Over the years, Dotan’s rudder systems have garnered recognition and high praise from sailors and professionals worldwide.
Having sailed Shearwater catamarans for many years, the choice of rudders has always been a difficult one, particularly in trying to obtain a balance between efficiency, ease of operation, durability, and weight. I am pleased to say that, having fitted Dotan rudders to my latest Shearwater ‘Alley Cat,’ the decision to do so was absolutely right. The design, construction, and ease of operation are superb, and I have no hesitation in recommending them for use on any catamaran.
I have two boats with your rudder — they’re doing a great job
“We’re using the Dotan 20 rudder on our new fiberglass Starling. We’ve had excellent feedback from all skippers who report that the rudder blade is a joy to use. The Starling is New Zealand’s most popular class for 50–70 kg sailors. They love the well-made, adjustable stock and the ease of lift-operation with the tiller, especially as we often have rough conditions for launching and retrieving boats.”
The Zzap is a two-person, high-performance skiff-style dinghy, designed for post-Optimist sailors. The Zzap has been using the Dotan 20 rudder box as standard since June 1999. It is an excellent product, beautifully engineered, simple and easy to use, and we feel that it really does add value to our boat.
We tested the Dotan rudder in the Mediterranean Sea off Kibbutz Sdot-Yam over a 9-month period under varying weather conditions. The rudder performed excellently in all weather conditions. It also performs very well during races. Its engineered composite materials prolong its lifespan. Moreover, the Dotan rudder is cheaper in the long term than any other alternative rudder. It’s much easier to launch and retrieve due to its reliable kick-up mechanism. No strings, springs, or brackets that deteriorate over time. The mechanism is simple and durable. I consider this rudder a high-tech product and would like to see it in widespread use
I have been using the Dotan kick-up rudder on my Classic Moth for several months now. The build quality is exceptional, and the mechanism operates flawlessly without the need for ropes or bungee cords. Source
Optimized Rudder for the Optimist Class Our engineers have designed a rudder specifically for promising racers in the Optimist class. The unique construction of this rudder will help future champions achieve outstanding results faster. Advanced Manufacturing Technology The rudder is produced using advanced technology that combines high pressure with thermal shock. This method significantly increases the compression of the fiberglass laminate compared to traditional vacuum molding techniques. Key Benefits of High Compression: Layers Form a Monolithic Structure: The fibers of each layer bond seamlessly with the adjacent layer, creating a uniform material without weak points. Improved Strength, Rigidity, and Durability: The rudder demonstrates exceptional resistance to loads and wear. Enhanced Resilience: Its ability to quickly return to its original shape after stress ensures superior flexibility, especially critical when tacking in waves. Included Components The set includes a rudder and rudder fittings, ensuring full readiness for installation and use. Ideal Profile and Hydrodynamics A smooth, high-quality surface finish on the rudder reduces water resistance, increasing speed. The cross-section of the rudder is based on the NACA 0009 hydrodynamic profile, ensuring superior stability and maneuverability. Compliance with International Standards The rudder is fully compliant with the latest IODA rules, ensuring its suitability for international regattas.
