low in the bilge
Eric Zilbert (eezilbert@ucdavis.edu)
Fri, 18 Jun 1999 13:49:55 -0700
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West Wight Potter Website at URL
http://www.lesbois.com/wwpotter/
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All - I have to say that when out on SF bay and in the Carquinez Straits,
or on the Sacto River, I have had the boat definitely over powered and have
always felt in control of the degree of heel. The worst was when I didn't
have a storm jib, and tried to push on with the lapper. Though lee helm
was not a problem, I had to dump wind frequently to maintain my angle of
heel at about 20 degrees. It was real work to hang on to the main sheet,
but keeping it un-cleated in a blow is the best way to keep it upright.
This is really important when the unexpected gust/wave/wake comes along and
the sky tilts crazily. We only have one set of reef points on the main,
though I think they are higher than on most p-19s (Ted, yours was built
only 5 boats after mine, how many reef points do you have?). I like the
way the boat sails with the reefed main and small jib. In the main, three
tried and true rules hold: Reef when you first think of it! Heave to
when things get crazy! Hold the main by hand! Might also add - learn to
sail in favorable conditions!
As far as "improving" the potters - there are some design elements and
aspects of the physics of the situation you can't change. However, a well
tuned boat is a joy to sail, as is any good tool to use. I know because as
a sea scout we sailed a lot of crappy, leaky, dangerous boats (donations).
As skippers we need to be sure our boats are first and foremost as safe as
possible for our passengers. This means well maintained, well equiped,
and well tuned. - Not for speed, though this can't be hurt, but
principally for safety. - Eric Z
Eric Zilbert
Davis "not by the sea" California
P19 #621 "Riptide"