A dinghy is a small boat, usually designed to carry just a few people. Dinghies can be rowed with oars, paddled, or equipped with a small sail or motor. The word rhymes with “stingy.”

You'll often see dinghies tied to larger boats, serving as a way to get from a big sailboat or yacht to shore when the larger vessel is anchored offshore. Think of it like a lifeboat, but used for everyday trips rather than emergencies. Dinghies are also popular for learning to sail because they're small enough to handle easily and respond quickly to the wind.

Some dinghies are rigid boats made of wood, fiberglass, or metal, while others are inflatable, made of tough rubber that can be deflated and stored when not in use. Inflatable dinghies are especially useful because they don't take up much space and are difficult to sink.

Whether you're rowing across a calm lake, sailing in a harbor, or shuttling between a big boat and the beach, a dinghy is the perfect size for short trips on the water.