Hi,

 

The leeway is not my primary concern. I am worried about steering. I have heard several mentions about Blind Date and also about Sidecar, that they lose steering control, can't shunt, or head uncontrollably up into the wind before their rudders were enlarged, moved, etc.

 

I don't see the advantage of a shallow draft boat if I need to have my rudders down 5' in order to steer. I have been trying to find out if this is just a problem when the boats are overpowered, or strong winds or something, but no one has admitted to that, so I am worried that I won't be able to sail in less than 4-5 feet of water. I will be able to drag my boat up near the beach, but the last mile will have to be done under power.

 

- Gardner
There are a number of ways to reduce draft for shallow water.  Telescoping rudders (similar to the mast) is one of the things on my to do list.  With rudders clear of the hull, it is pretty easy to do.  Draggier when down, but maybe this is a payable price for the shallow draft.  I have sailed El off a lee shore without any rudders (series of big swoops and aggressive sheeting) so it can be done.  Even easier with a schooner.