Due to my typing fingers being more alert than my brain last night, I asked Tod if BuscaBrisas had been trailered down the Bella Coola hill... BuscaBrisas was sailed *to* Bella Coola, not *from* there! Was Bella Coola the original destination, or did they simply become too enchanted by the scenery to go farther north? Thanks to everyone sharing their experiences with slugs, boltropes, and just the mechanics of handling the mainsail. It had never occurred to me to stand in the cabin to handle the sail. I'm sure hoping that ridiculously expensive pre-feeder makes a big difference. I'll send a report here. And sailing the little boat vs the big boats: I read with interest, Tim's thoughts on sailing different sizes, and am glad I'm not just imagining things... I have really enjoyed the closeness to the wind, the water, the responsiveness of the boat to conditions, and the maneuverability of the M17. Doesn't take a gale force wind to feel like you've had some excitement! Danelle "Ceto" M17 #378 Ketchikan, AK