Standing on the beach today watching a boat

[GeorgiaBII]

Was standing on the beach of honeymoon island on the gulf today. Radar showed a storm moving in and the wind was really blowing! I'm guessing at about thirty knots. About a mile out was a sailboat with a heavily fulered jib moving toward port at a good pace.

All I could think of was there is no way I'd be comfortable in the ocean in weather like that.

Guess I'm a lake sailor at heart right now. But I sure wish I could be out there before I head inland again.

Maybe one day I'll develop the skills. Looked like a great ride on that boat today.

James

 

[RECESS]

It depends on the boat. Our Person is 13,000ish lbs. It handles well in 25 to 30 knot weather. Also depends on the point of sail. It would be not so fun in a lighter sailboat.

 

[Kestle]

Light sailboat, too much sail up, solo/undermanned, booz, that's all ugly...in big air.

I bought two thermos's today; one for coffee, one for dinner for just those occasions. Google ideas on using a thermos for long slow cooking.

Jeff

 

[GeorgiaBII]

Looked like a small boat less than thirty feet for sure. Probably in the mid twenties but was hard to tell. They'd already stowed the main away when I noticed it.

 

[sailormanbigd]

depends on skill level

if very familiar with your boat in all weather than why not. I used to take out my 22 southcoast in "small craft adviseries and had a blast. The risk is greater but the fun factor is greater as well. When I was delivering my 33 Morgan outisland an unexpected blow kicked up and the boat came alive. Blowing 30kn and the bow was plunging over the crests into the troughs and I loved it! Another time with the southcoast i had to drop anchor due to the jib sheets wipping themselves into a horrible twisted mess from strong winds.

 

[Anonymous 121765]

G,

This is in my area of sailing & if you felt yesterday's weather was spirited, just wait until the summer thunderheads, come in.

On the plus side, this is the type of weather that can improve your sailing skills. Conditions can change quickly & for added thrills in our area, we add waves, winds that may range from 20 to 35+kts, blinding rain, lightning & the occasional water spout. Maybe even a tropical storm or two. Hopefully, every summer we try to never have to use the word hurricane.

On the serious side though, sailing in rough/changing weather conditions can/will make you a better all-round sailor. The secret is being able to balance your boat for the conditions. You'd be surprise of what a sailboat can do when set properly. This is also a good way to get to know yourself & your boat's strengths and/or limitations. It can be a great invigorating experience.

Here on the left coast, we are blessed with year-round sailing. When I read the winter posts of my SBO mates up north stranded until spring, I feel for the guys biting at the bit to sail. Now spring is finally here mates, get out & enjoy it.

CR

 

[slaume]

It's not the wind but the waves that cause problems.

I have been out in some very strong winds near the coast and off shore. I have a great boat and have complete confidence in her strength and handling abilities. It comes down to a matter of how much you are willing to endure rather than what the boat can handle. I think the worst I have been through, has been in Buzzards Bay, Mass. Off shore waves can be huge but not as bad as steep and chaotic chop.

The most dangerous part of sailing in stormy conditions is the possibility of falling overboard. The boat will be fine but not much good to you if you are not on board.

I gained confidence in my abilities by sailing in increasingly stronger winds and bigger seas. So far so good, Steve.