Sea anchors for cruisers...yea or nay

[Dave Jolly]

I will, before too long, be "by the water" (FL) and am strongly considering an Oday 25 for my first boat. In the research process, I came across many discussions of sea anchors (including a very interesting USCG study). I'm curious about their use on smaller sailing boats that occasionally venture away from the coast. (which I won't be trying for some time...)Any experiences, thoughts and/or musings are appreciated as I "gather data"...Thanks,Dave

 

[Griffin]

Pray you never need one...

But they are great to have when you do.I don't know your cruising grounds, but if you are planning on going cruising off-shore anywhere, I wouldn't be without one. That nice wind pushed ahead of a mild cold front could turn into a full norther in a matter of an hour or so. I have only needed one once, and I didn't have it. I say it is worth the peace of mind.