How much sail? Different Wind Conditions
Posted: Mon Feb 13, 2017 5:39 am
I was on the boat over the weekend to enjoy some unusually warm (upper 70's) NC February days. The wind really picked up Sunday and I struggled to find the right balance of sail area.
Winds began to build to 10-15mph or more and were probably gusting to 25 or more. That was what the local weather station recorded, so it was likely a little more over the water.
I started with full main and 130 jib, and I then went to a reefed main and 130 jib. There were times that I could not keep the boat from rounding up in the gusts. She would heel like crazy, the weather helm would become very apparent, and then she would round up. I didn't feel in control.
Eventually I took down the jib and just sailed under a reefed main. It was much more comfortable.
So.... what to you fly for certain wind strengths? When do you reef? Should I just not bother with a head sail when it is approaching the 20's? Should I look into getting a smaller jib? Any advice or comments are appreciated.
Winds began to build to 10-15mph or more and were probably gusting to 25 or more. That was what the local weather station recorded, so it was likely a little more over the water.
I started with full main and 130 jib, and I then went to a reefed main and 130 jib. There were times that I could not keep the boat from rounding up in the gusts. She would heel like crazy, the weather helm would become very apparent, and then she would round up. I didn't feel in control.
Eventually I took down the jib and just sailed under a reefed main. It was much more comfortable.
So.... what to you fly for certain wind strengths? When do you reef? Should I just not bother with a head sail when it is approaching the 20's? Should I look into getting a smaller jib? Any advice or comments are appreciated.