Sunday, 28June2015, James Island to Skyline

Weather:  Sunny turning to overcast.  Winds: 0-5 becoming stronger and gusty.  Waves:  <1ft.

First sail post refit.

Day dawned bright and sunny.  Had 2 solar amps going into the batteries by 0700!  Took a couple strolls on the island and chatted with a couple of folks and learned about the camp visiting raccoons inhabiting the island.  About 1000, readjusted the starboard ama and pushed, touring counter clockwise around the island.  Dipped into the west cove, checking out the boats and anchoring possibilities.  Guide books say it is a tricky anchorage, locals say because of strong currents.

Departed around the south side of the island and headed east towards Skyline.  About a mile into Rosario, vicinity of Belle Rock light, winds picked up enough to give sailing a try.  Up went the main!

With about 5kts of wind, made about 3.2kts on a reach.  Enough to put some pressure on the port ama and ease the pressure on the starboard.  Both looked good!  Decided to up the pressure by turning more into the wind.  With 8kts wind apparent and making 3.8kts, everything still looked good.  However, Strider does not like pointing without the jib, just not enough balance and she wants to head up into the wind more.  So, unfurled the jib and made 4kts.  Amas still looked good!  Turned to a beam reach, keeping the sails depowered.  Made 4.5kts.  While not flying, the starboard ama was really unweighted and the waterstays did not sag.  Port side looked solid, with no grunts or groans or moans!

Granted, very benign conditions, exactly what I wanted for first tests, but all looked good!  Next step is to check the tension again as the dyneema will continue to settle into its tensioned position.  Then, just keep pushing the envelope...bit by bit.