[wrevans]

Jeff & Mike,

Thanks for the very detailed and thoughtful replies. Ah the consciences of chasing beautiful women. It is very helpful to have a feeling of what to expect next spring when I sail her for the first time. I appreciate the warnings of potential swamping and sinking and your advice makes sense as the Bluenose has a huge cockpit and rather small drains. I will keep the drop board in place and be careful.

Jeff, what do you consider and adequate sail plane for light air performance? In reading you previous posts I received the impression that you favored fractional rigs. The Bluenose carries about 216 square feet of sail area with the blade working jib and 253 square feet with the Genoa. This on a displacement of 2,050 lbs including 900 pounds of ballast. This translates to an SA/D of 21 & 25 respectively. Are you saying that for its type (modified full keel) its sail are is not adequate for light air?

I have sailed on other peoples boats on and off for many years and I am looking forward to finally having a boat of my own. So right or wrong this old gal will be my teacher. I am a bit anxious but at the same time excited and giddy.

Thanks,

Bill