I couldn't wait to get the boat in the water and give her a try.  Without bulwarks, funnels, masts or other superstructure she had a very low center of gravity and was not effected by the wind.  She looks better now with the bulwarks and most of the superstructure in place.  She still handles well, though she is blown about by the wind a bit more.

So, this is what it's like with the top down.