Why Didn't I Think of That? Gee Whiz Sailboat Innovations
"If you have always done it that way, it is probably wrong." -Charles Kettering When I dig down deep, I'm a crusty old salt and I like my boats that way too. Some that are nearest and dearest to me are full keel double-enders that are slow and porky. In fact, here's a list of some of my all-time favorites. Still, I have to admit there's also something appealing about new innovative designs and features, which is what this post is all about. But before we get to the real topic, indulge in a little nostalgia from the good ole days of bluewater cruising; Remember when "Westsail the World" was a slogan that stirred the soul and beckoned you to go beyond the horizon in search of coconut palms, blue lagoons, and a simple life at sea? Neither do I, but only because I was born in 1975 and Westsail had already been building and marketing their 32-footer for several years prior. Production cruising sailboats were on the rise and simple, salty designs