Submitted on November 3, 2005 by Stephen Phillips

Question: I am looking for a 20 year old 40' full keel boat to cruise the coast of Maine. Is a ketch rig a practical single-hand solution with today's modern sails? Are the retrofit mast furling systems more problematic than practical, even if new sails are used? Does a center cockpit facilitate sail handling? I am interested in a simple, efficient, reliable sail plan.

Thank you,
Stephen Phillips

Answer: Any boat in good working condition can be single handed. However, the features that you listed are not particularly common choices for experienced single handed sailors. You might find that a full keep boat has a lot of weather helm, which makes the autopilot work harder. The mizzen mast on a ketch rig won't add any benefits for the sailing you describe. Behind the mast mainsail furling systems don't work particularly well and the sail size and shape need to be compromised. Finally, center cockpits allow for nice aft cabins, but do not contribute to better sailing or sail handling.

Sorry, but the boat you described is not the best choice for single-handed sailing.

Regards,
Dan Neri

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