<< ...questions...how does the p 18/19 sail with the dagger board half way
down[if you're trying to get through a very shallow area]...and has any one
considered building a shoal draft fixed rudder similar to those put on cat
boats and sharpies...i.e...a larger rudder[some call it a barn darn] with a
wing or plate on the bottom of the rudder[ i.e...horizontal to the
rudder]...plate/wing improves bite despite shallow rudder...please...is it
possible to have a bit of dialogue about techniques for sailing in let's say
2' of water...and as well options on rethinking the rudder...look forward to
much conversation...k >>
k,
I think half of the daggerboard would provide enough lateral
resistance to sail (though I'm sure your leeway would increase
significantly), but I would be conserned afout sloshing water in thourgh the
top of the trunk, also your balance will be shifted upward a lot making it
much more possible to capsize. Sailing like this for a short distance over a
shoal area would be practical, but for a long distance .... I wouldn't do it.
Find deeper waters to sail in or go under power alone.
The idea of a barn door rudder, or more horizontal area is something I've
contemplated, a few considerations: it would be easier to use the rudder to
scull the boat forward a little by 'flapping' the rudder back and forth, it
would become more vulnerable to propeller damage from the motor, it might
require a skeg, it might take significantly more arm muscle when on a broad
reach.
Ralph Aeschliman
HMS-18 #67 Moby Duck
Flagstaff, AZ