What about cockpit comfort?

Posted By: Paul Germain, Santana 2023 C, Fresno
Date: 9/16/07 7:56a.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: Traveler on C model (Mark Welch)

In all of the discussions regarding travelers, there hasn't been any mention of "cockpit comfort". The original placement of the main sheet was designed to open up the cockpit to allow crew members to easily move about. It also allowed for setting up a bunk in the cockpit. It also helped to keep the main sheet from whapping people. My main sheet attaches to Schock's optional wrap-around full stern rail about one foot above the stern. This keeps the sheet well above the tiller and completely out of the way of crew members. I find very little loss in performance. However, I do not race, so I am not particular in regard to finely tuned sails. I don't know what it would presently cost for owners to install a traditional full stern rail like the one that Schock provided as a "deluxe" version for the 2023, but I think it is worth looking in to. I know Schock used to sell them for around $700. This was well worth it, considering the fact that the full rail allowed the main sheet to be situated aft and above crew members' heads, came with a built in ladder, offered a way to secure the mast post used for trailering, offered a platform for attaching a barbecue, offered a platform for attaching a solar panel, and made sailing safer.