Had some good input from the forum considering our H240 for a cruising chute but the thread hit the can before I could make the move. Have done the legwork and rigged it appropriately so in respect of all who shared and those who need to see it done elsewhere before they would do it themselves here’s the skinny. The boat's got a reputation (deserved or not) of being tender but it also has more potential than people give it credit for. The downwind performance was lacking so I went and took the plunge and got a nice asym cruising sail (24'x22'x15') and couldn't be happier. It sails very well, adds significant speed in lighter broad reaches and looks great. No, I wouldn't expect to hoist it in a blow but that’s not what it’s for. It’s actually pretty easy to single hand because it not too enormous and I’ve got a system of expectations in place. #1 I rig appropriately and plan for problems, so I’m prepared
#2 Know the boats (and your own) limits. #3 douse it early. With the dousing sock and tiller pilot I can clip on the tack and sheets and hoist it while I’m safely clipped in with my harness. Lastly going forward briefly to pull up the sock after it’s comfortably covered by the main. Practice cures many doubts and identifies trim settings while we get used to each other but the boat, cruising chute and I are getting along better all the time. The downwind speed is right on and the boat sails to its potential consistently. Thanks for all the input from fellow sailors with more know-how. If anyone needs details for their attempt I have first hand experience, let it fly. Aloha, Michael
#2 Know the boats (and your own) limits. #3 douse it early. With the dousing sock and tiller pilot I can clip on the tack and sheets and hoist it while I’m safely clipped in with my harness. Lastly going forward briefly to pull up the sock after it’s comfortably covered by the main. Practice cures many doubts and identifies trim settings while we get used to each other but the boat, cruising chute and I are getting along better all the time. The downwind speed is right on and the boat sails to its potential consistently. Thanks for all the input from fellow sailors with more know-how. If anyone needs details for their attempt I have first hand experience, let it fly. Aloha, Michael
