Finished modifying my Carolina Skiff trailer to accommodate the Bravo today, and even though it was 97 degrees out the wind was blowing about 13 mph, so I just had to get her wet for the 1st time. I've sailed since I was 5 years old, but never on a catamaran. I was real pleased with how easy it was to setup and launch, and when I dropped the rudder and pulled out the main I was shocked at how she took off. Had a hull flying for a short time, but eased off the main and dropped it back down. This was my very first sail on the Bravo and on a catamaran and it will take a little getting used to.
Sailed to the opposite shore on a reach, and when it was time to come about I absolutely could not do it. Tried three times and got stuck in irons each time. I'm used to mono hulls and pushing the tiller over hard when coming about. This technique obviously is not valid for cats. It was like slamming on the brakes.
Any hints / tips from you experienced cat sailors would be greatly appreciated. I naturally re-read the manual AFTER I got back, and it basically indicated that you should sail as close to the wind as possible then EASE the tiller over when coming about.
I liked the fact that the Bravo is somewhat self-correcting when a puff tries to knock you down - she gets over so far and the single rudder loses grip and she heads up on her own. Helm felt just right as set from the factory - just enough weather helm.
Love this boat - but definitely looking forward to fall. This Texas heat is too much, or I am getting too old, or both