by persephone » Tue Jul 27, 2010 6:59 pm
Hi Matt,
I have owned both of the boats (currently on the DS).
The Jav had a split mast (hinge plate above the deck) the DS does not. I raised the jav mast alone, as well as the DS. If you will be alone I would think putting the tabernacle on would be a good idea, unless you are a big tall guy with good upper body strength and coordination. Once you get used to it it really isn't tough.
I have not capsized either boat, come close but never gone the whole way. I have not seen anyone right an overturned DS alone. Never seen an overturned Jav. Best advice I can give is keep the mainsheet in your hand at all times (and make sure the cleat for it faces up... or you will need to push it down out of the cleat with your foot Ask me how I know).
Never used a masthead float, but the principal is sound.
Roller reefing is an owner installed option. I've never had one. The folks I know who do have it love it.
The javelin is a shorter version of the daysailer, yet it weighs almost as much and carries less sail. All that means it is slower. It has a steel centerboard (originals are galvanized and subject to gross corrosion problems be sure to have a good look at it as replacements are near $500) as opposed to the DS's composite. That makes the jav a bit more stable. It really depends on what you are going to use the boat for. Both are fine day cruisers. The DS with it's open cuddy has better storage and access to all parts for maintenance. But that open cockpit is a liability if you do go over as it is a large volume that can fill with water. The jav will fill up too, just not as quick. The bad note on the jav is it's next to impossible to empty the bilge while still in the water.
Try to find someone in your area that has a boat (check the yahoo javelin owner group). See if you can weasel your way into a sail. Most of us are pretty willing to take someone along now and then. If you are anywhere near Wakefield MA I'll take you out in my DS anytime.
Good luck,
Geoff Plante, former DS1 owner
1950(ish) vintage National One Design.