RE: catalina27-talk: Re: Single-handling

[Larry Robertie]

A couple of things.    This past summer I did my first longe(er) range trip from Salem, MA up to and around Casco Bay Maine.  I had the inflatable towed behind all of the time.  That way if I did fall in and could make it to the inflatable I was just a tow rope away.  I was with about 10 other boats in the Catalina Association of New England, but because I’m a 27 and most of the others were much bigger I was seeing a lot of empty horizon (nothing like it).   Also you should have a tether, with a quick release shackle at your PFD.  It does not have to be fancy, just a length of line 6 feet or so and a couple of shackles.  It’s kind of a PITA but discipline yourself to use it ALL of the time.  You might also consider tying a whistle to the PDF, and maybe a small smoke (I didn’t go that far).   Good luck, there’s nothing like being out there, just you and the boat, and let us know were you are planning to go.   Oh yeah, that last part – file a float plan with someone you will be checking in with on a regular basis.   Larry Robertie Cheeky Monkey Boston, MA       From: catalina27-talk@memberclicks.com [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, December 04, 2005 10:38 AM To: catalina27-talk@memberclicks.com Subject: catalina27-talk: Re: Single-handling   Listees   Thinking about trying it alone this coming year.  Installed an autohelm last year, next year lazy jacks.  Already have the requisite auto-inflatable PFD.  But have not figured out the best way to get back in the boat if I happen to fall in and the boat is nearby.      Any thoughts, suggestions, experiences?   John Jennings Escapade 83 Standard, 5267 Hopkins Creek off Middle River, MD