Hello all,
I wanted to share the following and am looking for your wisdom.
A little bit of background, I am a new(er) owner of a 2007 M15 and (this summer) have been in the process of becoming more-and-more familiar with the boat's traits and capabilities. I've got maybe 10 afternoons of sailing under my belt, all on a local lake in MN. Having mastered the basics of rigging etc., I am currently practicing heaving to, reefing and arriving at the dock under sail only.
This last weekend, conditions called for winds between 5-10 MPH - perfect for a day on the water. Within short time, I came to realize that the wind speeds were closer to the 10-mark, and decided this was a perfect opportunity to practice my newly-learned reefing and heaving to skills. I found a calmer area near(er) to shore, and within short time had the boat sailing again with a single reef in the main.
All went well for the rest of the afternoon, until it was time to head back to the dock. This required crossing the lake (approx. 3-4 miles shore to shore). About midway through the crossing, an unexpected squall came through. Wind gusts were maybe bumping the 15MPH mark, causing the boat to heel beyond the 15-degree mark on my newly-installed heel gauge.
Having read up on other posts, I recall folks talking about weather helm, and that 15-degrees was about the point where one needs to consider reducing the sail (further yet). Also recall that easing up on the main sheet is maybe not the thing to do (but so tempting). A few questions:
1. I assume the smart thing to do would have been to reduce sail prior to the wind picking up (i.e., reef early), but how does one anticipate the unexpected?
2. Whereas my earlier reefing activity took place in calm waters, I have a difficult time envisioning doing this when winds are gusty and water is choppy. Is this something I just have to practice, starting out with calm conditions, and gradually working my way up to the 'hairier' conditions?
3. Should I have dropped the head sail (115%)?
4. What will happen beyond 15-degree of heel? Will she capsize? Here too, I recall folks talking about the boat 'stiffening' up, and sailing with the rail in the water. Being new to the boat, I simply do not know where the limits are, and certainly do not want to explore those being 2 miles of shore.
Your input is welcomed!
Ernie
