I finally launched our ComPac 19 today. After tying her up at our dock, I checked the forecast and it was showing 8-10 mph winds all day. Perfect! I motored for 2 minutes to get out of our little cove and into Greens Creek. I sailed east a bit to avoid a fisherman checking his traps, and then southwest wing on wing for about a mile until tacking to starboard and slowing down as the trees blocked the wind. I passed by a crab pot buoy and felt the pot scrape the keel. Rounding up I gathered a drink from the cooler and sat for a spell before heading back. Approaching the turn I could see large white caps and quickly reduced the genny. It was a spirited sail as I tacked back and forth down the creek before entering our little cove and ghosting up to the dock. Checking the wind online it was now 18mph. Glad I didn't choose to go out on the river.
Sounds like you had a fun time. Small Boats sail more often. Large boats lounge around the dock, it seems.
I sailed out of Duck Creek this pm, wind on the nose, headed down the Neuse. The forecast of E 10-15kts played out as NE 15 gusting to 20 on the river. With a moderate chop. Good decision on your part. The CP27 did great with the main reefed and the genny furled to 110 or so, but it was a bit bumpy. My CP23 would have been uncomfortable for sure. Heading back with the wind on the stern quarter, made 6-6.5kts easily with just the genny. A great sailing day for sure.