Mike, I am an M15 owner and love. I can raise the mast 1 handed with no mechanical advantage at all. I am 5' 8". I have a video of Howard Audsley raising and lowering the mast on his M17 using a line from the winch to the forestay - one hand on the line and one hand on the mast. I could make a copy if you are interested. I have been on a couple of cruises with the Shallow water sailors. They predominantly sail in protected waters with Dovkies, Bay Hen, Peep Hens, and several Bolger boats. In 1 reef conditions (18 kts with gusts to 20+, protected water with no waves) the M15 towing a 15 ft light dory was faster than the Peep Hen. However I think the Peep Hen is a wonderful boat for it's design purpose which is a beachable protected water cruising boat. The Peep Hen sails pretty well for a high freeboard 14 ft boat and has more cabin space than the M15. Thanks Doug Kelch "Seas the Day" --- LUDLOWD2@aol.com wrote:
Mike If your going to sail SF bay, you need something more seaworthy than a sea pearl or peep hen. Those are warm clime beach boats (sea pearl was on my short list until i needed a cabin and portapotti (new wife). dont regret going with the M-15. As John said, a little organization and she will be the easiest boat ever to rig and launch (my 2 HP honda rides on the boat). She will take the steep chop and high winds. Re the cat boat, IMHO the sloop rig of the M-15 is better pointing into the wind. Why is my destination always upwind no matter what? My suggestion, buy a new M-15. Good Luck Don M-15 Sweet Dream _______________________________________________
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