Yes, George, I originally mentioned both

Posted By: Gary, Santana 2023, Milwaukee
Date: 2/27/08 6:53p.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: Hasn't anyone noticed Peter's 2023 having one? (nm) (link) (GEN, Santana 2023A-Tall, SE Michigan)

Ray's site, and also that I'd spoken with Peter. I liked how Ray mounted his on tracks, so as to slide it forward while sailing (clear the mainsheet), then slid aft when on the hook, hove to, whatever. Peter likes his a lot, but has his mounted, AS I RECALL HIM EXPLAINING IT, far forward as it must clear his traveler mainsheet. So, sounds like it might not do anything for me. I must admit, I like the look of the things. Would like to have one on those 2 or 3 cruises I take each summer, even if just a short hop over to Muskegan to see David, the bimini would be nice. But, otherwise, the thing appears to be FAR to 'far' in the way to have mounted 24/7, and also to space cumbersome to keep stowed in the cabin. I suppose I could simply keep it in the garage, take it and mount it to the boat immediately prior to a cruise... But I sail in heavy air a lot, up into the lower-to-mid 30 knot winds. Don't really think it'd be nice to have the thing mounted, even if collapsed and lashed, in that type of air. But, like I said, maybe this thing IS 'The bomb!' I just don't think I want to shell out that kind of money to 'see' if it's worth buying. After all, the tarp IS paid for, LOL's!!! I mean, MOUNTED, (and 'opened') how much does it impede your speed to and from the cockpit? And even if 'closed', also, this is cumbersome aluminum piping in the way, also easily bendable during 'accidents' during heavy air/seas. Hmm... maybe I'll just check out and see if I can determine the size of the thing when wrapped up. Perhaps it might (somewhat) easily stow on ONE SIDE of the V-berth?? Anyone know the answer to that?