Just picked my first windsurfer, a JP Funride 140 litre. Hoping to use it heaps of course. Had my first session at Sandringham Harbour yesterday and went ok. I'm wondering how strong a winds I should go out in with a 6metre sail? I weigh 66kgs, and just of average ability as a beginner. Approx when do I need to use a smaller sail and what size to get? Wasn't game to go out this afternoon (25knots plus) but may have if I had a smaller sail.

I use my 6.5 up to around 20 knots but as a beginner I would probably limit that to around the 15 knot mark until you get a little more experience. If you are game you can alway try pulling on a lot more downhaul and trying it up to 20.
If you are going to get a smaller sail, go for maybe 4.8 - 5m for those days of 20knots +.

Welcome to your new addiction

Thanks for that. I will have a look around this site for a smaller sail and down at SHQ. I can see myself beginning to dig the money pit.

Hey waggles56 welcome to the new money pit. At this stage as you are learning I would limit your outings to under 20 kts. You will find the 140ltr board will get a bit ungamely and hard to control in 18 kts plus. It will lift and twist and be a little like a bucking bronco. As you get more competent I would look at a smaller fin and a 5 mtr sail but when it gets over 20 kts you seriously need to get a smaller board.(110 - 120 ltr)

Thanks Old Salty. I won't rush out and buy a smaller sail this morning so I can go out this arvo if it's over 20kts. I'm too impatient but I had better get used to it.

Good to hear more people are taking up windsurfing. While your learning avoid going out in offshore days. You can go out in strong winds with your 6mtr once you get the hang of it but as said your board will be difficult to control in over 25 knts. It's also difficult to uphaul in strong winds so learn to waterstart and it will be alot easier.

Nice to see other beginners in this area as well! probably will see u around Hampton beach soon

Yeah there seems to be a few beginners in Sandy Harbour. I'm the old, bald guy with grey goatie. (Gee, I sound scarry!) I will need a few more sessions before I venture the big 200 metre trip to Hampton.