Be sure to note that the boat will be A LOT harder to right from capsized in calm conditions. For practice, flip the boat in a moderate 10-12knt breeze to practice. The wind will actually help the righting of the boat....the more wind, the easier the boat rights.
Uh, perhaps when the angle of the boat/sails are optimal for righting in the wind?
I mean, what if the wind is pushing on to the bottom of the tramp?
When it's pushing on the top of the tramp, better be hanging on the windward dolphin striker, eh?
Mast floats are the mark of a flunkie, if you want to sail and everyone stays away from you- put a mast float up there
Sounds like you're going about it well.
Never thought of reefing and smaller jibs like the monosluggers do- I just sheet/downhaul the SHEET oout of everything and feather up a bit.
Going with smaller sail area in the heavier stuff sounds like a good plan!
