NOHUHU wrote:
Flaneur, that looks like a beam reach in a stiff 20+MPH wind. I would guess the boat was unbalanced by too much sail and maybe the swell. On an AI, I would be reefing the sail to 50% and then letting it out bit by bit until I buried an Ama or had to fight the helm.
Did you sail the AI before getting this boat? If so, do you feel like the extra sail area overpowers the rudder more quickly than it would on an AI (in the same conditions)?
I've never sailed an AI other than a quick 10 minute demo on a calm lake about 4 years ago. So I can't compare. The wind was probably pushing 20 mph (it was 15-20 on my meter before I went out), and yes I agree, I should probably have reefed the sail. I've now learned, through this board, that reefing the sail isn't only for keeping the ama from getting buried. I was slightly into the wind, but it was pretty close to a beam reach. Even though the sail is full I was pushing through so much chop the boat wasn't able to really cut through the water that fast or efficiently, so that's why I had the sail all the way out. I'll admit I rarely reef it because it just seems more fun to be overpowered in extreme conditions. This is the first boat I've sailed, so I'll admit I'm a novice sailor. I'm steadily learning what to do, and learning things such as the rudder CAN be overpowered (who knew?). I've been kitesurfing for over 8 years, so that helps a little, but it's a lot different on a boat. Maybe that's why I'm looking for a little more extreme experience on the TI.