Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Weta a One Design Class?
Yes. The rules for the class allow for some equipment changes that do not enhance performance, but accommodate for personal preferences and enable those with limited mobility to sail the boat safely and without effort.
Where can I find Weta fleets?
In Australia there are established racing fleets in ACT (Canberra), NSW (Sydney, Pittwater, Clarence River, Lake Illawarra), QLD (Bundaberg, Noosa, Brisbane) and VIC (Melbourne). There are also \fleets being established in Western Australia in Perth and in South Australia in Adelaide. Weta Class Regattas, as well as State and National Titles are held around the country.
Weta fleets are established in China, Croatia, France, Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Sweden, UK and USA. Over 1300 boats have been sold worldwide since it was launched in 2009.
Find a Weta near you using the Weta World Map.
Is there an Australian Class Association?
The Australian Weta Class Association Inc was registered in 2017 and has representatives from around the country on the committee. For more information and to join or renew your membership go here. The first national championships will be held in December 2020 at Lake Cootharaba near Noosa - details here.
Where was the Weta designed?
Weta Marine designed the Weta in New Zealand after 6 years development with input from various design experts and it was launched in 2008. It's named after the NZ native Weta insect - a species of giant flightless crickets.
Where is the Weta made?
Initial prototypes and early production boats were built in New Zealand but production was soon switched to China to allow for volume construction. In 2014 production was switched to Australian-run, Xtreme Sailing Products (XSP) based in Singapore - one of the top 3 dinghy manufacturers worldwide, they also make Tasars, 49ers, Optimists, Finns and other boats for world markets.
XSP created a new mould and revised the internal construction of the boat to make them easier and more consistent to manufacture and sail manufacture was switched to North Sails. In 2018 the construction of the main hull and floats was switched to foam-core producing a lighter, stiffer product on the class weight limit of 120 Kgs and North Sails introduced the Square Top 9.3SqM sail as well as revising the entire sail wardrobe to a more modern bi-radial cut.
What is the Weta construction?
The hull, floats and deck are foam sandwich laminate. All components including the float frames are vacuum bagged to get an excellent laminate bond and to eliminate any excess resin. This ensures a fine tolerance on the weight of all boats. Vinylester resin is used for added strength and rigidity. Epoxy glue is used in all hull/frame/beam joins.
The mast, trampoline beams, bowsprit, rudder stock, rudder, daggerboard, tiller and tiller extension are carbon with fiberglass blended in certain areas in some components. The deck gear is mostly top quality Ronstan components with some custom components.
Is there a self-tacking jib available
The self-tacking jib was introduced in 2020 and provides a simple track with mounts which can be bonded to the deck with adhesive. In 2020 the track support was built-in to the Weta deck. The self-tacking jib kit comes with all components apart from the adhesive (Fixtech 15 recommended). The sail is 6% smaller than the standard jib but has a deeper foot. The benefits are you can concentrate on boat handling and steering for smoother, faster tack and gybes - instead of having to try to steer and tack three sails at the same time. More info here.
Are there modifications available for disabled sailors.
There are many Weta sailors who have some mobility issues who manage well with the standard setup - but they may just take more time. However, with the new Self-Tacking Jib and Twin Tiller Extension kits, it’s now even easier to sail – particularly if you have any mobility issues. Details of various modifications are here.
What sailcloth is used?
All sails are manufactured by North Sails (world renown for its high quality sails) and the sails have been redesigned for 2018 with a flatter bi-radial cut and new square top mainsail. The main and jib sails are constructed from X-PLY which is a top of the range Mylar/fiber laminated cloth that is durable and holds its shape well. This transparent cloth gives the skipper high visibility improving safety. The gennaker (screecher) is constructed from Contender Sailcloth Maxlite 150 - a high quality, non-stretch, rip-stop spinnaker cloth that comes in a variety of bright colors.
Can the Weta be used to teach people to sail?
The Weta is an excellent boat to teach sailing in. It has the following advantages:
How much weight can the Weta take?
With a maximum capacity of 240Kg, the Weta handles 3 adults very well. There is plenty of space but because the power to weight ratio is reduced, the boat will have a reduced performance in light winds. In a bit of breeze the boat is still very lively and in light winds makes for a nice social sail and it's really exciting for two in a blow! It is very safe for young inexperienced sailors.
Can an outboard motor be fitted to the Weta?
