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SAILS & RIGGING: Junk Rigs For Cruisers

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I HAVE ALWAYS been very attracted to junk rigs, first, I suppose, because they seem so very strange and archaic. As one early Western proponent, a British cruiser named Brian Platt , who sailed from Hong Kong to California under junk rig in the late 1950s, once wrote: “Nobody could have designed the Chinese Sail, if only for fear of being laughed at. A device so elaborate and clumsy in conception, yet so simple and handy in operation could only have evolved through trial and error.”

Junk rigs are in fact safer and much easier to operate than Marconi rigs, hence they probably deserve more attention as a modern cruising rig than they currently receive. As far as we know, the rig was first adapted for use on a Western vessel when Joshua Slocum installed three junk sails on the 35-foot boat Liberdade he built in Brazil in 1887 after he and his family were shipwrecked there. Liberdade performed quite well, covering a total of 5,500 miles (from Brazil to the United States) in 52 sailing days, with daily runs as high as 180 miles. Afterwards, Slocum pronounced the junk rig “the most convenient boat rig in the whole world.”

Joshua Slocum and family aboard his junk-rigged dory Liberdade

In spite of this stamp of approval, the junk rig remained mostly a unique creature of the East for another 70 years. It wasn’t until 1960, when retired British army officer Colonel H.G. “Blondie” Hasler took second place in the first singlehanded transatlantic race aboard a 25-foot junk-rigged Swedish folkboat named Jester , that Western sailors again took a serious look at this eclectic apparatus.

China Blue , a junk-rigged replica of Blondie Hasler’s famous folkboat Jester

Since then it has remained persistently attractive to a very small minority of cruisers who desire an easily handled rig above all else. At least two American yacht designers, Jay Benford and Tom Colvin , both of whom favor traditional craft generally, have specified junk rigs on a number of their designs. Of these, Colvin’s 42-foot junk schooner Gazelle , designed to be built in steel or aluminum , is certainly the most popular. Junk rigs are slightly more prevalent in Great Britain, and there have even been a small number of junk-rigged British fiberglass production boats built over the years. There is at least one British specialty broker and builder, Sunbird Marine , that deals primarily in junk-rigged boats.

In essence, a junk rig consists of a fully battened balanced lug-sail (the Chinese describe it as “an ear listening for the wind”) that is hoisted on a mast that is either freestanding or only lightly supported by a few shrouds. Unlike a conventional Western sail, which has a simple unitary airfoil shape, a junk sail has a more complex scalloped shape. As such, the aerodynamics of the two sails are entirely different. Where a Western sail depends on a smooth laminar flow of air across its surface, a junk sail is believed to rely on turbulent airflow to operate effectively, although no one is exactly sure how this works.

On a Western sail, battens are used only to expand the area of the roach and to help maintain a shape that is inherent to the sail itself. They are very flat and are built into the sail so as not to disturb the airflow. On a junk rig, battens are integral to the rig. They are more tubular and stand proud from the sail, in effect acting as small booms that separate the different panels of the sail from each other. They also disturb the airflow over the sail, creating a series of vortices across its surface. Each batten is attached separately to the mast by a rope parrel and is controlled by a separate sheet, or sheetlet. These are gathered together in series through crude friction blocks known as euphroes. In some cases, if there is not room on deck to lead a single set of sheetlets aft of the sail, two separate groups of sheetlets control the battens from either side of the sail.

This sounds complicated, but in practice the rig is simple to operate. A junk sail can be a bit cumbersome to hoist, due to the weight of all its battens and the many bits of line that can snag on something, but once up it is easy to manage. Because the sail is balanced, with area both forward and aft of the mast, there is no risk of power-jibing, since the sail brakes itself as it pivots about the mast. It never flogs in a breeze, but instead flutters quietly. Because there is no headsail to bother with, tacking the rig is effortless. Best of all, when it comes time to reef there is no drama or anxiety. You simply release the halyard and the sail drops neatly down into its lazyjacks, panel by panel, no matter how hard the wind is blowing. There’s no need to luff up or ease sheets to spill air from the sail, nor is it necessary to tie down or secure the reefed portion of the sail.

A Jay Benford-designed dory with a junk rig reefed down in a brisk breeze

A junk rig is also inexpensive to create and easy to maintain. It requires little or no standing rigging, and the sail itself is never heavily loaded, so almost any material can be used as sailcloth. The Chinese literally build sails out of rags and old canvas sacks. Some modern junk-rig sailors like to use Sunbrella, the UV-resistant acrylic material normally used to make sail covers and dodgers, so that they never have to worry about covering their sails. Because the cloth is cut flat with no shape to it, rank amateurs can build their own sails. And if a junk sail ever tears, the hole can be safely ignored, as it does not otherwise decrease the sail’s efficiency and the battens normally prevent it from spreading from panel to panel.

Battens for a junk sail likewise can be made from most any convenient material. The Chinese have traditionally used bamboo and most modern Western rigs employ fiberlgass rods, but anything with an appropriate shape and weight can be pressed into service. So it is with the entirety of the rig. No specially made fittings are required. Most anything found laying about that looks like it might serve most likely will.

