mistral

Question
Really enjoy reading your posts and learned a lot. Like others, returning to w/surfing at 50after many years off and teaching my teens. Using a 12 -14 yo board w/centerboard, but wondering about the next step. Found a local seller w/ circa 2001 mistral 150 litre, no centerboard. Live on a BIG lake so winds go from calm to 20 easily with significant swell. Look forward to your thoughts, thanks.

Answer
Hey Kevin,

Most of the newer boards, even a 2001 are quite a bit wider and a bit shorter than earlier boards. They are much more stable and because of the width, a lower volume board will actually float a bit more weight than a similar size old board. You didn't mention your size but if you are under 200lbs, a 150ltr board should float you well enough for rope starting. A 150ltr board may be a bit much in 20mph winds but for anything below that it should work well for you. As your abilities grow, you should be able to handle up to 20 or more with ease.

Sailing without a daggerboard will be a bit of a challenge if it is new to you. If the winds are light to moderate, have your mast in a forward position to help with upwinding and to help keep your weight centered on the board. Staying upwind without a daggerboard is a combination of sail and board technique. Keep your mast fairly upright and using foot pressure, tip the windward rail into the water.

For some great technical info check out windsurfingmag.com under instruction. Read all the info on beginner and intermediate. Most of this information is geared to the newer style wide boards so you should be able to glean a lot of helpful tips.

Hope this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover