Level of Heel
Victor, The level of heel should be very manageable on the C-30, as it's a fairly stiff boat. With around 30 knots on the nose, a reefed main and about 75% of jib in 8' seas across the beam I had about 15 to 20 degrees of heel. I had consistent speed of around 6.5 knots (just under hull speed). Occasionally I'd bury the rail briefly if a wave hit just right, but that only happened once or twice. It was a tough 7 hour sail, but very exhilarating. At no time did I feel like I wasn't in control of the boat. I had an almost neutral helm because the sails were balanced, and she handled the conditions like a champ. That being said, I've seen boats with improper sail trim round up in 15 knots of wind and have difficulty keeping a course. The "still control her" part of your question has more to do with your sail trimming skills than it does with the fact that you're on a C-30. Assuming your sails are properly set, you shouldn't have anything to worry about. I hope this helps! Allen Schweitzer s/v Falstaff C-30 Hull# 632