Here again is Brian Platt on the issue of maintenance:

The materials and workmanship that go into a Chinese sail, if applied to a Western rig, would blow to pieces in the first serious wind. The sail cloth is poor quality shirting-material, bound together with huge “homeward-bound” stitches. The battens are attached to the sail with a few strands of wire. There is no reinforcing in the way of the battens and no grommets. The wire is simply pushed through the cloth and round the batten a couple of times. The Chinese operates his boat on a very tight budget but he would use better materials if he thought they were necessary. In fact, the strains on a Chinese sail are so much less, due to the absence of flogging and slatting, that such materials are perfectly adequate. As for the workmanship, the Chinese sees no point in making it out of proportion to the materials.

This creatively rigged Wharram catamaran has “biplane” junk sails flying side by side

Performance-wise it is hard to compare a junk rig to a conventional Marconi rig, as the principles involved are so different. Any sailor familiar with a Marconi rig probably won’t be able to hop aboard a junk-rigged boat and sail it well without first practicing for a while. For Western sailors used to sails with a lot of draft it is hard to know when a junk sail is properly trimmed. Reportedly, even a little over-sheeting will instantly stall a junk sail and kill its drive. Those with a light touch on the helm and a strong intuitive sense of when a boat is pulling along at its best usually achieve the best results.

A junk rig generally does not sail to windward as well as a Marconi rig. Some claim, however, that though junks can’t point as high, they can sail faster closehauled. Others believe junks can point high if the panels in the sail are nicely cambered and are not kept too flat. On a reach a junk sails well, since the many sheetlets allow exact control of twist; on a run, at least in a moderate to strong wind, it is nearly ideal, as the entire sail, like a square sail, can be presented to the wind at a perfect right angle. A junk rig is weak downwind in light air, however, as usually there is no way to increase sail area by flying spinnakers and the like. A rig with multiple masts–two-masted junk schooners are a popular Western variant, while three-masted rigs are common in Asia–can, however, be flown goose-winged, with sails plopped out on either side, which helps to some extent.

The real deal. A Chinese junk with its rig splayed out on a run

Truth be told, of course, no sailor who is very interested in performance is likely to take a junk rig very seriously. Really it is a rig for lazy cruisers, which is the other big reason I find it attractive. The older I get, the lazier I often feel when it comes to sailing, and sometimes I am fairly certain I will end up owning and sailing a junk of my own before I am done with this sport.

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Perfect for small groups, families and friends, the sailing catamaran Cat Ppalu was designed to create a space you can all share and still have some privacy. Private cabins can accommodate up to 12 guests in four (4) double beds and four (4) twin beds.

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Sailing a junk rigged schooner in Greenland

Tom Cunliffe

  • Tom Cunliffe
  • February 28, 2023

A resourceful single-handed sailor overcomes obstacles while sailing a junk-rigged schooner in Greenland. Introduced by Tom Cunliffe

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Dave Leet’s Nomad is a junk-rigged schooner which he sails mostly single-handed . He certainly puts the miles in, because although this article is about his experiences in West Greenland, when I wrote to him about his work he was in Martinique where he’d been waiting out Covid.

The account here is edited from three articles written from his blog ( svnomad.blogspot.com ) for the magazine of the excellent Junk Rig Association. Talking with Dave makes crystal clear his view that remote places like Greenland should only be cruised by sailors with a totally self-help attitude, and the way he rebuilds his gearbox to replace the seals from spares which he ‘just happens to have on board’ says a great deal about this modest man.

Leet also notes that the Greenland and Canadian authorities give yachts no hassle so long as they clear in, keep a low profile and stay out of trouble. His cruise to the top of Disko Bay at 70° North, where ice conditions slip him the wink that it’s time to turn south, is exemplary. To be alone on one’s boat, sharing the bay with only icebergs in the Arctic twilight as the aurora blazes above you is an experience granted to very few.

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Dave Leet’s blog articles were published in the Junk Rig Association’s magazine

Dave Leet’s junk rig adventure

Well rested and with a full load of fuel, Nomad headed toward the source of all the ice floating around Disko Bay. Icebergs became more numerous as I approached the shoreline, and this was my first experience navigating close-up to them in bright light. They are a brilliant white that stands out against the blue sky, quite unlike their usual near-invisibility in foggy overcast conditions.

Approaching Quasigiannguit late in the day it was easy to work around a number of bergs in the harbour entrance and head for the far end of the bay. Anchoring in water as shallow as possible limits the size of iceberg that can run into your boat.

Leaving the harbour and steering around an ever-increasing number of bergs I headed up towards what looked like a solid wall of ice in the distance. Sailing closer revealed there was space to get between the bergs, where many were grounded near shore. Two rocks noted on the chart were hidden in the ice field, but no soundings are given in this area. Carefully working through the ice I found that the Nordre Huse anchorage was clear.

A strong breeze began blowing down the fjord late in the day so I felt it was safe to spend the night behind the icefield. It was a surreal experience with ice coloured by the twilit arctic night and the sounds of the glacier moving, clearly audible through the hull. Outside, an occasional sound like thunder could be heard as pieces of glacier broke off.

It’s only a few miles around the glacier face to Illulissat, so I spent a fascinating morning motoring between the gigantic icebergs at the front of the glacier. Entering the tiny inner harbour I found it extremely crowded with no convenient place to tie up Nomad . With some difficulty I got her turned around and out of the harbour. The three cruise ships in town supplied enough encouragement for me to clear off and head instead for the tiny village of Oquaatsut with its sheltered bay for the night.

