by spoefish » Thu Aug 03, 2006 12:46 pm
Having all the lines in the cockpit is a big help, and one thing that has not been mentioned is a line from the head of the jib that runs down to a block at the tack. When this line is led aft to the cockpit it lets you pull down the jib without having to go forward. A big help when things are bouncing around and you need to get sails in. I started using this on my Typhoon and liked it so much that I added it to my DS I. Having all the haulyards, etc where you can get to them while standing in the cockpit is a comfortable feeling and gives you a lot of control. On your jib sheet you might consider having just one line with both ends tied to the clew - that way the sheet is just a loop going through the cockpit and you are never hunting for a loose end. A lot of little things you will figure out, and in the end you will end up with works for you. Sailing a DS solo is great fun and that is how most of my time has been spent.
Stephen
1976 15’ Matinicus Peapod, cedar lapstrake, spritsail
1979 Cape Dory Typhoon “Nymph”
1983 Day Sailer I, 11670 “Full Circle”
2004 17” Atkinson Traveler cedar & canvas canoe with lateen sailing rig
And a barn full of wooden canoes and kayaks, a rowing Whitehall, etc.
"When you are playin' the banjo, everything is OK"
Steve Martin