sailing test

Hi

We just took out my son's elegant punt Creamsicle for a sailing test. I
made the rudder and leeboard according to plan, but we used an old homemade
canoe sail -- lateen, cut dead flat, and only 2/3 of PCB's designed sail
area. I figured it showed any promise with this, I'd go ahead on the proper
mast and sail.

The test was a total success!! We started with a very light wind, which
grew into a good 10 knots or so before dying again. With a poorly cut and
too small sail, she worked to windward well, and even managed quite a
respectable speed on a reach, with a combined crew weight of 300 pounds
(respectable for an eight foot pram, that is).

She's definitely worth a real sail -- and I guess I'll paint the rudder and
leeboard after all!

Jamie Orr

PS Its possible to "motor sail" too, the leeboard doesn't interfere with
rowing.