by GreenLake » Sat Oct 31, 2009 9:25 am
Because of the class rules, the number of people here interested in persuing certain approaches is more limited. But the topic does come up. You can find a short discussion about asymmetric spinnakers in this forum, if you dig a bit. My DS currently has no spinnaker, and, I've been wondering whether I would benefit from some kind of downwind sail.
However, after reading up on various downwind sails, I'm seriously wondering whether a spinnaker is appropriate for a boat that's not used in races and sailed single-handed much or the time.
Your case is special in that you may not be likely to sell your boat to someone interested in racing it under class rules. You could contemplate cutting a hole in the bow and fitting a sleeve under the deck to install a retractable bowsprit. I wonder how long that would have to be?
Adding some fittings on deck to fix a bowsprit might also be possible. Some kind of ring in front next to the forestay and a U bracket further back on deck.
~ green ~ lake ~ ~