[quote=Dannyski]An 18 is arguably the best compromise for being able to solo or 1-2 crew. I have had my '85 H18 for many years and park it on the beach for the summer. I back it in with bows toward the water, and tie it down at both forward and rear crossbars using mobile home anchors ($5 each). When solo, I wiggle it forward, by moving one bow at a time, more sideways than forward. When returning, it's the reverse, but from the center area of the rear crossbar. I put one hand on the hull lip, and the other on the deadeye. Again I use a side-to-side pull and wiggle technique. With two people, just lift the stern and pull it backwards by dragging on the bows. Of course beach wheels would make launching and parking go so much easier.
There's a cool rush when solo, on the wire, rippin' through the waves at plus 10 knots.... my top while solo was a GPS-recorded 22 knots, but I had to be sharp to avoid a capsize in the gusts. I have yet to pitchpole (no spinny), but experienced several capsizes, always while tacking or about to tack. Except once, when I had a hull up without my heels dug into the tramp lacing. I slid across without letting go of the tiller - duh! Gotta love those stink-boaters who love to "help" us. I always have them lift the end of the mast - pops right up. I have buried a bow to the crossbar without the hint of disaster. Solid boat. Much tougher than a 16, especially in rougher water. What a ride!
Happy sailing ...
Dan[/quote]
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