SO 36i Solo sailing

[sitara]

Hi all,

Main sheet control at the helm?

I am looking at upgrading from my fantastic SO29.2 to an SO36i. I do a lot of solo day sailing during the week and am wondering how easy it is to manage the main-sheet from the helm position. Can it be successfully routed to the unused genoa winch?

We sail in Port Phillip bay which is subject to strong gusty winds making good control of the main a necessity for controlling any tendency to round-up in upwind works.

Any other comments on the pros/cons of moving to a 36i would be really welcome.

Many thanks and good sailing.

Sitara

[MalcolmP]

Whilst the layout on the 39i obviously differs from the 36i in regard number of wheels, I do precisely what you suggest and will lead the main back (after a part turn on the coachroof winch) to the free genoa winch - this is best on starboard tack as the sheet does not then have to cross the cockpit, all works well if I am on board alone- however I will be upgrading over the winter to a German twin sheet arrangement, still finalising it but probably will put double clutches near the genao winches (possibly replacing the existing turning foot blocks) the only hassle looks like installing a chainplate for near the shroud on the sidedeck as the lead back to the gooseneck means the sheet may slightly rub so I may install a stainless rub strip

Will post pictures - but not for a few months probably (still saving to meet the OTT harken prices)

[debenboy]

I solo on my 36i and have increased the purchase on the mainsheet plus added a swivelling Spinlock powerclutch in line between the main clutch and the halyard winch. I can dump and play the mainsheet from the wheel , although in heavier conditions, I apply the autopilot and use the winch.

I have also added powerclutches on the traveller control lines.
I tie the end of the mainsheet to the pushpit, and tie the ends of the traveller lines to each other around the base of the steering pedestal.
There is a thread on a similar more powerful sytem om a SO 37 in the "Hints and Tips" section of this site.

[rene]

Sitara,

The 36i is a wonderful boat with good sailing qualities. For solo sailing in gusty conditions I would definitely go for the German main sheet system, having the possibility on both sides to release the main sheet.

Rene

[sitara]

Thanks all,
Good to know there are ways around. Now to start the upgrade process!

Cheers Sitara

[SO 36i - Penelope]

Hi,

I have a german mainsheet system installed on my SO36i which makes very easy to sail solo. Both the Genua and the Mainsail are handled near the helm. Look for pictures in the Hints & Tips section.

[hoppy]

I just spent nearly 4 weeks in the Greek islands sailing my SO40 solo. The conditions were tougher than those you get in Melbourne and I survived with my cabin top mainsheet. I just reefed early and deeper than if I had a crew, so that the gusts had less impact. I did round up occasionally but there was nothing and noone to hit so it was no big deal. I was not "racing" anywhere, so the little bit slower progress was no big deal.

I would not mind being able to control the main from the helm, but it is low on my priority list.