First, let me say how much we have enjoyed our 356. I agree with Jim, above, that it has been an ideal boat for us for day sailing and some longer cruising. Even overnights at the slip are fun in this boat.
I see you've already provided some thoughts on improving upwind performance in the earlier post on traveler position, but if you have any additional tips or tips specific to the 356, I'd appreciate them, and in particular as to the shoal keel model. Also, we have the full main, rather than furling main.
In particular, is there an optimal or maximum angle of heel, in your view. I assume that one goal in modifying twist as you've explained is to keep the boat on her feet. What's that mean in terms of heel? I know all this, and still I find myself going back and forth between pointing high and slipping what seems like 10 or 15 degrees to leeward, and footing off but seemingly still at the same vmg. What's your thought on the angle between tacks: probably closer to 100 degrees than 90 in most conditions, is my guess.
I will say that when this boat is slipping through flat water with a moderate breeze, it's a thrill beyond words. Speeding off in a blow with a double reef, or heading down with the asym is pretty darn nice, too. A lot of people have complimented this boat. You should be proud of the design.
--paul
I see you've already provided some thoughts on improving upwind performance in the earlier post on traveler position, but if you have any additional tips or tips specific to the 356, I'd appreciate them, and in particular as to the shoal keel model. Also, we have the full main, rather than furling main.
In particular, is there an optimal or maximum angle of heel, in your view. I assume that one goal in modifying twist as you've explained is to keep the boat on her feet. What's that mean in terms of heel? I know all this, and still I find myself going back and forth between pointing high and slipping what seems like 10 or 15 degrees to leeward, and footing off but seemingly still at the same vmg. What's your thought on the angle between tacks: probably closer to 100 degrees than 90 in most conditions, is my guess.
I will say that when this boat is slipping through flat water with a moderate breeze, it's a thrill beyond words. Speeding off in a blow with a double reef, or heading down with the asym is pretty darn nice, too. A lot of people have complimented this boat. You should be proud of the design.
--paul