Obviously I've been following this thread with interest since we are in the final stages of taking
delivery of our new deamboat an A57. I've been in communication with Chris and he sent me the following. I mentioned that there was a lot of chatter and some negative and highly speculative comments but he's not familiar with (nor a
member of) this message board so I'm forward his reply. As some of you know, Chris is a very thoughtful and I'd say brilliant
multihull designer. I think if you read the articles on his website you will see that he's taking a very responsible approach to helping all sailors learn from this experience by adding to the body of knowledge from this unfortunate incident. Imho, exactly what a great
designer should do.
Agility
* * *
This is the emailed response I received from Chris White:
"The unfortunate recent
accident of the the Atlantic 57, Anna, has the
internet chat boards buzzing with comments from both experienced and armchair sailors alike.
"There is no doubt that the Atlantic 57 is a powerful, high performance cruising
catamaran. Like any sailboat with excellent performance in light and medium winds it needs to have sail reduced in strong winds. Every competent sailor understands this.
"What is most important now is to take the opportunity, while everyone is paying attention, to examine in some detail how accidents of this type can be prevented. And further, how we might improve designs to allow for better survival of the crew should capsize occur.
"Two essays, a
weather analysis and some other pertinent information is presented at the following link.
"Thoughtful comments from
multihull sailors are always welcome. Flamethrowers can get a
boat and go sailing
offshore, then we'll talk."
[signed] CW [Chris White]