Re: [Paddlewise] Kayak Sailing

My book has a couple of pages of specific instruction and tips for
sailing with the S-4 Klepper rig.  That and a good general sailing book
for small boats probably would get you started.  This particular sail
rig is prone to capsizes if the boat is lightly loaded and if you are in
areas where sudden gusts can hit you, such as near cliffs and points of
land.  When in doubt, let go of all the sheets (lines) if things start
going wrong and you feel a capsize coming on.

Make certain that the mast has some flotation in it.  Otherwise in a
capsize you could lose it to the briny deep.

ralph

Robinson, Rob wrote:
> 
> I've been following all these threads on sailing, and just can't lurk anymore.  I normally paddle hard-shell, but a couple of years ago I bought a used (1987 vintage) Klepper Aerius ll.   I bought it for packing along on my annual powerboat (stinkpot to my ragbagging friends) trip to Canada's Desolation Sound area - I just can't fit a hard-shell on my boat and still have the first mate willingly handle lines.  Life has been good and the Klepper has allowed me to continue kayaking pretty much all year.  But, when I bought the Klepper I also got this mysterious bag containing "the sail".  I don't know beans about sailing, and I've never even looked in this bag.  All this talk about sailing has made me feel I may be missing something important - again.  Basically my question is, can a person who has never sailed -- might not even recognize one when I see it -- teach themselves how to use this thing?  Or am I just asking for a major refresher course in swimming and self rescue?
> Thanks, Rob.
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