Sometimes the best planning doesn’t help in the remote areas of the Arctic. After carefully working my way into an unsurveyed area I was greeted by the sight of a small berg grounded in the cove and the shallow areas full of bergy bits. It was obvious where the local fishermen tied to the rock wall in 40ft of water, but I was not comfortable with the amount of ice coming in with the wind so I retreated to a cove with a sandy patch showing at low tide.

The north entrance to Smallesund appeared closed by ice, but getting nearer I could see there was space enough to get through by the rock wall. Torssukkatak was full of ice, but navigable. Here at 70°N looking down the ice-choked Vaigat channel north of Disko Island I reluctantly decided it was time to head south towards the deep water around the islands on the west coast of Arve Prinsens Ejland.

It was no problem navigating the uncharted channels between them to the abandoned settlement at Ritenbank where I found a large shallow shelf allowing good anchorage with some current.

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Close ice encounter.

Ice and smoke

Early in the morning I was awoken when a resounding thump shook the boat. Sitting up, all that could be seen out the portholes was a wall of ice. Nomad and an iceberg had collided in the tidal current. The berg had run aground, so I pushed Nomad clear of it and the current kept us apart.

Pulling up the anchor chain eventually brought the boat against the iceberg again, but fortunately the iceberg had just missed parking on top of my anchor so I was able to get underway without having to wait for another tide to float it clear. It was another beautiful sunny arctic day as I motored across the bay bound for Qeqertarsuaq on the south shore of Disko Island, intent on doing some hiking.

I was dodging large icebergs and enjoying the otherworldly scenery of Disko Island when smoke started coming out of the open hatch. Expecting a fire, I was relieved to find the gearbox had overheated and the only thing burning was its seals. Hoisting full sail, I was able to coax Nomad another mile away from shore in the faintest breath of wind while the gearbox cooled enough for me to touch it. It was still full of oil, but this was very burnt so I changed it. Back in gear, the shaft turned slowly but would not speed up even at full throttle.

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Ruined Norse village of Hvalsey

I worked every breeze that came by throughout the night keeping Nomad away from the icebergs and attempting to head across the bay towards Aasiaat where I could attack the machinery in a safe berth. Making less than four miles overnight I was considering all manner of possibilities when troubleshooting revealed that the gearbox would provide full power in reverse.

Problem solved! I’d be able to back all the way to Aasiaat, 24 miles distant. I hurriedly dropped all the sails, eager to get moving after a long, unproductive night, but in my sleep-deprived state I forgot to check both sides of the boat for lines in the water. With the sails lowered I promptly backed over the junk rig’s port main ‘sheetlet’, stalling the engine. After spending some time trying to clear the prop from on deck I realised there was only one solution. I retrieved my diving gear stored in various places around the boat and set up my scuba tank on deck. With my dexterity impaired by wetsuit gloves and ice cold water I was unable to free the line from the propshaft, so I returned with a knife and cut it clear.

After wriggling out of my wetsuit I took a moment to warm up before throwing the dive gear below and starting the engine. I then began the tedious task of backing across the bay steering from one iceberg to the next as my course was too erratic to follow the compass. As I closed the coast near Aasiaat, a large cruise ship went by with a number of tourists standing on deck watching me. I can only wonder at what they thought, watching a schooner zigzagging backwards between the icebergs.

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The ice is constantly on the move

Having failed at several attempts to back between the rocks guarding the inner passage to Aasiaat, I felt a faint breeze near shore. Up went the jib and foresail, the main being out of service with its sheetlet cut. This proved enough combined with the propeller turning slowly ahead to get the boat moving. Nomad made it between the rocks without incident and slowly crawled into the harbour, reaching speeds of up to two knots.

Dismantling the gearbox the next morning I quickly found the problem. By pure chance I happened to have the spare parts on board to repair it, but it cost five days of the short Greenland sailing season and I was still 600 miles from the southern tip of the land.

Some days later, well down the coast with a good sailing wind, I departed Paamiut bound for the inside passage at Nunarsuit, the large island at Kap Desolation.

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The shimmering lights of the Aurora Borealis provided a magical display

Northern lights

Numerous icebergs were floating around as I made my way into the tiny, ice-free anchorage at Tunulliatsiaap Nunaa. The sunset was magnificent, illuminating the rocks and icebergs with reds and golds reflecting on the still waters. I ducked below to make dinner as the temperature plunged below freezing without the sun. Opening the hatch to toss out some onion skins I was awestruck by the sight of the sky shimmering in the green waves of the Aurora Borealis. Dinner forgotten, I sat on deck watching the aurora until they faded away.

There were numerous icebergs to dodge crossing the Braedefjord but I was able to get through to Tugtutoq island without a lengthy detour offshore. Sildefjord is at the east end of Tugtutoq island with a well protected basin to anchor in at the end of the fjord. Climbing the mountains, there were many patches of blueberries and the ice cap was clearly visible from the top across the berg-studded Braedefjord.

Article continues below…

The sun was setting in the canyon to the west as I made my way back to sea level. A few reindeer came down, and as the light faded grey streamers appeared at the mountaintops and slowly developed into a brilliant display of the aurora covering the entire sky above the fjord.

In the morning the boat was surrounded by fresh ice and my wet laundry was frozen solid on the lifelines so I reluctantly decided to move on before I got frozen in.