Weta Marine recommends using a simple paddle which is a fraction of the price and works well as the boat is lightweight and cuts through the water efficiently. This method has been successfully used to get in and out of the dock. Others have used electric, propane and petrol powered outboard engines which can be very effective for those who have to get through a narrow waterway to get to open water, for example. More info here.
What are the individual weights of the Weta components?
The approximate weight of the main hull is 60kg and each float (including beam frame) is 18kg which is the heaviest component lifted during assembly (but only to insert the float arms into the main hull). The carbon mast is 6Kg and can easily be mounted by one person. An optional hinged mast step is available for anyone who has difficulty stepping the mast.
Can you capsize the Weta?
Yes. Although the Weta is very stable -- like any boat it can be capsized when pushed to the limit in a strong breeze.
How do you right the Weta after a capsize?
"Capsizing is hard ~ righting is easy - even in strong winds and without any outside assistance"
Brute strength and weight is not required, no ropes, no powerboats etc as this only causes damage.
The procedure for righting a capsized Weta;
Are there options for the arrangement of the mainsheet system?
The Weta mainsheet system comes standard with a cleat in the block. Owners can modify theirs to suit their personal preference. Modifications to date have included ratchet blocks, swivel cleats and bridles. At the 2017 World Masters Games in Auckland, most of the Australian boats had a bridle system created by looping a line around the rear float arms - this allows you to tack without letting go of the tiller. Twin tiller systems are also allowed.
Can the main sail be reefed?
A smaller mainsail is available for sailing schools so they can still teach comfortably in 20 knots of wind. It will also be great for lighter sailors so they can also sail in higher winds using the jib as well. The Weta is nicely balanced and sails well under main alone in a good breeze and is a very good sail combination for the single sailor when the wind gets up. A furling jib is also available which allows you to quickly de-power the boat and it has been sailed under main alone in winds up to 56 knots without capsizing.
How does the Weta sail in light winds?
The Weta is an excellent light weather boat. Most Catamarans find it hard to keep pace - especially Cats with deep hulls and no centerboards. The Weta tacks easily in even the lightest of breezes. The new Square Top 9.3 Sq M mainsail provides more speed in light winds and the flat-cut gennaker can double up as a "Code-Zero" genoa - so you can keep moving while everyone else is becalmed. A larger gennaker is available for those who typically sail in winds under 10 knots although it's not allowed in class racing.
Can the Weta be sailed as a high performance boat?
Yes! When the wind is up and the boat is tuned, the Weta is a "rocket ship". Although the boat is simple -- a lot can be learnt about tuning and racing. It is a boat that is fantastic to race and tests even the best sailors. The Weta has been raced, tested and had design input from many experienced sailors including:
Is the mast difficult to put up?
The mast is carbon fiber and weighs 6kg. With the correct simple technique the average person (male and female) can do it by himself or herself with minimal effort. There is also a hinged mast-step available for those that cannot step the mast conventionally.
How much buoyancy is in the floats?
3 adults can safely sit on a float so getting on and off the boat causes no stability problems.
Is it easy to get spare parts?
Your Weta dealer will have a supply of Weta components. Most hardware and ropes are off the shelf items from your local marine dealer.
Why would I choose a Weta over a catamaran or monohull dinghy?
Fun, Fast, Easy - the Weta is the boat everyone can sail at any age and in almost any conditions.
The Weta comes with a 1 year Warranty. For more information please contact your local Weta agent.
Where can I find the website terms and conditions and privacy policy
Click here
Is the Weta a One Design Class?
Yes. The rules for the class allow for some equipment changes that do not enhance performance, but accommodate for personal preferences and enable those with limited mobility to sail the boat safely and without effort.
Where can I find Weta fleets?
In Australia there are established racing fleets in ACT (Canberra), NSW (Sydney, Pittwater, Clarence River, Lake Illawarra), QLD (Bundaberg, Noosa, Brisbane) and VIC (Melbourne). There are also \fleets being established in Western Australia in Perth and in South Australia in Adelaide. Weta Class Regattas, as well as State and National Titles are held around the country.
Weta fleets are established in China, Croatia, France, Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Sweden, UK and USA. Over 1300 boats have been sold worldwide since it was launched in 2009.
Find a Weta near you using the Weta World Map.
Is there an Australian Class Association?
The Australian Weta Class Association Inc was registered in 2017 and has representatives from around the country on the committee. For more information and to join or renew your membership go here. The first national championships will be held in December 2020 at Lake Cootharaba near Noosa - details here.
