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Permission to Come Aboard

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2017 7:29 pm
by dreamcruiser
Hi PDQ Owners,
I have been researching cruising catamarans and have a keen interest in learning more about the PDQ models. Specifically I'm interested learning more about the models with the twin outboards and any enhancements you might have made to make single handing possible. I was hoping to find any one of you who might be in the vicinity of Oriental NC around July 29 to 31 and would be willing to let my wife and me come aboard for a look-see.

Re: Permission to Come Aboard

Posted: Thu Jul 20, 2017 10:41 pm
by thinwater
I'm in Deale MD, some distance away.

Singlehanding is easy to learn. One of the advantages of catamarans, in general, is that the sails are smaller for a given amount of living space. The level deck also makes moving about underway safer. Finally, twin engines make docking easier, since fewer hands are needed to handle lines.

As it would happen, mine is for sale.
http://sail-delmarva.blogspot.com/p/pdq ... -sale.html

Re: Permission to Come Aboard

Posted: Fri Jul 21, 2017 4:34 pm
by Allie-May
I'm in Titusville, Fl so unfortunately can't help you out with a tour.

Running the boat singlehanded just takes some practice and is certainly doable. I like having my lines ran to the cockpit but with the stability of the boat if you have to go to the mast it isn't a big deal. Obviously auto-pilot is needed while playing with the sails. A helper with docking is certainly nice to have but not needed; just don't tell my wife. Twin engines, a little practice, and a plan is all you need.

Practice on a calm day just backing in and out of your slip a bunch of times with help till you get the hang of it. If this is your first catamaran then you don't need the wheel/rudders while docking; just use the engines. Practice turning the boat in place with just the engines in open water. Also, don't go to slow. The high thrust engines can start/stop the boat pretty quickly but can't do much to help you if the wind/current starts pushing you sideways into your neighbor.