Well, I surf launched for the first time with any real wave height. I didn't break anything and got out on my first crack, so I figure I must have done it close to right.

Typically, Lake Michigan does not have big waves when the wind isn't howling, but on Sunday it was blowing just 10-13 mph but there were good size waves coming in.

Winds were out of the south and the way the beach sits the waves were hitting at about a 45-50 degree angle. I was able to keep the bows pointed into the waves, wait for a lull, jump on and sheet in just before the next one hit. I got enough power in the sail to push through then next wave and the one after that and I was off.

Coming back in was a little trickier because after I jumped off, the boat kept wanting to turn sideways but I was able to get it backed in to the beach.

My hats off to you guys who regularly sail in the waves. I found it tricky to tack and going upwind was pretty rough. I didn't stay out too long.

You really want to see some "Surf Launching" you should watch some of the videos from past Worrell races (or Tybee 500's) as these guys are pretty good at it and even they get crushed at times. There were some Texel videos around too that show how to do it right, and wrong.

Thanks. I'll do a search and see what I can come up with.

I don't have a good handle on the size of the waves I was sailing in. My guess is 3-4 ft with some larger swells. Upwind was like a roller coaster. Down wind, it was more like surfing.

What's the most you will sail in?

That isn't the only consideration. If the wind is light and the waves are coming directly onto the beach, it's hard to build up enough momentum to break through. This is especially true sailing uni.

Sorry, I wasn't clear. I meant after you get out.

I don't think there is any rule for sea state, but the A class limits racing to wind speeds under 22 knots (I think). That would be my limit.

Regarding the pure pleasure of sailing; right after I got the Blade I was at Daytona and the surf was running. . .four feet? +/-. That was pure enjoyment! Surfing under spinnaker is a real treat. IIrc, conditions were pretty mild.

Once your are out, its the sailors boldness, not the boat that sets the limit.

I did the H-18 like jump on a H-16 off a 14 foot roller in 81. It IS a feeling you will never forget. You are TOTALLY weightless for a few seconds then bamm the harness hits. Then up the next one and all over again. MAN I would love to do it again some time.

Doug