Trip Log: Return to the California Channel Islands

Step 40: Cockpit and Rudder

I was sitting on one of my lifejackets for padding. Without the padding the raised cockpit lip tended to cut off circulation to my legs. You can see the kickup rudder and push-tiller arrangement. The rudder has a wooden arm that sticks out sideways. Another long stick attaches to that arm with a universal joint made from an innertube lashing. Two lines from the rudder run forward to that rear crossbeam. One line lowers the rudder, and the other raises it. A wrapping of innertube around those lines keeps them from sliding by accident, but lets the rudder rock up if it hits something.