I've owned a DS3 since 1986 and have enjoyed it a lot. We also sail on the Chesapeake, and have only been close to a knockdown once -- also on a day we just shouldn't have gone out. I should probably replace the centerboard
lines; They're still original. I've replaced all the other
lines, but the standing
rigging is still original too. Very forgiving boat, with a cockpit big enough for four. If I could change one thing, it'd be to make it a little easier to furl the sails when the wind gets much above 15 kts. But anywhere between 10-15 kts, and it's a whole lot of fun!