On Thu, 08 Apr 2004 19:14:39 GMT, Jack Dale
wrote:

I have heard stories, uncorroborated, of keel-stepped masts carrying
away the coach roof during dismasting.

Me, too. But if the choice is a big hole in the roof or a big hole at
the waterline....G

There are probably well and poorly designed keel and deck stepped
masts. A good solid step and a well engineered compression post are
necessary on a deck-stepped mast.

Absolutely. This is key in anything, and from what I've seen of them,
I wouldn't sneer at a Pacific Seacraft for a second. I simply indicate
a slight personal preference that, if not met, would in no sense be a
deal breaker.

Of course, I always like stowing stuff in hammocks secured to the
keel-stepped mast, too...G

R.