J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum The Boat, Sails and Equipment concerns with older j30

Actually if you are extended cruising, the 163 isn't a bad sail to have if you are trying to cover distance. I use a very "mature" 163 for cruising - well past its useful race life. The downside is when the wind starts to build, there isn't a lot of rail meat onboard. I had to put my daughter on the helm while I went forward to change to the #3. She wasn't a happy camper....

The #1 is good to keep speed for a broad reach without putting up a spinnaker. We did some 50 mile days cruising this summer.

A dodger is highly recommended for comfort while cruising too. Keeps you dry from spray if it is rough, can provide some limited shade, and allows you to keep the companionway open for a breeze while preventing rain / dew from entering the cabin.