|
After getting the boat under sail, apply windward heel to turn the boat down wind with the boom fully extended. Not much heel is required to turn the boat and the weight is generally closer to the centerline of the boat.This is the tack which allows enough freedom of movement to install the rudder for docking. During gusty conditions, a heeling oscillation may develop which if unchecked will lead to a capsize. A good way to prevent this type of capsize is to raise the centerboard 75% in gusty or high wind conditions on downwind tacks. It is important to anticipate where to place weight so as to dampen the heeling oscillations. The boat may be slowed by turning more upwind (to a broad or beam reach) and depowering the sail. Slowing the boat or raising the centerboard will lessen the responsiveness to heeling and make the rocking oscillations more managable.
Sailing downwind allows hands free sailing as the boom is fully extended and the control of the main sheet is not needed. Directional control is by weight position relative to the boat centerline. The main sheet line can be looped around the forward cleat so the line does not drag in the water. As mentioned above, heading more towards a beam reach will slow the boat down. If the proper approach tack is selected, a hands free docking can be achieved.
Back to Home Page
Copyright Phil Rossoni 9/1/2004
|
|
