[Rhodes22-list] Cockpit Waterproofing response to Rick

[Rick]

Jay,

I mostly sail on Lake Erie so I know the unpredictable nature of Great
Lakes weather.  Carry a sea anchor in case you get caught having to run in
heavy seas.

The 175 genny is an all purpose sail that can be furled to any size.  If
you are experiencing overpowering of your ring, you can also furl the
main.  The boom can also be lowered to reduce heel.  With practice, you
should get to the point where you sail the boat balanced with neutral helm
single handed or loaded with crew/guests in all conditions.

Tacking the 175 genny is a common complaint from those unaccustomed to
handling a large foresail.  Going into a tack, simply hold the loaded sheet
until the bow crosses the wind, backwinding the genny.  Then release the
sheet and the wind will carry the sail effortlessly across the bow into the
new tack position.  Backwinding the foresail also compensates for the
resistance of the flared bow to tacking.

As others have suggested, modifying the boat to sail in conditions it was
not designed to handle is unwise.  If you seek blue water sailing, get a
blue water boat.

Rick