much to consider
Hi all,
Modern unstayed masts (of the composite variety) are best considered at the design stage and by an owner with deep pockets.
A conversion, likely undertaken directly by the owner or with help, on a modest budget, must carefully weigh the pros & cons. Common boat designs usually do not have the necessary beam stability in the bows to acccomodate a single unstayed mast. So right away you must consider a split rig, most likely ketch or schooner type. You must also consider upgrading cabin/deck structures as the load at the partners will be significantly higher. If you are unprejudiced and do not require the windward abilities that most skippers expect then the junk is probably highest on the list to consider. It is a good cruising rig and can be the least expensive of all rig & sail systems.
For the canal boat, I believe the unstayed rig is less desirable than a deck-stepped split rig. For the simple fact of being able to raise and lower the masts, of a deck-stepped, without shoreside facilities. (An unstayed mast must be keel stepped.)
A few simple practices can eliminate the devastation of an uncontrolled gybe. End boom sheeting, use of a preventor and do not sail directly down-wind (at night especially) with inattentive or inexperienced crew. At night, broad reach in the trades because a squall can arrive unexpectedly (harder to see) so you can accomplish instant sail reduction by easing the main, sailing off the wind some more and blanket the jib in the lee of the main. The preventer is still rigged such that a standing gybe, if it occurs, is caught and can become a controlled gybe.
Good thread guys, cheers
Russ L
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