On 23 Feb 2005 14:56:40 -0800, "dudley"
wrote:

From reading the posts, it appears as if the day sailors
are the ones saying they seldom use their motors. The
cruising sailors have a better grip on cruising realities.

dudley
."
Probably so, but it depends on the boat and general orientation of the
cruiser as well. We don't use the engine anywhere near that much, but
our boat is easier to sail in light air than most pure cruising boats,
and goes much faster to windward.

Also, our habits started long ago as day racers. My wife and I raced
505s for our first 7 seasons together (1965-1972).

The cruisers who motor sail make their own "cruising realities" and
why shouldn't they? If they want to spend more time sailing, they may
need a different boat, or perhaps they should leave a lot of gear
ashore, or spring for new sails.

Our habits entail a sail budget that I hate to think about. It would
be cheaper to have a trawler yacht.



Rodney Myrvaagnes NYC J36 Gjo/a


"Curse thee, thou quadrant. No longer will I guide my earthly way by thee." Capt. Ahab