Where was the Weta designed?
Weta Marine designed the Weta in New Zealand after 6 years development with input from various design experts and it was launched in 2008. It's named after the NZ native Weta insect - a species of giant flightless crickets.
Where is the Weta made?
Initial prototypes and early production boats were built in New Zealand but production was soon switched to China to allow for volume construction. In 2014 production was switched to Australian-run, Xtreme Sailing Products (XSP) based in Singapore - one of the top 3 dinghy manufacturers worldwide, they also make Tasars, 49ers, Optimists, Finns and other boats for world markets.
XSP created a new mould and revised the internal construction of the boat to make them easier and more consistent to manufacture and sail manufacture was switched to North Sails. In 2018 the construction of the main hull and floats was switched to foam-core producing a lighter, stiffer product on the class weight limit of 120 Kgs and North Sails introduced the Square Top 9.3SqM sail as well as revising the entire sail wardrobe to a more modern bi-radial cut.
What is the Weta construction?
The hull, floats and deck are foam sandwich laminate. All components including the float frames are vacuum bagged to get an excellent laminate bond and to eliminate any excess resin. This ensures a fine tolerance on the weight of all boats. Vinylester resin is used for added strength and rigidity. Epoxy glue is used in all hull/frame/beam joins.
The mast, trampoline beams, bowsprit, rudder stock, rudder, daggerboard, tiller and tiller extension are carbon with fiberglass blended in certain areas in some components. The deck gear is mostly top quality Ronstan components with some custom components.
Is there a self-tacking jib available
The self-tacking jib was introduced in 2020 and provides a simple track with mounts which can be bonded to the deck with adhesive. In 2020 the track support was built-in to the Weta deck. The self-tacking jib kit comes with all components apart from the adhesive (Fixtech 15 recommended). The sail is 6% smaller than the standard jib but has a deeper foot. The benefits are you can concentrate on boat handling and steering for smoother, faster tack and gybes - instead of having to try to steer and tack three sails at the same time. More info here.
Are there modifications available for disabled sailors.
There are many Weta sailors who have some mobility issues who manage well with the standard setup - but they may just take more time. However, with the new Self-Tacking Jib and Twin Tiller Extension kits, it’s now even easier to sail – particularly if you have any mobility issues. Details of various modifications are here.
What sailcloth is used?
All sails are manufactured by North Sails (world renown for its high quality sails) and the sails have been redesigned for 2018 with a flatter bi-radial cut and new square top mainsail. The main and jib sails are constructed from X-PLY which is a top of the range Mylar/fiber laminated cloth that is durable and holds its shape well. This transparent cloth gives the skipper high visibility improving safety. The gennaker (screecher) is constructed from Contender Sailcloth Maxlite 150 - a high quality, non-stretch, rip-stop spinnaker cloth that comes in a variety of bright colors.
Can the Weta be used to teach people to sail?
The Weta is an excellent boat to teach sailing in. It has the following advantages:
- Light and responsive on the helm.
- Easy to tack.
- Sailors are on the same boat as the instructor and everyone can learn together.
- Trimarans are extremely stable -- delivering stability at all points of sail and especially in gybes and tacks.
- No boom -- so no one can get hit on the head.
- Wide so you are able to look at the sails and discuss sail shape.
- Minimal sail controls so you focus on the basics.
- Even in high wind there is no drama as the sail area can be reduced so the boat is easily manageable.
How much weight can the Weta take?
With a maximum capacity of 240Kg, the Weta handles 3 adults very well. There is plenty of space but because the power to weight ratio is reduced, the boat will have a reduced performance in light winds. In a bit of breeze the boat is still very lively and in light winds makes for a nice social sail and it's really exciting for two in a blow! It is very safe for young inexperienced sailors.
Can an outboard motor be fitted to the Weta?
Weta Marine recommends using a simple paddle which is a fraction of the price and works well as the boat is lightweight and cuts through the water efficiently. This method has been successfully used to get in and out of the dock. Others have used electric, propane and petrol powered outboard engines which can be very effective for those who have to get through a narrow waterway to get to open water, for example. More info here.
What are the individual weights of the Weta components?
The approximate weight of the main hull is 60kg and each float (including beam frame) is 18kg which is the heaviest component lifted during assembly (but only to insert the float arms into the main hull). The carbon mast is 6Kg and can easily be mounted by one person. An optional hinged mast step is available for anyone who has difficulty stepping the mast.
