C16.5 float
We just sold our C16.5 (yesterday!) as we upgraded to Catalina Capri 22 and I can't afford 2 boat payments . . . got lots of info for you and a yahoo group you should join . . .
First, there are float panels specifically made for the C16.5. I believe you can get them from catalina for around $80 or $100. You may have to go through your local dealer. They basically attach to the top of the sail somehow. Alternatives include tying an empty gallon jug to the top of the mast, a hobie cat float, or stuffing pool noodles down your mast. We did the latter, though we never actually capsized the boat so I don't know if they work or not. There are posts about all of the above on the Catalina 16.5 Yahoo Group.
Second, you said you couldn't get the sheet uncleated before you went over? Main or jib and what was it cleated to? You should have a quick release cam cleat on the barney post for the main and that sheet should *never* leave your hand. That being said, I took a 20+ mph gust once and we had to let both the main and jib fly. We went right to the point where the boat was going over even though I'd let the main run - finally my crew was able to free the jib but it took several upward yanks to get it out of the cam cleat. I'd like to see that arrangement changed but I'm not sure how I'd do it and still have the ability to move things on the track. BTW, I strongly recommend black magic sailing gloves . . . mine have saved me from severe rope burns on both boats this year.
Let's see - what to do when the boat *does* go over. First, make sure you & your crew agree ahead of time who's going to do what. You should both try to avoid landing in the main sail if at all possible. One of you should try to go over the high side of the boat (if you can) and get on the centerboard asap. If you're really good you can climb over and not even get wet (I'm not that good at all) The other person should head for the end of the mast in a hurry. Their job is to hold it up so it doesn't turtle. Also, don't forget that before you flip the boat up the sheets need to be released so it doesn't go right over the other way or sail off without you.
You might also want to add a ladder or folding step to the transom. We tried the step first, just above the water mark near the rudder. Worked for me, not for my wife. We then added a 2 step ladder - worked for me, jury is out on my wife who got the giggles the one time she tried to use it. I ended up towing her to the beach and she climbed in from the dock.
Oh yeah, if you don't have them, send your main off to Ullman Sails this winter and have them put in reefing points. I did that last year, it cost less than $150, and it was worth every penny. I put in jiffy reefing and it made a world of difference on strong wind/gusty days.
Hope this helps,
Chris
FKTR Catalina Capri #893 - Verboten