Qaqortoq has a busy harbour and is the largest town in southern Greenland. Nomad was comfortably rafted up to a fishing boat on the far side of the harbour where I changed the oil and topped off the fuel tanks again. Ten miles up Qaqortoq Fjord lies the ancient Norse village of Hvalsey, the best preserved Norse ruins in Greenland. I spent two days anchored at Hvalsey, hiking and examining the ruins in an absolute windless silence before returning to Qaqortoq.

schooner rigged catamaran

Spectacular sunsets are a feature of high latitudes cruising in Greenland

After studying the weather beyond the bottom of Greenland for a few days, the possibility of finding a gap between the storms off Kap Farvel to reach the Azores did not look good. This being the second week of October and not wanting to risk being stuck here for the winter it was time for Plan B. There was a depression passing just to the south, so I backtracked to Kap Desolation and sailed across the Labrador Sea just above 60°N to avoid the west winds from the low. Nomad passed the last iceberg of the trip at the edge of the continental shelf near Nain and made her way into Makkovik Labrador as the wind began blowing from the south with the approach of the next storm system.

Arctic essentials

Careful preparation paid off for this Arctic voyage and there were no serious problems. There are, however, a few things to change on deck and some more equipment that would make life much easier before returning to the north. Top of the list is a pilothouse or at least some shelter for steering and watch-standing. Reels for the 122m shore lines would greatly aid deploying and retrieving them. A bus heater plumbed into the main engine would enable the Refleks cabin heater to be shut down when motoring, saving quite a bit of fuel. A Navtex receiver and an Iridium device to receive weather reports and ice charts would be extremely useful. I couldn’t receive weather-fax charts on the shortwave receiver at all. And a forward-looking sonar would be a big help navigating the many unsurveyed areas on the charts.

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Tropic rover, two masted 145-foot gaff rigged catamaran.

One time largest sailing catamaran in the world was built in Fort Lauderdale from 1961 to 1962. Much different than the catamarans these days .

Are the boat building glory days of Fort Lauderdale past? Talking to Bixby Hill reminisce makes you wonder what has happened. Bix invited me to his home across from LMC and told stories of building boats on the New River during the 1950’s and 1960’s. The east and west banks downriver from I-95 have a rich tradition and colorful history of large yacht construction that makes you question if the mega yachts that populate our city today are really that advanced. In the 1950’s, Bix worked at Dooley’s Yacht Basin, what is now the east yard of Lauderdale Marine Center. There they built 140-foot minesweepers and exported them to the Netherlands to clear WWII mines from the North Sea. Equally busy yard hands on the north side built famous yachts such as the Prospector and Starlite and provided dockage for others such as the 115-foot motor yacht, Arethusa.

This was where, Bixby Hill says, they built the Tropic Rover from 1961 to 1962. She was a 145-foot gaff rigged schooner and the largest sailing catamaran in the world ever built to that point. For some perspective, that is 31-feet longer than the 114-foot trimaran winner of the 33rd America’s cup by BMW Oracle. Sidney Hartshorne, a long time Shady Banks resident, designed and commissioned the project. They leased the woodland from Summerfield Boat Works on the north side of the river across from Dooley’s. They actually had to clear the trees and shrubbery. The clearing was just west of the sheds than once lined the north bank of the final stretch of the New River. Below are excerpts from my November 6, 2010 interview with Bix at his home in Starlite Landing:

RJ: When did you arrive in Fort Lauderdale? BH: During WWII I was stationed at the Coast Guard base in Miami. Bahia Mar was originally a US Coast Guard base too. I traveled up and down the coast on patrol and came to know the area. In 1950, I owned four lots across from the Hortt School in Shady Banks. George Gill came along one day and said he needed those lots for his subdivision. He was building homes in the area and dredging the two canals that run north and south. So I traded my four lots for this property here with a nice new seawall. After the war, I worked as a foreman at Dooley’s building 116′ and 136′ minesweepers and exporting them to the Netherlands to clean mines left over from WWII in the North Sea. They had to be wood to avoid setting off the mines.

RJ: What was the area like back then? BH: The original access road was from Davie Boulevard to Cypress Landing which is along the eastside where 15th Ave is separated by a median. That was where the Prospector was built for Jack Collison. Then the access road came on a diagonal through the middle of the room where we are right now to Starlite Landing and where Gil Sayward built the Starlite. Later they made 19th Ave which came in straight from Davie Boulevard which was convenient for me. Now they have blocked that off. All the houses you see now were built in the late 1950’s and 1960’s. If you look at my property here you see how quickly the shrubbery grows and what it looked like back them. You can see all the piles we have cut down recently. After the minesweepers, I was working on Tropic Rover. Sid Hartshorne was a long time friend who also lived here in Starlite Landing. He like me was a boat builder from the northeast. Sid had this idea to build a 150-foot catamaran. I guess everyone thought it was crazy. Sid designed and organized the whole project. He leased the clearing across the river from Dooley’s. The company was called the Catamarans of Florida. We had an office in a trailer on the clearing. Sid convinced a bunch of investors from Nassau and from over here including the outboard maker Lee Johnson that it would be a good charter venture. It took us exactly 1 year to build the Tropic Rover from 1961 to 1962.

