by Guest » Mon Jun 16, 2003 5:39 pm
Jay,
I've sailed my daysailer along the Jersey coast, on the outer reaches of Casco Bay, ME and on Vineyard Sound. Absolutely you can take a day sailer in the ocean! Here's what I've learned from those experiences that may be helpful: (1) I don't go in unprotected waters in wind above 15 knots, (2) have a reliable 4+ HP motor in case you get stuck in a strong current or are overpowered and downwind of your destination, (3) when the swells and wind pick up, you may end-up surfing down the fronts of swells, particularly on a run. Be gentle with the tiller, the boat tends to want to broach in that situation which would probably result in a capsize, (4) I carry a handheld radio when offshore and, of course, proper safety gear ready in the cockpit. Enjoy!
Mark (miller_mark_web-at-yahoo.com)