Topic: my maiden voyage on Lake Erie
I just got back from my second sailing day with my new Contessa 26 on Lake Erie. I am still learning how the boat handles but she sails great in the rough seas I have been in so far. I sailed with only a headsail due to the winds between 15 - 20 knots (gust unknown) and healing between 20-30 degrees in 5-6 foot seas. I used bungee cords to self-steer on a close-reach, though playing a little with the headsail, I could go to beam reach. On broad reach to run, I had to take over the tiller. On using the mailsail,I like a bit calmer day just to get use to it but I might have to bit the bullet soon if I am go to use it this fall before I have her pulled out. The hardest part in my sailing experience is getting in and out of my slip with a strong wind, as I tried 5 times day to get into my slip this afternoon before having to ask for assistance. I have to think up a way to dock with more guide ropes to help me out and not bang up the boat in the process. I was lucky to have someone around to help me today. Doing things solo has its draw backs at times. Last Saturday, I sailed but it rained most of the time (Seas 3-4 feet, winds 14-15 knots - my guess) I was out but then it stopped when I got back in my slip, Murphy's Law playing with me;-) Next weekend, I will be out there again enjoying my boat in whatever weather given us. Just wanted to tell someone I had fun today, thx