RJ: Was Tropic Rover glass or wood? BH: She had Douglas fir frames double planked with plywood then glassed over with a fire retardant resin called Hectrin. It better be fire retardant with all that plywood! She was a dangerous fire hazard. She had a huge schooner rig with hollow box spars that we put in at Bahia Mar. Everything on her was massive. She was powered by twin cat diesels. Getting her down to Bahia Mar was quite an ordeal. I asked Sid, “Hey did you plan this out?” He went down and measured the railroad bridge, and it only had 40-foot horizontal clearance. Tropic Rover had 39-foot beam! We barely squeezed through there. I remember one of the tugs breaking a window.

RJ: What happened to her? BH: It was pretty successful I guess. They featured her in Life Magazine. Except that the Bahamians wouldn’t let the charter group settle in over there. They actually had to start out and pick up passengers at Port Everglades. The Bahamian government did not want any charter groups settling in over in Nassau. They ran out most of the chartering schooners and ships. Tropic Rover ran four or five day charters sailing over to Nassau and around the Bahamas to places such as Green Turtle Cay. She had at least six double cabins in each hull so that would be twenty four passengers there. I went over for the inaugural run to Nassau, and then they hired an all Bahamian crew. The captain’s quarter was athwartships in the platform. There was in the main salon a bar complete with brass railing. Aft most was the galley. They ran her very successfully for five years. Then in 1967 bad weather pushed her into sunken barges at the Nassau Harbor. She ran around on the jetties. I have a newspaper clipping. After a two hour rescue operation, she sunk. No one was lost. All of the 35 passengers and 15 crew members were saved.

Since the days of Tropic Rover and Dooley’s Yacht Basin, much has changed. After construction of the Tropic Rover in 1962, Summerfield Boat Works dredged the land and put up a seawall. The area became the live aboard nook at the yard behind the little old house that still stands. Currently the yard is vacant after a failed development project during the land craze of the 2000’s. The foreclosed property recently resold for $1.25 million on September 14, 2010 to Point Breeze Holdings LLC according to Broward County Property Records. On the south side, Lauderdale Marine Center no longer does new construction instead opting for refits and service.

Watching the mega yachts go by from Bix’s home in Starlite Landing is like looking into the future. And the funny thing is these yachts do not seem that impressive knowing the lineage of our area. The 2010 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show saw the introduction of the largest yacht ever built in the United States, Cakewalk, a 281-foot mega yacht built at the Derecktor Shipyard in Bridgeport, Connecticut. It seems like all of us in Fort Lauderdale, the yachting capital of the world, should once again build something like Tropic Rover.

22 Replies to “Tropic Rover, two masted 145-foot gaff rigged catamaran”

I have just watched the James Bond Movie ‘Thunderball’ and Tropic Rover is shown in the harbor at night time and James Bond swims under her with the bad guys racing in a boat betwenn the pontoons

I was fortunate to have sailed her as crew with Sid, Betty,Bruce,Ozzie and his son, Winnie and so many more. The 2 years I spent on her as deck hand were my fondest memories even to this day. It was like a dream during a different life time. Most all are gone now like the “Rover” herself, truly a story that should be told. I am awaiting the day when I will rejoin her and my old shipmate to continue our voyage. Billy Boats  

Thanks for commenting in Billy. Hope I have such good memories someday. Richard

I remember when A. C. Emerson’s “Summer Camp Afloat” chartered her for his summer camp in the Bahamas. After that they took over the Lloyd’s Hotel on Spanish Wells for their location.

Another interesting boat from Summer Camp Afloat was ” The Pride” a square rigged Barkentine . Spent some languid days on board , during the summer of 69. Wonder what ever happened to her.

Rusty, did you work for SCA in 69? I believe “The Pride” was still being used in by SCA in the summer of 1971 when I was on Spanish Wells working for SCA. That’s the last I remember of her.

4 of us college students worked on the ss tropic rover in january of 195.  It was quite a experience. One of the biggest storms in the gulf stream was in progress as we crossed it to pick up our passengers in bimini.  Capt. sid hardshorne was not on board during the storm but their was a austraillian captain i recall.  I was seasick for 60 hours and had never been on the ocean before. The ship behind us I bleive was called the polonyesian lost a crew member overboard during the storm. We  sustained some major damage on board.  I remember I was at the Helm and when the aussie came over and saw that we were heading to the  north atlantic and were way off course.   Needleess to say he was very angry and drunk.  A very bad sign for a captain of a sailing vessel.!!!!  We were at sea for approximately 2 weeks.  During my seasickness ozzie the cook was serving and i took  one bite of the food and immediatley threw it overboard.  Ozzie became incensed picked up a butcher knife and chased me around the deck of the boat. I was saved by capt. sid hartshorne.  I often wondered what he thought of the whole situation.  This story has been told dozens of time s to friends and relatives over almost 50years.  Theres lots more to the story.  Best Regards, Jerry Stamm   at [email protected]

The aussie was Roy if he was the tall quy with a goatee and was as fond of drink as Sid. Bruce was the short aussie, usually sober. I do not think Bruce was on board that trip so it had to be Roy. He and Sid got into it in Nassau and Sid fired Roy and Bruce came aboard. Anyway that storm broke the main boom and damaged one of the launches. The reason we were off course was to ride out the hugh swells that were hitting us and trying to get to the lee of the banks. The Polynesia of Mike Burks Windjammer fleet out of Miami was astern of us as well as Yankee Clipper and Mandalay, all competition. Ozzie was the cook for better or worse and his son was our engineer. It is nice to talk and remember, I am the young skinny kid named Billy in those days. Sid was like my dad and he was losing the ship to money troubles so he was understandably out of sorts over it. More later…..

