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Kinney, Don't be embarrassed by capsizing! It's a normal part of dinghy sailing and we all do it occasionally. Even the "rock stars". The flotation in the mast and at the head definitely do help!
I wouldn't suggest exposing yourself to nuclear radiation so that you can grow another arm. I can suggest some things that will make single-handing easier though.
First of all, know your limitations. If you're not comfortable out there in a particular set of conditions, not only will it be unsafe, but you'll also have no fun.
Secondly, keep both the main sheet and the jibsheet handy at all times. I keep one draped over each lap so that I always know where they are when I need to grab them. I tend to keep the jib cleated, the main in my forward hand and the tiller extension in the other hand. If a big gust comes and you need to reduce pressure and heel, you can do so either by heading up or easing the main. The jib can be readjusted when you're back in control. To tack, just uncleat the jib, turn the boat and re-trim the jib on the other side. It doesn't have to be a perfect racing tack, but at least the big stick will be pointing skyward!
The trick to ensuring that the boat doesn't sail away from you when you get it right-side-up, is to release all the sheets from their cleats on all the sails so that they will luff when the boat is righted. (There is generally no need to release the halyards, though! To do so, only creates more havoc. Do this only as a last resort!) The boat can't sail away then. It may drift with the waves and wind, though. You also want to turn the boat so that the bow is directly into the wind before righting it. You may have to swim it around to this position.
Finally, the easiest and best way to climb into the boat once it's right-side-up, is to climb over the transom. Others have suggested simple rope loops that can be fixed on one of the transom eyes to help you step in.
The anchor idea is OK but the chances that it will fall to the bottom with out getting tangled and then set properly, I think, are small. If you do as I suggest, the boat will not go far.
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Boston Whaler Harpoon Forum
Question On Spinnaker -- Durango Dave -- 11/12/06 8:01p.m.
Spinnaker -- WAYNE, '79 5.2, OCALA, FL -- 11/13/06 5:08p.m.
-- Gene Bragalone - #485/5.2 -- 11/14/06 9:15a.m.
-- Jenny, Harpoon 5.2 -- 11/15/06 5:54a.m.
capsizing tips -- Jay Levy - Indianapolis, IN 5.2 #35 -- 11/22/06 1:23p.m.
-- Jay Levy - Indianapolis, IN 5.2 #35 -- 11/23/06 7:47a.m.