SAILING AND VOYAGING ADVICE

-Consider New England Ropes 'Stay-Set' and 'Stay-Set X' rope if you're replacing Halyards or sheets. This rope is very economical and is probably the best value for low-stretch rope available (see 'rope' on the links page). R18's should be using 1/4" or 5/16" dia. rope (no need to go any larger) for halyards. -If you are sailing 'into wind', on a light wind, shift your weight a little leeward and keep the boat heeled slightly leeward.  This will improve pointing on the R18 and the T18. -With a shoal keel boat, such as the R18 and the T18, you will have less leeway if you increase speed. So, to increase speed, you may have to avoid pointing so directly into wind. Thus, making wider 'slightly faster' tacks. -Keep a checklist of things you will be taking on a voyage. Build on it every time you take a journey. You'll be surprised at what you can forget! -Saltine crackers and trail mix last a long time, and are great for quick snacks. Keep crackers in tins and trail mix in zip-lock bags. -Joy liquid soap is great for washing dishes in salt water. -To avoid mold and stagnant air in the cabin space, consider installing a solar vent (Nicro Vent ).  This vent is totally solar powered and operates day and night on a solar rechargeable backup battery.  It costs about $120.  Mount it on the deck just aft of the forstay, and add a passive vent at the transom.  This will allow air to flush completely through the inside of the boat. -For your 12v electrical system, consider using an 'Optima blue top' (or any gel battery).  They are completely sealed, and can be mounted in any direction.  They can take an amazing amount of abuse, and really hold a charge. They are a bit pricey, but that initial cost well worth it.  Especially with their shelf life, and guarantee. -consider keeping a solar panel aboard ship.  They can keep your battery charged up (trickle charge) during use, and when you're not using the boat. You can even get a flexible type that you can put on your deck, and even walk on! -consider keeping a VHF radio that that has the capability to tune in to the marine weather station (the weather may change more quickly than you expect) and allows you to contact the Coast Guard or your local Marina(you never know, you may run out of gas and need a tow!). -Consider purchasing a GPS unit for your boat.  They are getting quite inexpensive these days, especially the handheld units.  They are extremely helpful in many ways, such as your speed, direction, and can assist you in determining how long your return to port will be.  For you coastal sailors, they can really help, should you find yourself in a sudden fog. -Consider using 'mini-cell foam' for your cockpit seat cushions.  It is very durable, washable, very high density foam.  It makes an amazing difference in your comfort, if you are sailing for any length of time. -keep spares of often-used parts aboard.  Especially a spare rigging line (and cable clamps).  Don't let a missed spare spoil your day. -To improve sail efficiency and trim, consider using 'telltales'. There are three basic types:    1-a weather vane mounted at the top of the mast    2-wool or nylon thread tied to the port and starboard mast 'stays' (about 2-3 foot above the deck)    3-Velcro-attached telltales to the front third of each sail (West Marine has more info, I believe). -Try the rules of boating:     1-Keep the boat in the water     2-Keep the water out of the boat     3-Stay in the boat -Enjoy sailing.  Don't rush. Be courteous to the deck hands!

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