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My take is . . . (mph)
~3 - 5 ... tests your low wind skills
~5 - 8 ... leisure float
~8 - 12 ... good no-stress sailing
~12 - 18 ... in the groove
~18 - 24 ... kick'n it
>24 ... skill required to sail well rises geometrically (so does the threat of equipment failure)
IMHO, high wind can be sailed merely by sheer guts and deeper pockets for repairs, but lower wind speed takes the highest degree of skill.
Beaufort Wind Scale - developed in 1805 by Sir Francis Beaufort of England.How can I gauge wind speeds? I live on a small lake, in a mountainous area - so local weather predictions may be only moderately accurate for my micro-climate. Is there some trick to checking how a flag is catching breeze, or how a ribbon floats in the wind?
Never Mind ... I see it's listed in your profile. D'OHWhere's your lake? ... State, County, nearest town.I live on a small lake, in a mountainous area - so local weather predictions may be only moderately accurate for my micro-climate.
1) I've solved the "awareness-factor" while sailing recumbent within the cockpit, but will have to wait to post the photograph I have of the solution.Everybody agrees that 6 mph is just about perfect for a beginner. But please do sit on the deck of the boat and not in the cockpit, so that you will be aware of other boats, swimmers, and most importantly, the wind.
The next best thing would be a "Weather Rock"—hanging by a string
Being right at the lake, you might want to look into installing a weather station at your home.Am on Warren Lake
Log onto windfinder.com
If your lake is not in the database, you can contact them and ask to have yours added.
To me 6 knots of wind is a perfect day for sitting in the cockpit with your legs hanging over the side and gently floating along. Although not as exilerating as 12-15knots its an enjoyable experience in itself. No need to worry about capsizing so you can sit back and enjoy the scenery. At low windspeed you still need to be observant of the wind direction to get the most performance from your sail. Have fun you shouldn't have any trouble.
Edward
I am a beginner, only had my sunfish out one time. Weather calling for 6 mph winds tomorrow. Is that suitable for me???
What window do I need to stay in as for as wind speed??? And how much windspeed is required to even be able to sail?
Now, for my sunblock, camera, sponge, bug-spray and telescoping paddle, why doesn't somebody manufacture a fiberglass drawer that fits snuggly into the Sunfish cubby?
Sit well forward and very still, watch the trim of your sail constantly, heal a bit to cut through wakes (avoids being pounded to a halt), jibe around rather than come about ( keeps momentum up).thanks. I agree that being out in very light winds is quite enjoyable. Are there any secrets to get as much out of a light breeze as possible?