The range of boats produced by Rhode Island-based Vanguard Sailboats reads very much like the Who’s Who of the dinghy world. They build such classes as the Laser, the Sunfish, the Vector and ‘learner boat’ of champions to be, the Optimist. The latest boat to roll off the launching trolley at Vanguard is the Nomad; a 17’ daysailer that combines comfort, stability and ease of use with excellent ‘on the water’ performance. Designed by Bob Ames, the Nomad can be rigged in less than 20 minutes and is easily launched from a slipway or beach. It can be readily sailed ‘single-handed’ but equally has enough room for four adults. With its light and strong ProBalsa sandwich-cored hull, tapered mast and North 3DL RM sails, it offers exhilarating performance. At the same time there is ample storage space for fishing and camping trips and even a place to stow a motor should the wind die on the way home.