On Sat, 18 Feb 2006 23:41:33 -0500, Ryk
wrote:


At current prices, I think it would be silly not to have wind data
directly available.

I agree. Many instruments give not only "live" wind speed, but record
the speed of the last sustained gust. I tend to reef for that gust
figure, because I am not racing. If I were, I'd figure if I could use
the gusts or ease sheets to compensate so as not to make leeway.

The flip side of the coin, of course, is noticing when the wind is
*dropping*. The sea state will persist for a long time even after the
wind starts to drop, and sometimes the boat will slow so gradually
that one misses an opportunity to shake out a reef.

Finally, if you notice a plunging barometer and the frequently
occuring "calm before the storm", you can batten down and reef in the
very brief period before a squall or other violent front passes over.

Knowing the wind speed isn't always necessary, but as with any
information on board, it's rarely *unnecessary.*

R.