Ideal Weather

[Bob S]

I am new to the sailing community. I am awaiting a sea trial on a 1995 C30 MKIII. The winds have been blowing 10-15 mph with gust to 30. Seas are 2-4 ft. I know I won't be taking out my wife unless it's ideal. She's never sailed and is hesitant. I sailed with my dad years ago on a 39 Gulfstar. I know the C30 isn't going to handle what the Gulfsar did. What are the best conditions and when would you draw the line?

 

[Peter18012]

Perfect conditions

never occur. But if you're new to the boat, and comparatively new to sailing, and the Admiral has never been sailing, you're gonna want a day that boat will move OK, but won't "tilt", and you won't get thrown around. Probably 8-12 knots of constant wind, no more, and seas 2 feet or less. And avoid gusty wind conditions. And, within reason, the period of the seas (time between crests) is more important from a comfort's sake than the heighth. 2ft. seas at 10 seconds is very comfortable. 4ft. at 6 seconds means you're going to go through them, not over them, with consequently take lots of water aboard, and put stress on yourselves and the boat.I'd say 10-15, gusts to 30 with 4 foot seas (no matter their period), for newbies would be conditions to avoid.

 

[sailacat34]

Patients

Ideal conditions are calm waters, 2ft. or less , and calm winds, 10 kts or less especially with a new boat and a wife who has never sailed. Try really early in the morning. Dont worry about putting the boat through it's paces right now. As you know we get a lot of great sailing conditions here on the east coast and it is more important not to create buyer remores. Don't forget you have to go through the winter with your wife who you want to make certain that she will want to get back on the boat in the spring. And don't forget you will most likely want radar for Christmas sooo, keep her happy..lol It is a touchy subject that I certainly understand well. You are purchasing a GREAT first boat capable of so much more then the captains who sail them. When my wife and I bought our first sailboat we did a lot of motoring just so she felt comfortable moving around the boat and "settling" in. Now we own a Catalina 34 MKII and sail in all types of conditions. Don't rush it... Lets walk before we run...... it's makes for a better relationship between spouces and boats.... Good Luck and more important ENJOY!!

 

[Pat]

About 10 knots constant is great sailing

for me. Like others say- stay away from the heavy stuff to start out with, especially with the wife. But I also think its a good idea to make the first outing a sailing trip too. Nothing like getting that boat going under sail - not having to motor. After all, it is what sets us apart. So make it memorable. And don't worry about later on. I had my previous boat (Catalina 30, circa 1986) out in 10 footers a few times. Great boat. Good luck.