Pete: These people don't know what they are talking about. I've seen people say these things even when I was part of Larry Yake's MSOG group cruises. Many people incorrectly think size equals safety. Nope. All of Jerry's boats are safe craft and seaworthy if captained smartly. I believe the greatest danger cruising the Salish Sea, late spring through early fall, is the large powerboats and their 'captains' that don't know the rules of safe boating (like giving room/way to a SAILBOAT under sail) and being aware of their LARGE and damage/injury-causing wakes - especially for smaller craft. Watch the forecast. Know your personal limits. Don't go against strong currents in constricted channels. Be aware of tide rips and their dangers. If you feel you can safely handle and stay the boat your age doesn't matter. :: Dave Scobie :: M6'8" #650 :: SV SWALLOW - sv-swallow.com :: former owner M17 #375 SWEET PEA - m17-375.com :: former owner M15 #288 SCRED - www.freewebs.com/m15-named-scred/ On Tue, Aug 13, 2019, 7:25 AM Peter Zimowsky via montgomery_boats < montgomery_boats@mailman.xmission.com> wrote:
Hi folks: I don’t want to be a bother, posting lots of novice questions. However, I’m new to my M15 “Chinook Breeze” No. 377. I’ve only been sailing it for four years and with only three open water adventures in the San Juan Islands. When I pull into a marina like Friday Harbor, Rosario or Roche, people often remark “That’s a small boat. Should you really be out here?” “It’s pretty gutsy for you to be out here.” And since I’m 72, people think I’m crazy. I think I’ve had more hair-raising adventures on my local reservoir than in the islands. So, how safe is it to be solo sailing in the islands or some other larger bodies of water? I know the Monty 15 has crossed the ocean. How safe is it to be only one boat on a trip without others. I like to sail solo for the peace and contemplation. Thanks again for such a wonderful email forum helping beginner boaters.
Pete Winter Sky (Zimowsky)
outdoors writer and photographer www.getoutdoorsnorthwest.com <http://www.getoutdoorsnorthwest.com/> Twitter: @zimosoutdoors
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