Daniel Smith
Hi folks,
That is me just registered on here. I am near Largs in Scotland and have a few questions. The boat would mainly be used for cruising and a bit of racing and I’d want a fin keel version.
Does anybody launch their boat themselves on a slip?
How well does the Sonata cope with living on a mooring? Is the bow cleat up to the job or will it need reinforcement. It would probably be in the Fairlie area.
Can the mast be stepped by hand with a few strong guys on a calm day or is it crane up only?
Does anyone know of any local trailers for sale? The only way I can afford to do this is if I can winter it in my back garden.
I think that is all for now.
Cheers,
Dan
Peter Booth
Hi Dan,
Murray has answered most of your questions but I would like to add the following. In the early days I think most of the Sonatas were launched from their cradles although i would imagine that it would have to be in deep water to get the keel clear of the cradle otherwise it is a very narrow slot at the rear of the cradle to get the keel through. As Murray has pointed out he launches from the trailer at Cove but his tariler is designed such that it can be launched straight off.
There is a boat at Helensburgh ( Red Hot Poker) which in the past has an excellent racing record but it has been neglected a bit in recent years but it is on a good trailer and has a new mast and rigging. It is not advertised anywhere but if you wish the owners details I can pass them to you.
Regards
Peter
murray caldwell
Hi Dan,
I launch my sonata down our slip at cove sailing club no problem, there is also no problem with living on a mooring some use both cleats but i have never bothered. Two reasonably strong folk can do the mast quite easily..
Regards
Murray
P.S I know of a boat with trailer/cradle combie in Gourock for sale if you want the owners details?