Cowan Lake State Park
After nearly 4 months in hibernation was able to get our Hobie Tandem Island out for her first sail of the year. It will not officially be spring until the 22nd so this qualified as my first winter sail. Winds were light ~5kts with the temp in the mid 60’s, a perfect day to re-acquainted with our TI and to try out the newly added spinnaker/reacher kit purchased from and installed by Strictly Sail just a few weeks ago.
The addition of the new sail and hardware added significant additional capability in broad reach and downwind haul situations. It makes less windy days more enjoyable.
I spent the first 45 minutes just sailing with the new spinnaker getting used to moving it back and forth with a change in direction. I also deployed and retracted it a few times to get used to the halyard line operation. Then a 15 minute upwind dash with just the main deployed to set up for my downwind run. Luckily the Wind direction was nearly parallel with the longest stretch of open water. As I turned downwind I deployed the spinnaker and the main; what a difference more sail brings you. Our Hobie TI took off and I had a blast riding high with the extra power.
I also played with the spinnaker angle from wide open to tight to get the feel for its operation. You have to manage two additional sheet lines and the halyard line but after just a few minutes I got the hang of it. Visibility is restricted on side of the boat that the spinnaker is deployed so its best to make sure you know what’s around you at all times (just a few fishing boats this day).
Thanks to Hobie and the team at Strictly Sail for keeping this Hobie sailor a very satisfied client. I am really looking forward to the coming months and the hours sailing all over the US.
Co-Captain of the JoJo-B
2015 Hobie Tandem Island