New to sailing

[eMKay]

Originally Posted by Buccaroo

Sailing under the jib alone, as is sometimes done in keelboats, usually results in loss of helm control in a dinghy

Yeah, I found this out the hard way when I was learning last year. I was "motoring" (electric trolling motor) back to the dock, I got stuck in some weeds and decided I needed to unfurl the jib to get unstuck since the motor was useless, since it was easier than raising the main, which was already dropped, and the boom unhooked and in the cabin. All I did was spin around in circles, I had to furl the jib, get the boom out, unroll and raise the main, and then I could finally free myself. At that point I decided to try and sail to the dock, and almost made it It was into the wind and I missed by 3 feet or so, had to drop the motor, so as to not look like an idiot in front of all the PWC's. I was using their launch since it was just 2 docks and a wide open bay.

[Leland]

A Local! congratulations on the boat! sounds like you are getting some good experience. I live in Atascadero and bought a oday 23 last summer. I am always looking for people to go out with. give me a call 8056740922. good luck.

Leland

[cnc33voodoo]

Originally Posted by poltergeist

You got a lot of good feedback, and here's one other thought.

I note that the C15 has a daysailing rig of 123 sq. ft. and a performance rig of 139. If you have the latter, sailing solo in 10 to 15, you probably had your hands full, and the additional challenge of tacking with a larger overlapping jib would have added to the complexity.

Try sailing in conditions under 10 with just the main and adjusting the centerboard to balance the helm. As you get comfortable, add the jib, or add a crew to manage the jib for you.

Have fun ... looks like a great boat to learn on.

Kurt

took the words out of my mouth.too many things going on at once can make it harder to get a feel for the boat.
p.s. dont sail further than you can swim when learning.

[maggie2]

Practice and study. Sail with some experienced crew and ask lots of questions.