Re: Seaworthiness of the 19

HandyM2@aol.com
Sun, 20 Dec 1998 12:36:01 EST


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West Wight Potter Website at URL
http://www.lesbois.com/wwpotter/
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Hello and welcome to the Potter list. I'd adress you by name but you have no
profile.

<< Does anyone have any thoughts on how seaworthy a 19 is? I'm considering
buying a 19 but I live in southern Oregon and the seas are pretty rough which
makes me hesitate. I plan on using it almost exclusively for coastal sailing
and don't have plans to use it for lakes, etc. I would appreciate any
comments.
>>

Well a Sailboat or any other boat is as limited by the sailor as much as the
Design. As a design the P19 is quite a sturdy boat with a modest Sail Plan
and a tendency to be easy to handle. There are the factors of positive
flotation and such but again I used to live in Reedsport OR so any boat the
sailor places on those rocks is TOAST.

Would I use it in your area? YES. However I'd take the time to get some
serious sailing lessions from locals as to learn the wind/sea patterns there
as well as general weather knowledge. Also I'd invest in a GOOD Quality
Outboard (don't Laugh List, Michael of the trolling motor is advocating a Big
O/B <G>) of the 5-9 HP range.

Also an investment in a good GPS and lessons on how to use it with sea charts
is highly recommended as that area is known for sudden fogs...

As with any boat all recommended US Coast Guard Safety equipment is
recommended. I personally like a sailing harness for all in the cockpit as so
I don't have to luff and come about in a Man overboard maneuver. A VHS radio
is also useful. Some swear by a Cell Phone as more useful. SIGH....

So all in all, Yes, I'd sail my P19 Traveller in your area. May get to next
summer with any luck.

Peace to you and yours this Holiday Season.

Michael
P19 Traveller
Columbia SC