Hi



Well Santa thinks I've been very good and is thinking of treating me to a Starboard Express package at 900 quid choosing a 6.5 sail. What I should tell you is that I havn't sailed a board for 15 years. I still have my old 335 sailboard and non-fully batterned sails however it has seen better days. I was able to waterstart it if exhaustion didn't take over first and the wind was just right. My son is now 13 can't sail yet but may want to have a go so I guess I'll buy a used 4-4.5m sail. I need all the kit so if you've got any advice I'd be greatful.

some kiddy and trainer sails on ebay just now

Thanks Scotty but I'm so far out of the loop I don't really fancy the auctions and classifieds. I'm OK with budget just having sold a larger boat. I guess what I'm asking is are Starboard boards good? The blurb seems to say they cover a huge range of sailing abilities would you guys agree? I've been reading the comments on cold weather gear and thats been useful and proably saved me some cash. A 6.5 sail would have been a pig 15-20 years ago in all but light airs now they say new sails are a dream to handle is there any one who can confirm this? Would I be better off with F2? Don't fancy a Bic - should I ?

edited by: keithd, Dec 07, 2003 - 08:23 AM

Keith, I'd recommend the starboard carve as a really good allrounder. I sail the 130ish one and have no probs from 4m through to 8m. Great board for planing and maneouvres. Tough as nails too (well i'm yet to succeed in knocking the nose off despite many a good attempt...the blue paint does chip off easily though if that kind of thing bothers you!).

Suze do you mainly sail offshore? I get the impression that the Carve is salt water _base_d. Am I wrong? I try to keep to flat water. The Broads are a bit muddy but the N Sea can be leathal down here unless you're organised with buddies. Family commitments mean I have to take the oppertunities when they come. Nice to know the boards are tough.

edited by: keithd, Dec 07, 2003 - 05:18 PM

Keith, I mainly sail inland. The carve is perfect for flat water. I weigh 70kgs if that comes into your equation.