[dquack]

regarding tethers and harnesses (Beating a dead horse?):

I was speaking about how to set up a boat. When you use your Safety gear is a matter of personal choice. In the past year I sailed a lot, in all kinds of conditions (Bay, Coastal, Atlantic) and I never even used my harness once. The conditions didn't seem to warrant it. I believe in setting up your boat properly so that if you need safety equipment you have it to use.
I use the gear that I need when I need it. To me its all the same category as my first aid kit. I take it out when I need it, but mist of the time it is in a locker.

I sail singlehanded almost exclusively when on long trips. I love the freedom and the fact that I create the rules (not some insurance company or hand wringer afraid of their own shadow). When it gets rough enough I use the equipment necessary to assure my safety.

I just make sure that equipment is aboard and properly prepared. Thats good seamanship isn't it?

To each his own. Freedom is what sailing is all about-

"A hull and a deck and sails-thats what a boat needs. But what a boat is, what the Black Pearl really is, is freedom." Captn Jack

Don