Do you remember the “Sea-Fari” treasure-hunting camp for kids run off that boat in Bimini by chance back around 1968? My Dad was Captain Kruse who found a Spanish Galleon wreck and treasure that the Florida State claimed was within their borders (reduced from then 12 miles out to standard 3 miles today) and seized with armed Coast Guards with machine guns and put in Pensacola Museum (and many pieces of treasure have mysteriously disappeared over the years)? he was also on Joan Rivers short-lived show, called “That Show” with Recardo Montalban talking about the treasure.

My Dad was one of the Sea-Fari camp Captain heads during the sinking of Tropic Rover — Bob Kruse. He said the parents of the summer camp kids were there on board during the storm — including a pregnant woman. He said the Bahamian crew they were forced to use crashed the boat then took ALL the lifeboats, leaving the parents/kids stuck trying to get everyone off onto a pier it was bashing up against because there was no lifeboats left. He said the next morning, it looked like a pile of matchsticks from bashing all night against the rocks. Every kid on those Spanish treasure hunting exersions fondly remembered the time they found an actual treasure ship — even thought the Florida government took it all away claiming ownership.

I spent three summers on Grand Bahama, at the Jack Tar Hotel, with Summer Camp Afloat. I’m thinking that was in the early sixties. Anyone else out there a participant ? I remember a Jeff Birch, Eric Runnerstrom, and Charlsey from California, The SCUBA diving on the 80 ft reef was outstanding, with dive guide Nigel Froome.

My husband Mike Krause was a crew member on the Tropic Rover in 1965 along with….Thomas Owen Mechum, Billy Alan, Betty, and Anna Mason Willier. Ozzie was his mess mate, and Burnell his engineer. He remembers the treasure hunt sponsored by General Mills. He would love to make contact with anyone that was on the Tropic during that time.

Some pics from Tropic Rover days. My husband Mike Krause at the helm. Also, picture of my husband and Billy Allen

Also, picture of Mike Krause and Thomas O. Mechem aka Tucker

For you and Jerry I remember Well Roy jumping from the Seawall by the Purple Onion pulling himself aboard and running up to Sid with his Knife Pulled. I took over as the acting First Mate from then until I left for Service in the Navy March 1965. I believe Dave Gruten took over as the First Mate. My most exciting moments was walking the Broken Boom and lashing the damn thing down …sewing up that #2 Foresail took a week.

I worked on the Tropic Rover with Bob Colf and took over for him as first mate when he decided to get some engine room experience. He was a good first mate.I remember the trip where the boom broke after the Rover jibbed. Sid’s back was out and he didn’t make the trip.The ‘captain” for the trip was Bruce who spent the ruff part of the trip in his cabin leaving Bob and the rest of us to fend for ourselves. I had previously worked on the Brigantine Yankee so I had some experience. The only one that could handle the Rover was Sid and he wasn’t there.Bruce wanted to put in a mayday and was in touch with Sid on the radio.Sid wouldn’t allow that to happen.Great adventures and memories.I ran into Sid 20 years later when I was commissioning my own boat in Summerfield He hadn’t changed.He was trying to put up my wife.

Jerry,I remember you.I think I tied you to the foremast so you wouldn’t fall overboard.

I left just before your husband came aboard.I introduced Tuck to the Rover and Sid and was first mate at the time.Best Regards David

Just discovered your entry….would be extreamly grateful if there is anyway you could help me reach Tucker

Last I heard was in the late 80″s,he had a hotel on Culebra near Puerto Rico.We come from the same area in N.J.so I can make some inquires.My emaill is [email protected] .

A little recent research lead me to Bob Serges Obituary. Bob was Captain of The Pride. He passed in 2008 in NEw zealand and it says the Pride was scuttled off Fort Lauderdale as part of an artifical reef

Anyone remember Kevin “Buck” Price?

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schooner rigged catamaran

Sail Rig Types: Exploring the Different Configurations

by Emma Sullivan | Jul 23, 2023 | Sailboat Gear and Equipment

schooner rigged catamaran

Short answer: sail rig types

There are several sail rig types used on sailing vessels, including the Bermuda rig, gaff rig, and lateen rig. Each type has specific advantages and disadvantages in terms of performance and handling characteristics. The choice of sail rig depends on factors such as the vessel’s size, purpose, and the prevailing wind conditions.

Sail Rig Types: Exploring the Different Options for Sailing Enthusiasts

Sailing enthusiasts know that there is no greater feeling than gliding across the open water, propelled by nothing but the power of the wind. But sailing is not just about the boat; it’s also about the rig that allows you to harness that wind and navigate your way through the waves. So today, we’re diving into the world of sail rig types, exploring the different options for sailing enthusiasts like yourself.

1. Sloop Rig:

Let’s start with one of the most common and versatile sail rig types – the sloop rig. This classic design consists of a single mast at its center and a head sail (called a jib or genoa) in front. The sloop rig offers excellent maneuverability and balance, making it ideal for both racing and cruising adventures. Whether you’re cutting through smooth waters or battling strong winds, this rig type will ensure you can handle any condition with ease.