Can you capsize the Weta?
Yes. Although the Weta is very stable -- like any boat it can be capsized when pushed to the limit in a strong breeze.
How do you right the Weta after a capsize?
"Capsizing is hard ~ righting is easy - even in strong winds and without any outside assistance"
Brute strength and weight is not required, no ropes, no powerboats etc as this only causes damage.
The procedure for righting a capsized Weta;
- When boat is upside down, open the inspection port in the leeward float (ama).
- Get onto the inverted tramp (just below the water level) and sit on the front of the float to allow the air to escape the float.
- Allow the float to completely fill with water. Bouncing on it helps to burp out the air.
- The flooded float will then sink and the Weta becomes horizontal.
- Puts some weight on the daggerboard and the Weta will right itself. As it come up, get onto the centreboard and, before lifting the mast clear of the water, lean into the boat to furl the gennaker and uncleat any sheets.
- Then use your weight on the daggerboard to lift the mast out of the water and climb into the cockpit as it comes upright.
- The flooded float will now be to windward and prevents the boat from capsizing while you get in as the boat comes upright. If you don't get in as it's righting, you can easily get in the boat using the leeward float which is buoyant
- Sail upwind to help the water drain out of the flooded float.
- When the float is drained, lean back to put the inspection port back in place.
Are there options for the arrangement of the mainsheet system?
The Weta mainsheet system comes standard with a cleat in the block. Owners can modify theirs to suit their personal preference. Modifications to date have included ratchet blocks, swivel cleats and bridles. At the 2017 World Masters Games in Auckland, most of the Australian boats had a bridle system created by looping a line around the rear float arms - this allows you to tack without letting go of the tiller. Twin tiller systems are also allowed.
Can the main sail be reefed?
A smaller mainsail is available for sailing schools so they can still teach comfortably in 20 knots of wind. It will also be great for lighter sailors so they can also sail in higher winds using the jib as well. The Weta is nicely balanced and sails well under main alone in a good breeze and is a very good sail combination for the single sailor when the wind gets up. A furling jib is also available which allows you to quickly de-power the boat and it has been sailed under main alone in winds up to 56 knots without capsizing.
How does the Weta sail in light winds?
The Weta is an excellent light weather boat. Most Catamarans find it hard to keep pace - especially Cats with deep hulls and no centerboards. The Weta tacks easily in even the lightest of breezes. The new Square Top 9.3 Sq M mainsail provides more speed in light winds and the flat-cut gennaker can double up as a "Code-Zero" genoa - so you can keep moving while everyone else is becalmed. A larger gennaker is available for those who typically sail in winds under 10 knots although it's not allowed in class racing.
Can the Weta be sailed as a high performance boat?
Yes! When the wind is up and the boat is tuned, the Weta is a "rocket ship". Although the boat is simple -- a lot can be learnt about tuning and racing. It is a boat that is fantastic to race and tests even the best sailors. The Weta has been raced, tested and had design input from many experienced sailors including:
- America's Cup Skippers
- Olympic Medallists
- World Sailing Champions
- Paralympic Sailors
Is the mast difficult to put up?
The mast is carbon fiber and weighs 6kg. With the correct simple technique the average person (male and female) can do it by himself or herself with minimal effort. There is also a hinged mast-step available for those that cannot step the mast conventionally.
How much buoyancy is in the floats?
3 adults can safely sit on a float so getting on and off the boat causes no stability problems.
Is it easy to get spare parts?
Your Weta dealer will have a supply of Weta components. Most hardware and ropes are off the shelf items from your local marine dealer.
Why would I choose a Weta over a catamaran or monohull dinghy?
Fun, Fast, Easy - the Weta is the boat everyone can sail at any age and in almost any conditions.
- Safety
Unlike a catamaran or monohull, a Weta is much less likely to go over and if it does, it’s much easier to right than a catamaran (e.g. Hobie 16) or monohull (e.g. Laser), It is much more forgiving than any beach cat and there is plenty of warning.
If the leeward float is underwater and you're not shifting your weight, easing or turning down, that's not really the boat's fault. You can put a couple of kids on it and not have to worry about some death and destruction scenario. There's no risk of a death-roll or boom to take your head off either.
The Weta has been approved for Paralympic sailing and 2 para sailors were in the top 20 at the World Masters Games. - Capsize Recovery
If you ignore the warnings and capsize in deep water, it takes less than 3 minutes to right and get going again, even in 35 knot winds. After righting, the flooded ama self bails and will drain in under a minute.
