Hello!

I was wondering how you all get on with sailing your canoes (without outriggers) when sailing in over force 3 beaufort? I always have trouble in finding a good spot to wedge me feet so I can lean far out to get greater leaverage. Dinghy sailors seem to have an easyer time due to the broader craft...

Do hou have any tips?



Have a good day :-)

Dingy sailors often have hiking straps to hook their feet in. I've considered that for mine when I put on the new sail. Attach them to the rail.

Yes I had thought of using windsurf foot straps but on my Solway Dory canoe it would be a shame to attach stuff like that as it really looks like a classic... Here on Lake Geneva I can't launch without at least 20 min chat with someone interested in the intreaging craft ;-)

What about the way you lean out, I have noticed some people sort of sit on the rail but facing more forward than usual... These questions might seem silly but it the basics must be the key to speed and safety...

I adjust my body angle according to the needs of the moment. If I need the bow down I tend to sit more perpendicular to the hull. If I need it up, I tend to slide my butt back, which causes me to face forward a bit.

The best way to decide what you need is to go do it!

Post us a photo of your boat!

My outriggers even at F5 work very well: no heeling, no worry about capsizing. I enjoy sailing and concentrate on wind direction, and I look around to see beauties of nature. Of course I double reef on mainsail while mizzen sail stays usually full (although I can reef). It's simply my point of view concerning this way of sailing, but I may not be wrong to say that I see many canoe people going more to outriggers. Now we can see all kind of models; from plywood models to plastic, and even inflatable model (wow). There are plans available for a do-it yourself project, and models ready to go from stores. All that for one reason: having a safer sailing day to enjoy.