I'll have to see proof of this since all my experience with many fin keelers
of various sizes would indicate it is impossible upwind. Since you are
familiar and claim to be proficient at this task.... combined with your
excellent photography skills, equipment , opportunity and capability to post
the proof... I ask that you confirm your claim with a video clip of Alien
going to weather, under canvas, the helm free and auto pilot removed, no key
in the ignition and the lever in neutral.... with nobody at the helm....
for even 30 seconds. Heck use any comparable fin keeler....

Without such factual proof... your claim has no basis. I don't even
entertain wind speed or sea state to be a concern....

CM


"CANDChelp" wrote in message
...
| Yes... I've never seen a fin keeler that would allow the helm to be left
| unlashed or unstopped and make way upwind with the helm free.
|
| Then you haven't seen a well sailed boat. When Ghost or Alien were "in the
| groove" they tend to stay there. Of course this is less likely in chop and
| heavy gusts, but it can be done with ease on the LIS.
|
| RB