Jeff Morris wrote:

I've sailed many dozens of centerboard boats - I can't imagine one that would sail with a
free tiller without some active control of weight and sails.

Right. That's exactly what it takes.... active & skilled control of the boat using trim of
both weight and sails. Did anybody say otherwise?


In fact, many centerboard
boats can be sailed without a rudder. But this is not the same as tracking a straight
line unattended for and extended distance.

Right again, but I never claimed I could "track a straight line unattended for an extended
distance" with the rudder swinging free. It seems you're looking for something that is not
here.

Maybe a soul that has achieved Nirvana can sail along a perfectly straight course with no
hand on the helm, just through sheer virtue & force of personality. However, I doubt anybody
hanging around this newsgroup is there yet.

Fresh Breezes- Doug King