Capt. JG wrote:
We have a bunch of 16.5s in our fleet. They're great boats, but can be hard
to handle short-handed in high winds, which are common out here.

Well, duh. As for the strong winds, that's why sailing out
there is so much fun (not to mention dodging freighters).


... They're
primarily used for beginning classes, with great care taken to ensure a
safety boat is nearby.


Why? Don't you teach capsize recovery?

BTW there are float-top mainsails that prevent turtling, a
big plus for club boats. Next time you all think about new
sails for these Capris (or any other crew-ballasted boats)
consider 'em. It's also possible to just tie a swim noodle
to the main halyard shackle, but looks dorky.

DSK