If you stick the mast in the mud, it takes longer and requires a different technique, but still only takes about 5 minutes.
If you stick the mast into a rock covered bottom, too bad, you're going to buy a new top mast. Try any of the above with an A-Cat and see how you like shelling out $5K for new mast. - Flexibility
Unlike a typical 2-person catamaran, a Weta can be sailed single-handed, with children or with other adults. It can also be solo sailed in just about any wind range and sea state. We've raced in 35kts+ with full sails (jib, main, screecher) and it's an absolute blast. Not conditions for a beginner, but an experienced sailor would not have a problem.
You never had a day where, in the back of your mind, you're thinking, "I really wish I was at the dock right now." If you can handle a Laser in 15kts, you won't hesitate take out the Weta when it's blowing 25kts. If the wind is over 40 knots just remove the jib. One senior Weta sailor in his 70s who sails in Scotland was caught in a 52 knot squall and (with the optional furling jib furled) his Weta was the only boat not to capsize in the fleet. - Light winds aren't that much fun in most boats but the Weta has a trick up it's sleeve – you can use the flat-cut screecher as a "Code Zero" allowing you to still make progress while other boats are stationary.
- Storage
A Weta requires only 4x2M to store – roughly the space of a Laser. Really useful in a crowded boat park or shared garage. - Technology
The Weta is a recent design launched in 2009 and uses modern materials and construction methods. It's lighter (only 120Kg fully rigged) than most rotomoulded catamarans and has a rigid carbon platform which maximises performance. Unlike a Hobie 16, it doesn't need to be glued together to make it stiff.
Every piece of the boat can be easily handled by a single, normal strength person. The mast is a carbon 2-piece unit that is easy to step - no tools, no pivots, nothing. Just pick it up and slap it on. - Comfort
You can sail the Weta for hours (like 8 hours) without getting tired. The physical demands are so low that you don't come back to the dock completely exhausted. A Weta has completed the 300 mile Everglades Challenge twice sailed solo by a petite female sailor, Linda Wright.
Hiking on the boat is really just sitting on the weather ama. Unlike a Laser, there's very little strain on your back or abs. It looks like you're working but you're not. If you adjust the (optional) harness correctly, it provides excellent back support while hiking - and if you're taking it easy, you can always lie back on the trampoline. - Performance
For its size, especially when sailed single-handed, the Weta offers much more useable and exciting (but not scary) performance in any wind condition compared with a catamaran, which can only be used by experts above 23 knots, or a monohull in strong winds which will capsize often unless you're very experienced. But like a monohull, the Weta is easy to manoeuvre. It turns in it's own wake, it backs easily, and it stops on a dime, so getting in and out of tight places won't scare you and pre-race jockeying is a blast. - Launching time
Stow to go in 20 minutes: It's incredibly easy to rig. With practice, it takes less than 20 minutes to rig the boat. That means ready-to-sail with jib, main, and screecher hoisted and blades on. It takes longer to put on your wetsuit/pfd/safety gear. - Growth & Support
From an initial launch in 2009 there are now over 1300 boats worldwide. In 2019, there were 13 Wetas at the NSW State Titles, 16 at the VIC State Titles and 17 at the the QLD state titles. In 2020 there were 27 boats registered for the Australian Nationals. There were 52 boats at the World Masters Championships in Auckland in April 2017 and there have been discussions to hold an ANZAC regatta. - Focus
Weta only make sailboats and that is their primary focus. A revised boat with a new mold was introduced for 2015 when manufacturing was moved to Singapore. Weta have a policy of gradual improvement to keep the boat up-to-date with the latest trends and technology. Recent modifications include the Square Top Mainsail, Self-Tacking Jib Kit and Twin Tiller Extension Kit. - Reliability and Investment Potential
Second hand Wetas are rare on the market and have held their value. The boat is rugged as hell. Fibreglass can easily be repaired and the Mylar sails are easy to care for and long lasting, keeping their shape. - Summary
A Weta isn't a Porsche, it's a Mazda MX5. It's a lot of bang for the buck, and more importantly, it's a boat you can always sail, regardless of the conditions, and still have fun.
The Weta comes with a 1 year Warranty. For more information please contact your local Weta agent.
Where can I find the website terms and conditions and privacy policy
Click here