2. Ketch Rig:

Enter the charming ketch rig! With two masts, one taller main mast and a shorter mizzen mast aft (near the stern), this design brings an added dose of elegance to your sailing experience. The ketch rig offers improved balance compared to a sloop, making it suitable for longer voyages or single-handed sailing due to its reduced sail size on each mast. Picture yourself confidently raising those sails as fellow sailors admire your stylish vessel cutting through majestic sunsets – this is what ketch rigs are all about!

3. Schooner Rig:

For sailors seeking a touch of authenticity and nostalgia from days gone by, look no further than the schooner rig! A schooner features two or more masts with fore-and-aft sails rigged between them. This classic design exudes traditional charm and elegance while offering ample space for larger crews or equipment storage below deck. As you hoist those sails high above deck, you’ll feel an undeniable connection to maritime history – just be sure to remember your captain’s hat!

4. Cat Rig:

Now, let’s switch gears a bit and explore the minimalist approach of cat rigs. Picture a single mast positioned further forward on the boat with just one sail attached – that’s the cat rig! Its simplicity makes it quite popular among beginners or those looking for easy handling in calm conditions. With no fussing over multiple sails, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the serenity of the open sea.

5. Junk Rig:

For those who crave something truly unique, the junk rig is worth mentioning. Originating from ancient Chinese sailing vessels, this rig features multiple horizontal battens that provide shape and support to its square sails. Though less common in modern sailing, it has gained popularity among adventurous souls who appreciate its unconventional appearance and ability to maneuver well even when other rigs struggle.

In conclusion, sail rig types allow sailors to tailor their experience according to their preferences and plans on the water. From the adaptable sloop rig to the captivating schooner rig or even venturing into lesser-known territory with cat or junk rigs – each option brings its own excitement and character to your seafaring adventures.

So whether you’re seeking speed, elegance, simplicity, authenticity, or a mix of them all – there’s a sail rig type just waiting for you to hoist up its sails and set off towards new horizons. So grab your compasses, tighten those lines, and let these different options for sailing enthusiasts bring an invigorating breath of fresh air into your maritime escapades! Bon voyage!

How Sail Rig Types Influence Performance and Maneuverability on the Water

Introduction: Sail rig types are a critical aspect of any sailing vessel, as they directly impact the performance and maneuverability on the water. Choosing the right sail rig for a particular vessel can make all the difference in how it handles, sails efficiently, and responds to different wind conditions. This blog post delves into the fascinating world of sail rig types, exploring their influence on both performance and maneuverability while providing professional insights infused with wittiness and cleverness.

1. Sloop Rig: Let’s start with one of the most common sail rig types – the sloop rig. This traditional configuration consists of a single mast located slightly forward that supports two sails; a mainsail and a headsail (usually a jib). The sloop rig offers excellent upwind performance due to its ability to efficiently tack against wind direction. Maneuvering through crowded waters becomes a breeze with this rig type as its easily adjustable sails allow for quick changes in sail area according to wind strength.

2. Cutter Rig: For those seeking versatility combined with enhanced control over sail adjustments, look no further than the cutter rig. This magnificent setup boasts multiple headsails, including an inner staysail placed between two masts—an advantage when sailing in blustery conditions or long oceanic passages where changing winds require adaptability. The cutter rig’s well-balanced sail distribution empowers sailors with added options for managing varying wind velocities.

3. Ketch Rig: Ahoy! Enter the elegant ketch rig—a classic beauty that embraces balance and style on the water. With its two masts, positioned astern of each other, this versatile sail plan offers improved maneuverability as it enables more precise handling in gusty conditions through various combinations of mainsail area reduction using just the mizzen mast or both working together like synchronized dancers atop your boat’s deck.

4. Catboat Rig: Now let us explore a truly unique yet often overlooked sail rig type, the catboat rig. Known for its simplicity and characteristically single mast positioned far forward, this rig is all about ease of use and maneuverability. The prominent advantage lies in its enormous headsail—a gaff-rigged sail reaching back towards the stern. It allows for amplified lift and an uncomplicated sailing experience while still managing to turn heads with its distinctive charm.

5. Schooner Rig: Schooners, those grand dames of the sea, grace our list as a majestic example of sailing history and elegance personified. This rig type showcases two or more masts with fore-and-aft sails on each one, lending itself to a vast range of configurations. The schooner’s incredible performance stems from its ability to distribute sail area across various masts expertly. Offering options for multiple sail combinations means that fine-tuning maneuverability through changing conditions becomes second nature.

Conclusion: In conclusion, choosing the right sail rig type can significantly impact a vessel’s performance and maneuverability on the water. From the tried-and-true sloop rig to the sophisticated schooner rig, each configuration offers unique advantages tailored to specific sailing preferences and conditions. By understanding how these various rigs influence both performance and maneuverability, sailors can make informed decisions when embarking on their next nautical adventure.

Mastering Sail Rig Types: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners and Experienced Sailors

Sailing is an exhilarating activity that allows individuals to experience the serenity of being out on the water while harnessing the power of nature. However, for those new to sailing, or even seasoned sailors looking to expand their knowledge, understanding sail rig types can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide: “Mastering Sail Rig Types – A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners and Experienced Sailors”.

To truly become a master sailor, one must first grasp the fundamentals of sail rig types. Each type has its own unique design and purpose, tailored to specific sailing conditions and goals. By familiarizing yourself with these rig types, you’ll gain greater control over your vessel and experience enhanced performance on the water.

