I finished my NE Dory build about a month ago and had it out several times for rowing trips, but I have not had the opportunity to get out to try the sloop sail rig until today! I have never sailed before so I was cautious about picking a protected local reservoir near Park City, Utah and a day with light winds. I launched with some clumsy sheet and line handling, but soon sorted that out. I have read several sailing books and scoured the internet for lessons and tips on how tack and jibe. Fortunately all went well.
I am really impressed by the stability and forgiving nature of the NE dory. I did spring for the extra $$ to get the sloop upgrade kit. I think this was money well spent, especially the swiveling cam cleats for the jib lines. This made it easier to concentrate on the rudder and mainsail.
After this first sail I have several adjustments that I need to do, like tighten the shroud lines, and put some leather on the bottom of the tiller extension to prevent rail rubbing.
One great thing about the day was meeting local sailing people who manage a sailing club with lessons! I plan to sign up so I can really learn how to do this proper.
Some intial picks below.
I am hooked!
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/i2FWgVY5uJrwQyegbcwgjHSyVepnF91SaYZ2b-7Z7Q=w590-h786-no
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EeDoefnDWB_A0xQy64zRk_PzTRHVjtqDovn-OH0wUQ=w935-h702-no
