Well after the tropical cyclone passed (which prevented any sailing on launch day) we had four great weeks of summer holidays to sail in. (The holiday and the subsequent knuckling back down to study have been the reason for the long delay in posting).
We’re wrapped with how the boat goes. I’m very happy we chose the Navigator. And especially glad we had the big race rig.
We’ve tested her in all kinds of conditions up to a gust of about 30 knots (which was more than I liked). Four crew in 15 knts and she just goes! Any more wind and you have to start reefing, but we’ve got two big reefs which work well.
We were concerned about how lots of the systems would work, but for the most part they were really good. Apart from the rudder which we tore off twice. The first time was beating in 15 knts in a good chop. Frantic reactions from Zac and me were all that kept us upright, and got the sail dropped.
We’ve had the gennaker up about three times. Not in too much wind so far, but looking forward to more of that, as it could be fairly exciting!
Navigator S is a John Welsford designed 4.5m dinghy built in Tauranga, New Zealand. The S for Sports represents the racing rig option and a few ‘go faster’ modifications we've made. The builders were Luke (22), Zac (16) and Roy (the Dad).
We started building in May 2005. Work has been done on-and-off, on weeknights and Saturdays. She was launched on 19 January 2008.
Please feel free to add comments or ask questions. Click below on the archive section to read older posts.
If you’d like to stay updated just enter your email below to be notified of new posts. (I will never share your email address or spam you!)
'Chirp' my recently sold Starling dinghy - 'Pilgrim' our first building effort, a Firebug - 'Windhook' Dad's Frostply - and a Chesapeake 16 Kayak I built
No comments:
Post a Comment