Howdy!
Buried in a number of discussions here are threads of cold weather sailing. I recommend reading everything you can to get a number of tidbits of good ideas for these boats.
Some of the best ideas for cold weather sailing include:
- Using a dodger. Some swear by them, but I haven't yet tried one. I like having easy access to lines.
- A good Gortex drysuit is key. I recommend the Kokatat expedition one with attached booties and a hood. Although expensive, you'll end up using it year round in Norway.
- Neoprene booties 3 sizes bigger than your regular size over the dry suit's feet.
- Heavy duty neoprene gloves (NRS makes great ones).
- Heavy fleece pants and coats inside the suit. Warm socks. There's plenty of room for inside layering.
- One fellow here uses a Stearns cold weather coat with built in life preserver when things really get cold.
-A windproof fleece balaclava.
- Perhaps a skiing face mask of some kind?
- Try chemical hand and foot warmer packets.
-Bringing your boats to Hawaii and sailing there is the best cure!
These things will make a huge difference. A friend and I did a one week camping trip on Yellowstone Lake last year a week after the ice broke. We stayed warm and dry, and ended up often continuing to wear our drysuits while setting up camp and cooking.
Happy Trails!
Chris