Since the economy tanked in 2008 many people are downsizing. Whether it is moving to a smaller home or buying a less expensive and more fuel efficient car, it is a trend you see everywhere and sailing is no exception. Today we came across this article on www.sailingscuttlebutt.com from Geoffrey Emanuel which caught our interest. Geoffrey downsized as well. He got a smaller boat which was a lot easier to sail and...well, I guess you should just read the rest...

"I recently moved from Maine to Texas and race on a lake outside of Dallas. I sold my fully equipped PHRF 30 footer with a full complement of racing sails. I bought a used Capri 22 that came with just a main and roller furling jib. Initially, I planned to replace the roller furler with a wire headstay and

acquire a new genoa, working jib and an asymmetric chute. My mental state was unchanged from my longstanding approach to the sport: gear the new boat up to its full PHRF racing potential.

The first time I raced my boat, I marvelled how easy everything was. I only had to hoist and flake one sail. I could race the boat with as little as one other person. I could relax a little on the downwind legs now that there was no chute to set, jibe and douse. In subsequent races, I increasingly enjoyed

the lack of complexity, not having to manage a large crew and deal with exponentially higher expenses.

I think I'm sailing better too. Having a lot less to think about, I can concentrate on getting better starts and on the tactical side. Less crew means less weight. Though I need a spinnaker to be competitive downwind, I am not very excited about giving up those blissful downwind legs!

Most handicap and one-design racing has become a lot more complex, expensive and intense. I have always considered myself a very competitive sailor and had always enjoyed the entire process. My new experience has changed me. I conclude that everyone ought to try a simpler, less complex approach to sailing and see what it does for your overall sailing psyche, as well as your results.

I highly recommend it"

Geoffrey Emanuel

This article really nails down what sailing should be all about. No fuzz or our deep pockets, just pure sailing pleasure. We at Scandinavian Cruisers strive to offer you yachts that are affordable, manageable and that bring back the excitement of sailing.

Happy sailing,


Haye Kesteloo