2012-12-12; 13:45:24 EST
Member Since
2002-09-17
Posts: 4946
Jim, I sail in South Carolina on an inland lake and have zero experience with ice bergs, but I can tell you that everything gets very stiff in cold weather including the sails until the sun warms them up. Also, pay special attention to the moisture that will freeze to the cockpit sole. It is extremely slippery and will remain that way until it melts. Dress in layers as you will probably be taking some clothing off if the day warms up. I've actually been down to shorts and a T shirt by noon down here. (January) The cockpit with the white sides reflects a lot sunlight and will warm you quickly. I actually like sailing during the winter months because of a lack of other boat traffic except for a really infrequent fisherman. Hot beverages to start the day and then some good rum for anti freeze for the system. Also, it really starts to get cold the minute the sun goes beneath the horizon. Rummy In a message dated 12/12/2012 12:29:47 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, jdewaa01 at gmail.com writes: Soon to be owner here. Some of us don't always get the chance to sail in fair weather. Living in the northeast, my season may stretch into late fall, even winter or begin in early spring and include some sub freeezing temperatures. Does anyone have experience sailing in the Rhodes when it is really cold? Other than dodging icebergs, a concern is iced up furling system. I may not make a habit of it, but I'll try anything once.... well almost anything. JimSee the original archive post