maybe new owner. Advice appreciated

[Gulfisland Fred]

I am looking at a Sirius 21, as part of a trade for my larger boat. I owned an Aquarius 23 for several years. It was a good boat, and I enjoyed it. The Aquarius Owners Forum was a great resource and a great community.

I'm ready to go back to a trailer sailor, and the Sirius looks like a good choice.
Are there particular things to look at on a Sirius 21? Lifeline stanchions? Soft spots in the deck? Centreboard issues? Pivot pin? Cable? Rudder?
Thanks!
Fred
Gabriola Island, BC, Canada

 

[Kensuds]

I searched the net high and low for mention of reliability issues or problem areas to my purchase of a Sirius 21 2 years ago. Didn't find anything of note. Deck is foam cored so no rot issues. I replaced companion way hatches and all interior wood for a newer brighter look (took one 4x8 sheet of ply). All in all I'm very pleased with the boat.

 

[Gulfisland Fred]

Thanks! I didn't realize that the deck is foam cored. A pleasant surprise.
It looks like I will be the new owner, as part trade on my Islander 30. I hope it's OK to ask you some questions as I get acquainted with the boat?

How do you raise your mast? How many people does it take to do it?
Do you lock the centreboard down somehow, or does gravity do the job?
Have you sailed much on jib alone? How does she handle?