Can I realistically single hand a 21 SC?

I'm looking to get a bigger boat to suit my expanding family, and theres a 21 Sport Cruiser available nearby. 2/3ds of my sailing days are solo, and I often go out in fairly heavy air (mid 20s). I've sailed 16s, 17s, 18s, the last 10+ years. I'm moderately athletic, but not a hotshot by any means, and not getting any younger.

Safety is most important priority, fun is right up there. In my case, I dont think getting it on and off the trailer is going to be an issue.

Whats the boat like under main alone? Is it practical to reef the main under rough conditions? Realistic for a 200# guy to right with a pole and shroud extenders?

Thanks for any advice....

Tom

Sailing single handed - No problem
Dragging it off the trailer and up the beach - Big problem

Very heavy

Solo righting a big boat can be a big problem, too. You'll likely need a pole or some such like maybe water bags. Make sure you can do it reliably. True solo sailing a beach cat is dangerous altogether. True solo is when you are alone on the boat and the only boat in sight. This can be a common situation depending on when and where you sail. Sailing with other boats around (especially other cats)is much safer.

Jimbo

The nice thing about that boat is the abilty to reef the main. There's a crank that turns the boom rolling the sail onto it. Add the motor and you have a nice family boat that you can do a lot with.

A motor ? Yuk, Blehhrrrr, Gross.
After that get rid of one hull and add a refrigerator.

I agree with all comments.

Solo sailing shouldn't be a problem, but launching and righting are real concerns. Check the weight: this boat IS heavy.

Luiz

Yes. Get it. I was able to set up and break down my 21 SE solo. I had one of those solo mast raiser deelee squats and a winch on the trailer. Never had a PROBLEM.