You described a potentially dangerous condition in the article. When sailing singlehanded [or even doublehanded] a boat that does not round up under a gusty situation practically screams out for a modification to the sail plan, especially if you intend to go offshore.
I would advise working out the center of effort of the sail plan and moving it aft, either by installing a smaller staysail or jib or by modifying the rig. Reinforce the foredeck and create a hardpoint to attach your headsail. Before you do either, figure out the center of lateral resistance and pick a location about 4 or 5 inches ahead of the CLR you intend to establish as your CE. If you can get a copy of the profile drawing from the builder, ask them to mark the CLR on the drawing.
You should end up with a safe amount of weather helm and avoid the risk of being tossed into the briny.
I think a better overall choice would have been the O'Day Mariner. Particularly the mid years model with the arch mast support (not post). More room, better cabin, more centerboard heft, less tendency to capsize. Mariners aer under appreciated boats ... except by people that actually own one. www.usmariner.org
You described a potentially dangerous condition in the article. When sailing singlehanded [or even doublehanded] a boat that does not round up under a gusty situation practically screams out for a modification to the sail plan, especially if you intend to go offshore.
I would advise working out the center of effort of the sail plan and moving it aft, either by installing a smaller staysail or jib or by modifying the rig. Reinforce the foredeck and create a hardpoint to attach your headsail. Before you do either, figure out the center of lateral resistance and pick a location about 4 or 5 inches ahead of the CLR you intend to establish as your CE. If you can get a copy of the profile drawing from the builder, ask them to mark the CLR on the drawing.
You should end up with a safe amount of weather helm and avoid the risk of being tossed into the briny.
Minimalism at its finest!
Well thought out mods 👍
I think a better overall choice would have been the O'Day Mariner. Particularly the mid years model with the arch mast support (not post). More room, better cabin, more centerboard heft, less tendency to capsize. Mariners aer under appreciated boats ... except by people that actually own one. www.usmariner.org