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One of the questions I've had about F16, could I manage in white caps as well as I have learned to do on H16 solo?


Yes. I do so. But I always say that it is best to get up there in smaller steps. The F16 rig can be quite powerful when not trimmed right and the boat only weights 110 kg, if you loose your footing then she will accellerate from under you or you will be waterskiing along side her. Once you work out how to depower the rig properly then she will become quite calm and will be easy to sail solo even in big winds. Spinnaker sailing (solo) is the same. Just plan a path towards those extreme conditions with small steps and learn each step. Personally, after about a season of sailing I started to sail her solo in all conditions and pull the spinnaker in all conditions as well. I did work my way upthere through various intermediate stages. It can be done and with some commitment it can even be done quite rapidly.

Wouter


Wouter Hijink
Formula 16 NED 243 (one-off; homebuild)
The Netherlands