puffs

[phil]

When sailing around with no particular destination in mind, would it be better to handle strong puffs by heading up or dumping air?

[Baysailer]

Phil,

You're better off releasing the main to dump some air. When you head up the boat will keel further until it settles back down on its new tack. Not an issue in small puffs but on big wind days when your just trying to keep it level as best you can your leward gunnel will get closer to the water than you might want, maybe way closer.