear is necessary for walking or running on ice and "slip-on" studs can usually be provided or purchased.   A life jacket would be mandated at the start of a course of Ice Optimist instruction.

An Ice Optimist is two-thirds of the length of a DN and is less powerful with a 3.25 sq.m. sail area. It is designed for young people starting to ice sail. The DN is a powerful, fast and more expensive ice yacht, sail area 6.25 sq.m.

The Swedish Ice Sailing Federation has a number of Ice Sailing clubs offering instruction and rental of Ice Optimists and DNs. 

For information see www.issegling.se    E-mail info@issegling.se 

The Ice Optimist can be built in wood or fibreglass. The approximate cost of a new yacht ready to sail with everything including one set of runners is between €900 and €1400. Plans for building are at www.icesailing.org and check on "Juniors". A used Ice Optimist would be less costly depending on its age and condition.

A DN  can only be made in wood and the cost of a new one depends upon who builds it. The approximate cost can vary between €10,000 and €30,000. Used DNS are available at less cost and often advertised on the Ice Sailing websites, for example a used DN for starting sailing could be €1,300.

Ice Sailing is safe so long as proper safety precautions are followed. These are taken very seriously by the Clubs offering sailing instruction.

Yes, see www.icesailing.org, click on "Juniors" and then click on "On-line manual Optimist Training". This contains information on many aspects of ice sailing.

http://www.junioricesailing.com/en/ice_optimist_training_manual/7/