Asymetric Spinnaker for Multihull

[Billslot]

Can someone tell me if it is possible to fly an asymetric spinnaker on a cat without using a bowsprit. ie having the tack adjustable and set between the two bows.

[Factor]

Originally Posted by Billslot

Can someone tell me if it is possible to fly an asymetric spinnaker on a cat without using a bowsprit. ie having the tack adjustable and set between the two bows.

Yes. Easy as. On my boat tack line is a bridle to two blocks one on each bow then back to cockpit - so you can adjust tack position easy. Attached photo almost shows this.

[2Wind]

As Factor says....
My 155 sqm ASI is set with three tack lines, one each to the respective bows and one to the prodder (should I want to run tighter to the wind in lighter conditions). Deep down wind at say150-170, it is a distinct advantage to have the luff all the way over to the windward bow as it maintains better sail shape being a little more out from the main's draught.
Also, if I'm short handed and don't have an extra hand for the ASI, I'll set the Screecher on the bow rather than the prodder for deep down wind sailing for the same reason.

[FLLCatsailor]

You'll notice that most cruising cats don't even how sprits, but still fly their cruising chutes. I think you can actually get better deep downwind performance flying it off the bow versus a sprit.... Last weekend I delivered a Voyage 440 from Fort Lauderdale to the West Coast of Florida. The entire run from the florida keys the wind was right on the ass... We were able to achieve the best speed when we "free flew" the chute...

[Cotemar]

Maybe this picture will help.

Asymmetric chute in sock using a bridal for the tack point

[belizesailor]

Very possible and easy others have posted.

Full symetrical is easy too because w the wide beam you dont need a pole which simplifies the rigging.

I fly a full symetrical w just two sheets and two guy-lines. One pair on each tack/clew. I lead the guys thru blocks on bow and use them to control tack position and tweak trim.

Dead easy to jibe w this setup too.

[NSfooter]

I am fitting an ATN Tacker on our new FP Helia 44 to fly the asi. This holds the tack on the centreline without having a bridle.

[belizesailor]

Originally Posted by NSfooter

I am fitting an ATN Tacker on our new FP Helia 44 to fly the asi. This holds the tack on the centreline without having a bridle.

Something you might consider is the ability to haul the tack up to windward. Lots of cats are setup w blocks for this purpose. Really helps when at deep angles off the wind.

[Dreaming Yachtsman]

We bought our spinnaker from another sailor who was giving up cruising to be with grandchildren. It isn't even designed for our boat but it had the correct length luff to fit our rig. Since we use it only for sailing deep down wind, we attach its tack to the ring for our anchor bridle on the windward hull with a snap clip. Jibing requires dousing it in its sleeve, moving the tack to the other hull, and relaunching it. That is somewhat of a pain but I can't remember ever having had to jibe more than once in a transit.

Look closely at this picture and you'll see its placement: Cruisers & Sailing Forums - Dreaming Yachtsman's Album: Yachtsman's Dream - Picture