My drifter is a hank on nylon sail--about 700 or 800 sq ft. I had
to take it down, even though the wind was very light. Or I would
have come in way too fast.

I directed one of my crew to ease its sheet. She lost her grip and
it went flying and the sail started to wrap--which was part of the
reason the foredeck crew had some difficulty hauling it down.

Now, if I can just get the engine to work more reliably. I'm 0/2
with my engine last two times out. I fixed the problem with the
fuel system, and now I have to study the coolant problem. I
have a spare impeller right in front of me. I'm hoping that is the
problem. I'm going to check the raw water inlet also.

***
I'm going to put roller furling on the boat next year, and I'll then toss
this drifter out, or make an awning out of it. At some point I'd get a
free flying drifter like your's.

How far upwind can you sail with your drifter? Mine is like
a genoa, the hanks let me haul it in tight with good shape. I lead
it to the stern and then forward to the organ grinder. The sail has
seen better days--its getting tired, and there are a few rust stains.

Even so, it is an amazing sail and gets the boat moving in very
light conditions like we had yesterday.

Bart

"Thom Stewart" wrote WAY TO GO SALTY:

AIN"T THAT A NICE WAY TO COME HOME!

The first trip out with my new Crewman Don, I came in the same way.
Drifter, set flying free. I usually do that. I keep the engine running
at Idle. Just so I have reverse to stop but very seldom use it.

Don was so darn happy. It has been one of the favorite things for him
when we sail.

Bart, don't worry about taking down sails until your moored. Just cast
off the sheets and let the sail windmill. It help stopping. Also makes
for a much neater take down

Ole Thom