My concern is that I am almost always single-handing my boat and I have read that the J30 needs to have 5 bodies on the rail after 15 knots of wind. Could I just reef as I do with my J24?
I'm brand new to your class forum -- which is great and quite informative, thank you!!
I'm researching for a possible purchase a 30' keel boat and am seeking advice. I've owned a J24 with a trailer for nearly 14 years. My primary sailing is single-handed daysailing [no racing] -- although I usually have others on the boat, I am doing all the sailiing. Although I have very few complaints with my 1981 J24, I would like to obtain something larger as I anticipate docking in Chicago and will need shore power so I can add a portable air conditioner for sleeping. I also am finding that my cockpit on my J24 is not large enough now that i've added a auto tiller pilot. I've cosidered a J29 and am am now leaning toward a J30. I like to move in light air, have some stability in a heavy breeze, and able to reach well. My budget is just enough to maintain a boat of this size along with the dock/mooring fees in Chicago -- for a new-to-me boat, my budget is $15,000 or less. I am generally out on my J24 four nights a week; I have never cruised. Any thoughts...I am anticipating a purchase this winter or next.
By the way, great class forums!! I've enjoyed reading and learning!
