[quote=cbb]Hi Pete
I don't need to launch often, but when I do, I usually raise the jib on the trailer, fasten the sheets and tie it off real well (poor mans roller furling). My Nacra has a zippered luff and is a real pain to raise from the dock, leaning over the boat, Etc. Main goes up on the dock. With fluky winds like you describe, I would be nervous about having the main up at all while on the trailer. Whole lot easier for your wife to control while you're parking the car as well. Do this stuff long enough, and eventually your "worst case" scenario WILL happen - best to prepare for it.
On the subject of worst case scenarios - be really, really careful anytime you leave the car to help push the boat off the trailer. lots of folks have found out the hard way about bad parking brakes, slipping transmissions, Etc. I chock the wheel every time "just in case." That worst case scenario thing again....
For sure, get a paddle!. Long canoe paddle - you can strap it anywhere. Honestly, I've thought about getting oars from time to time (I used to have a Tartan 30 with big 'ol sweeps I'd use to row out of crowded anchorages). Bet I could row my 5.7 up to 6 knots or so. Once you've had to dog paddle home 2 miles when the wind drops to nothing you'll never go out again without one.
Cb[/quote]
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