[MHml] Rigging an asymmetric spinnaker

[Peter Lillywhite]

Having successfully sorted the white sails this year my next focus will be a
new spinnaker. Currently we are using a very old (see Erik Lerouge’s Azuli
history page on his web site for the actual sail) symmetrical spinnaker that
is only any good running deep. I feel the replacement needs to be an
asymmetric reacher (approx. TWA 80-130) but able to be flown deep in
stronger winds.
            Most modern cats have bowsprits (prodders) but Azuli’s were
designed without, so any sprit would involve additional structural work to
transfer the loads. This has implications regarding additional weight
forward and practical disadvantages relating to mooring and anchoring to a
bridle. As an alternative I propose to rig an adjustable tack strop from the
spin tack on to a block carried by the existing spinnaker guys that run
through blocks at each bow. This would enable the tack to be moved up to
windward for sailing deep and to leeward for reaching. The tail of the
adjustable tack could be used to tension the luff when close reaching in
light winds. Gybing would have to be done outside the luff. To give an idea
of the loads involved our Azuli is 11.8m long x 6.5m wide with a 15m mast
and a sailing weight of 5000kgs. I expect the sail area to be in the region
of 110 to 115sq m.
            We are looking for a system that will improve light airs
reaching (<10 TWS) and make handling easier downwind for a typical crew of
two. The use of a Bamar RollGen is being considered.
            Any thoughts and comments are sought to help plan this next
project.

                        Many thanks in anticipation.

                                                            Peter.
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