[quote=spfx]Keep the jib on. As Timinaustin mentioned, tacking will become difficult and for someone new to catamarans, you don't need the added frustration. I've sailed my P19 without a jib, it was the first and last time for that experiment. As stated before, sail within your limits at wind speeds below 10 mph. Practice righting the boat with another person until you feel comfortable righting it yourself. Are you well versed on righting techniques? If you get hit by a sudden puff are you going to be able to un-cleat the main quickly? If you sail on a lake (not a large one) and can right the boat solo, there's opportunity to push the envelope harder, go for it. If it's in the open ocean you should seriously consider a lifeline. If you fall off your boat for whatever reason, don't expect it's going to wait for you to get back on. Always use a PFD going solo. When I ocean sail I carry a VHF radio, satellite EPIRB, cellphone, personal strobe and whistle in the zippered pockets of the PFD.
When I set my boat up at the ramp it's easier to hoist the jib on land. I then hand furl it around the forestay securing it with a bungee swinging underneath the bridleand back up to the jib clew. This reduces the winds influence while taking off/on the trailer and that incessant slapping against the mast. For the main, at times you may be tempted to rig in the parking lot under low or no wind conditions. Don't do it, as I nearly flipped my P16 years ago.
It's amazing how much more responsive and light your H16 is without crew and you'll discover the best points of sail will differ. Pop in some earbuds (when appropriate) and play whatever music rocks your boat.
Have a great time![/quote]
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