This will be my first year on a boat fit to handle *almost* anything.
It's gotten me wondering lately, what rough Lake Michigan conditions others have faced. I'm imagining there will be days when I head to the boat, and have enough trepidation about the waves/winds to simply spend an afternoon in the slip.
In the Chicago area, there are certain hot steamy days, and no telling what can whip up. Often, one only gets a half hour notice... "hmmm, I don't remember seeing that dark cloud ten minutes ago"
I guess a fast blowing system will blast through quickly enough, and dropping sail should work fine.
On wavy days, will the shorter distances between waves challenge the steerage on my e27? I'd think so, especially running.
The boat came with a storm jib, which looks to be in very good condition. The main has two reefing points, but shows it's age. I'm thinking replacing it might be an 'investment' still made this season.
Anyone else care to ruminate about handling rough conditions on Lake Michigan?
I know the best and sound answer is simply - the captain/crew should only head out into what is comfortable for him/her/them. I'll certainly be following that line of thinking all summer. But, as I mentioned early on, I'm wondering what others do - face the weather always, push themselves and boat sometimes, or wait for the fair weather.
It's gotten me wondering lately, what rough Lake Michigan conditions others have faced. I'm imagining there will be days when I head to the boat, and have enough trepidation about the waves/winds to simply spend an afternoon in the slip.
In the Chicago area, there are certain hot steamy days, and no telling what can whip up. Often, one only gets a half hour notice... "hmmm, I don't remember seeing that dark cloud ten minutes ago"
I guess a fast blowing system will blast through quickly enough, and dropping sail should work fine.
On wavy days, will the shorter distances between waves challenge the steerage on my e27? I'd think so, especially running.
The boat came with a storm jib, which looks to be in very good condition. The main has two reefing points, but shows it's age. I'm thinking replacing it might be an 'investment' still made this season.
Anyone else care to ruminate about handling rough conditions on Lake Michigan?
I know the best and sound answer is simply - the captain/crew should only head out into what is comfortable for him/her/them. I'll certainly be following that line of thinking all summer. But, as I mentioned early on, I'm wondering what others do - face the weather always, push themselves and boat sometimes, or wait for the fair weather.