That's where mine are fitted, just under the thwart.

I cannot comment on reefing either because I too have bermudan rig. I have a cut down main for very windy days, and a variety of jibs (all class legal) The Heron sails very well under reduced rig with very little speed loss in windy conditions. That matters to me because I do race.

Because of restrictions imposed on the manning of the safety boat following the Covid 19 pandemic, our club has implemented a rule that all boats must have mast head floats min 4litres. This rule has been very effective in minimising inversions and thus masts stuck in the mud. (inland water approx 2.5 - 3m depth) This means you have a fighting chance of righting the boat without assistance, though, of course, the boat will drift with the wind. this is not a problem for us because our water is enclosed although large (approx 100 acres) I"m sure that the float makes some difference to the efficiency of the sail, but because it's the same for everyone, racing is unaffected.

Dear David, Thank you very much for the clarification, which is much as I expected. Unfortunately, some traditional sailmakers appear to be still using the older template which gives a main well within class limits, but does not take full advantage of this definition. Perhaps we need to be aware, and to check with sailmakers before ordering new sails. Caveat Emptor, as ever. Best Regards John Topliss 10345

Hi Peter and Ruth, It was good to see you last weekend, and your new sails look really good. The classic way to measure widths is to mark half, quarter, and three quarter position on the luff by folding the sail from head to tack and then again along the luff, then repeating the process along the leach. Then all you have to do is join the dots. I hope that helps. Best Wishes John (10345 Hetty Ketty)

Yes, they will work, though probably not in very light conditions. Still, you probably won’t need them then. I have two balers fitted on my boat 10345, and had cause to use them only last week following a clumsy capsize ( my fault entirely) By the way, in the right conditions , a Heron will plane with the best of them.