[quote=BrianCT]Goodspeed, If you're bored on a Hobie 18 in steady 17MPH/15 Knots of wind (read: moderate whitecap conditions), my suggestion would be to read up on the mainsheet tension, traveler, mast rotation and downhaul. "Catamaran Racing From Start to Finish" is an excellent book from former Hobie World Champion Phil Berman. The conditions you described, which are good conditions in the Chesapeake, are ideal conditions for your boat. You should be flying a hull easily in those winds. even if you had crew onboard.
Like you, I sailed my 18 solo probably 80% of the time. With the jib deployed you aren't likely to get caught in irons unless you make a mistake. The jib can also be helpful in tacking the boat, especially in big swells. Did you raise the mast by yourself? I did that once and won't be doing it again. :lol: I've also experienced the jib halyard getting tangled up on the wires - total PITA! Tape or bungee your trap wires and jib halyard to the mast when raising. Another thing I found helpful when raising the mast is to pin the hinge and rest the free (aft) end on a 6' step ladder about 10 feet behind the boat. Much, much easier as you don't have to "navigate" the diamond wires whilst in a deep squat on a bouncy tramp. I recommend replacing the broken cone on the end of your Cat Trax. The cones also help keep the wheels aligned under the boat and you don't want that pipe or cracked cone poking a hole in your hull.
One last bit of advise - when moving the boat around the beach solo using the "Oxen" method via the bridal wires, make sure you first loosen the furler sheet or you risk breaking the plastic furler housing. Been there....
Fair winds!<!-- editby --><em>Edited by BrianCT on May 25, 2015 - 04:59 PM.</em><!-- end editby --> [/quote]
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