Stuffin' the Bow...

L&VW

Well-Known Member
The wind picked up suddenly, and I had a wild ½-mile ride directly downwind back to home base. The daggerboard couldn't be moved up (I daren't move forward—nor secure the mainsheet), so just hoped for the best. There were times when the bow became partially buried in the "next" wave. Concerned, I watched as my paddle (mounted forward) broke up oncoming water, and watched as the mast split waves in half! :eek:

My question: Has anyone actually come to a memorable "submarine stop" in a similar situation? :oops:
 
The wind picked up suddenly, and I had a wild ½-mile ride directly downwind back to home base. The daggerboard couldn't be moved up (I daren't move forward—nor secure the mainsheet), so just hoped for the best. There were times when the bow became partially buried in the "next" wave. Concerned, I watched as my paddle (mounted forward) broke up oncoming water, and watched as the mast split waves in half! :eek:

My question: Has anyone actually come to a memorable "submarine stop" in a similar situation? :oops:
Yes, big waves will do that, unless you are really good and find a way around (or with) them going downwind.
The sudden stops can cause the mast to break or bend. That's why there's a sleeve inside 'newer' masts, but it can only do so much...
 
I have seen a Sunfish dig the bow in and do a pitchpole capsize, but it is rare. To avoid the problem in these wind/wave conditions, don't sail dead downwind - head up a little to put the boat on a broad reach; you will go faster and keep the bow out of the next wave face.

Alan Glos
Cazenovia, NY
 
Hhhmmm. Wonder if a retrofit sleeve would be good preventative measure?
If you have a Sunfish that has seen salt water, it'd be a good idea. If you can tolerate having one, automobile exhaust pipe is a good, snug fit--but heavy. (Stainless exhaust is available). Try Meineke for free "scrap".

Recyclers will likely something in aluminum that will fit. Whatever you use, it should extend somewhat above the gooseneck and below the deck, IMHO.

.
 
I have seen a Sunfish dig the bow in and do a pitchpole capsize, but it is rare. To avoid the problem in these wind/wave conditions, don't sail dead downwind - head up a little to put the boat on a broad reach; you will go faster and keep the bow out of the next wave face. Alan Glos Cazenovia, NY
My first thought was to have lowered the sail, and "sail" home with "a bare pole". (I've done that before, with gratifying steering response—and results).

Background: I was stuck on a starboard tack—a rocky shoreline to my right. :oops: Where I might have been shielded from strong winds, I was instead caught in winds that had picked up speed close to that shore. :eek: Too windy to risk a jibe, would you have considered a broad reach while "sailing by the lee"? :confused:

.
 

Back
Top