sailing speed

[paydirt]

I know there are so many variables so it is difficult to say and that there is probably a formula for speed but I am planning a trip to Egmont Key which is about 3-4 nautical miles away. I want to make sure I have enough time to get there and back. if i have decent wind, etc. how long on average do you think it will take to sail that far in the compac 16? just a ballpark figure is all i need

[Sailor]

My Compac sails on average 4 kph on a close reach, 6 to 10 mph wind with the main and genoa up. That's just tooling along, not paying much attention. It easily hits 5 when actually paying attention to heel and trim. 55lbs thrust troling motor pushes it 3 kph. That's on a pretty empty boat. Two adults totaling 370lbs. Sails, motor.  Inland lake, no current or tides to deal with. Hope that helps!
S

[nies]

4.0 is a good estimate in 5 to 10 mph wind...............always give yourself plenty of time has been my motto...........nies

[Garyandjoanlee]

Ditto on the 4 KPH or 4.6 mph if you need the distance in miles. Keep the sails well trimmed with 8-12 winds and you should see 5KPH

[paydirt]

thanks I appreciate the help. it is my first trip away from shore so hopefully all will go well

[Bob23]

It'll go just fine. The 16 is a tough little boat. She will get you there and back safe! And you'll have trouble wiping that grin off your face!

[brackish]

Keep in mind with your planning that wind direction is a factor in trip time estimating.  If you have a beam reach each way that is ideal.  If you have a beat to weather one way and a run the other, and you don't plan to motor, you will have to add time for the beat, and maybe for the run depending on how your boat and sail inventory is set up to handle the downwind run.

[DaleM]

This sounds like a nice sail in the Compac. I am bringing my Com16 to Tampa and leaving it for a few months.  It's a haul from Macon, Ga. and there is so many nice areas to sail. 
Any suggestions on easy launch locations around Tampa where the traffic isn't too heavy?
Thanks.

[paydirt]

This sounds like a nice sail in the Compac. I am bringing my Com16 to Tampa and leaving it for a few months.  It's a haul from Macon, Ga. and there is so many nice areas to sail. 
Any suggestions on easy launch locations around Tampa where the traffic isn't too heavy?
Thanks.

Im not sure about Tampa as I live south of the skyway in Manatee county. I know that several on the forum sail on lake tarpon in palm harbor. I would say somewhere off the beaten path as it is very difficult getting in and out of ramps that are busy with boaters who are usually drinking. it can be difficult to deal with at times. anclote key, caladessi island, honeymoon island, all seem like nice places but not super close to Tampa. I guess it depends on how far you want to drive