Lines aft! I think?!

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Troy Baker

Do any of you lead aft?? If so please post some info, Is it the thing to do if often sailing alone? Thanks, Troy Baker
 
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Bayard Gross

Depends on whom you ask

On my C-22 ('82 swing keel), which I sail nearly 99% alone I lead aft: my main halyard, a main down haul (to get the main down that last foot or so before putting on sail ties), and main tack reefing line. I also have a furling jib and a boom kicker which due to its expense may not really be a good choice for everyone except that it does prevent you from accidentally stretching the leach of the main as would occur when you fail to secure the topping lift. I also lead the main sheet forward to a swivel block and cam cleat mounted on the forward cockpit side just aft of the keel cable winch. Is all this necessary? Perhaps not. However, for myself there are just too many uncomfortable situations in the area where I sail which make all these alterations highly prized. There are C-22 owners who eschew these items and I think rightfully so. I think the best answer is to determine for yourself and the areas in which you sail just what alterations, if any, you need to perform and as time and money permit. Quite simply, I think it is safe to say there is considerable difference between the expectations of sailing in a lake versus sailing in the ocean, even if just somewhat offshore. Nevertheless, in my opinion, leading lines aft is more important for getting sails down than for raising them. If conditions are bad to begin with, you may not wish to go out single-handed. However, if you are by yourself and are caught in a sudden blow, you will be much happier being able to secure everything as quickly as possible.
 
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David

Lines Aft

I am not new to sailing but new to sailing my Catalina 22. Already, I have been caught in a sudden blow both alone and with my crew. In West Texas, it can go from calm and peaceful to blowing like "stink" with gust that can "knock your socks off" in a few seconds. In both instances I managed to save my boat and get in to the docks to reef and get the jib down. When I had my crew aboard, I was afraid to send her forward to lower the jib. One time I was out with a friend on a 25, when one of these storms blew in on us with 75 mph winds and hail, tornadic conditions. I crawled on the deck wrapped my arm around the base of the mast, loosened the jib, and dropped it overboard; fortunately, this storm blew through in 10 to 15 minutes. Now, I think lines aft would be a great asset, especially sailing alone. I think that the first thing that I invest in is going to be roller furling. One can handle a C-22 with the main up, but that darn genoa will beat you up. On my Hobie, I just go faster when the wind blows...lol David
 
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Dan

Of course

Lead the lines aft. My halyards are within reach of the helmsman, as are all the sheets. No need for complicated fairleads; just lead them back there and lay them in the cockpit. Cam cleats are great, line clutches better. If you're a neatness freak, coil them. Believe it or not, they rarely tangle. The biggest problem is someone standing on the lazy sheet while you pull your shoulder out of socket! Ha-ha! Also, a good tiller extension can give you more freedom to move forward when needed without having to leave the helm unattended.
 
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