First sail...soon

[Epic1969]

Well I have been working on my 1991 compac 16 the last couple weeks and she has improved looks wise considerably since I purchased her. I buffed with orbital/restorer and buffed with cleaner wax and waxed and waxed  hull looks a lot better. I am thinking I will paint next spring since I will probably scratch her hull learning to safely launch/dock. I sent the sails to sailcare and will be expecting them early next week. I am restoring teak tomorrow. This site has been a great tool in my current endeavor. Now that the boat is nearly ready to launch, I am coming to realize I have no clue how to sail her! I have sailed hobies a couple times in recent years and I am a fairly good windsurfer so I am not totally clueless as to how wind works with sails. I live in northeast Ohio and plan on taking her out on Mosquito lake then eventually Erie near shore and then eventually across Erie. Is anyone up for giving me a lesson? Of course I would be willing to pay for education OR should I just pick a nice 5-10kt day and take her out? Any advise on first sail would be appreciated! I am not afraid of water, I was a Class IV-V whitewater kayaker in my younger days and I still dream of big wave fall days on Erie so I can surf!

Erik

[Duckie]

I had been sailing a gaffer for four years when I bought my CP 16 and had never taken a lesson.  I should have.  Anyway, when I first took my 16 out, I found that I was able to tie off the controls and let it sail itself in reasonably light wind.  That is how reliable these little boats can be.  It sounds like you have enough knowledge to start if you don't go out when it is blowing like stink, so don't be afraid to take a crack at it.  I am willing to bet that there is a sailing school nearby where you live that would offer both private and class lessons.  Do a search and sign up.  You will be years ahead of the game. 

I think in the end you will discover that you have chosen wisely.  For what they are, CP 16's are pretty hard to beat. 

Al

[carry-on]

Erik,
Your 16 will be very friendly to sail, alone or with a mate. Before you launch, suggest a thorough look at the stays and all connection points while the mast is down. Replacing all the cotters pins/rings is cheap insurance and quick to accomplish. Check and lube of the masthead sheaves.
A little dry sailing in an open parking area to become familiar with the halyards and sheets.
Check the caulking at the cockpit drains.
If you are alone, docking or retrieving on the trailer in a cross wind is a challenge because the bow can swing quickly.
If you go to (The sailboat company) http://www.ipass.net/sailboat/ you will find specific and detailed advice for sailing the 16.
Hope you enjoy your little yacht.