Our guide begins by introducing beginners to the three main categories of sail rigs: sloop, cutter, and ketch. We break down these rigs in simple terms, explaining their distinguishing features and highlighting their advantages in different situations. Whether you’re cruising leisurely or participating in a thrilling race, understanding which rig type suits your needs will greatly enhance your sailing experience.

For experienced sailors seeking new challenges, our guide delves into more advanced sail rig types such as schooner and catboat. Schooners offer increased sail area options and exceptional downwind performance – ideal for those who crave speed and maneuverability. On the other hand, catboats excel at simplicity by featuring a single mast configuration that demands fewer crew members – perfect for solo adventures or relaxed family outings.

But don’t worry if all these terms sound overwhelming! We’ve included step-by-step instructions accompanied by witty anecdotes throughout our guide to make learning about sail rig types both educational and entertaining. Our aim is not only to impart knowledge but also to bring joy and excitement into your journey towards mastering sailing.

Beyond just explanations on paper (or screen), we provide useful tips on how to handle each rig effectively under various wind conditions. We explain how to trim your sails for optimal performance, adjust sail shape to maximize efficiency, and even offer suggestions on creative ways to remember the distinguishing features of different rig types. These practical insights will transform you from a mere sailor to a true connoisseur of the art of sailing.

The knowledge and skills obtained through understanding sail rig types are essential building blocks for any sailor. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps into this captivating world or an experienced sailor looking to refine your techniques, our guide is designed with you in mind. Its clear and concise explanations, coupled with humor-infused explanations, ensure an enjoyable learning experience that will undoubtedly leave you itching to set sail.

So grab hold of the opportunity to expand your sailing horizons by mastering sail rig types! With “Mastering Sail Rig Types – A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners and Experienced Sailors”, you’ll unlock new possibilities on the water while gaining the confidence and skill set necessary to navigate any sailing adventure that comes your way. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions about Sail Rig Types Answered Here!

Are you new to the world of sailing? Do unfamiliar terms like sloop, ketch, or catamaran rig types leave you puzzled? Don’t worry; we have got you covered! In this blog post, we will answer some frequently asked questions about sail rig types. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the fascinating world of sail rigs!

1. What is a sail rig? A sail rig refers to the arrangement and configuration of sails on a sailing vessel. It determines how the sails are set up on a boat and could greatly impact its performance and handling characteristics.

2. What are the different types of sail rigs? There are several common sail rig types used in recreational sailing:

– Sloop Rig: The sloop rig is the most commonly used setup for modern recreational yachts. It features a single mast positioned towards the front (fore) of the boat and one headsail (genoa) forward of it. This arrangement provides simplicity and versatility in various wind conditions.

– Ketch Rig: A ketch rig consists of two masts—the mainmast located closer to midship and a smaller mizzen mast near the stern. This setup allows for better balance and can provide more options for sail combinations in different wind conditions.

– Schooner Rig: A schooner has two or more masts with fore-and-aft sails on both. The forward mast is taller than the aft one(s), giving it a distinctive appearance. Schooners were popular in centuries past and are still seen today; they offer increased maneuverability due to their multiple sails.

– Cutter Rig: A cutter usually has one mast but carries multiple headsails (jibs). It features a larger headsail close to the bow, called a staysail, which provides additional control during strong winds or when sailing upwind.

– Catamaran Rig: Catamarans typically have twin hulls connected by a deck, and their rigging differs slightly from conventional monohull sailboats. Catamarans often employ a sloop or a fractional rig, with the mast positioned closer to the middle of the boat.

These are just a few examples; there are many other variations and hybrids available, each with its own set of advantages and peculiarities.

3. Which sail rig type is best for me? The ideal sail rig type depends on various factors, including your sailing goals, experience level, intended use, and personal preferences. If you’re looking for a versatile option suitable for cruising around different destinations, the sloop or ketch might be your best choice. On the other hand, if you seek speed and racing capabilities or plan to venture into rougher waters, consider rigs like the cutter or schooner. Ultimately, consulting with experienced sailors or experts can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

4. Can I change the sail rig type on my boat? In some cases, it is possible to modify your boat’s sail rig type; however, this typically requires professional expertise and substantial investment. Changing a sail rig involves modifying the mast position, adding or removing masts/sails/standing rigging components in coherence with safety guidelines to ensure structural integrity. It’s crucial to consult marine engineers or naval architects before considering such modifications to ensure that they suitably match your vessel’s design limitations.

5. Are certain sail rigs better suited for specific wind conditions? Yes! Sail rig types are designed with particular wind conditions in mind:

– The sloop rig offers good performance in most wind ranges but tends to excel in light-to-moderate winds. – Ketch rigs provide versatility across various wind conditions due to their ability to distribute sails more evenly. – Schooner rigs often handle well in stronger winds since they have more options for reducing sail area while keeping balance. – Cutter rigs are advantageous when sailing upwind or in stronger winds, thanks to the flexibility of having multiple headsails. – Catamarans can be effective in all wind conditions depending on their hull design and rig setup.

Remember, sail rig types aren’t restrictive; skilled sailors can optimize any rig for various wind conditions through knowledge of sail trim and choosing appropriate sail sizes.

We hope this comprehensive guide has shed light on some commonly asked questions about sail rig types. Whether you are just starting your sailing journey or looking to expand your knowledge, understanding different rigs is an essential step toward achieving mastery in the world of sailing. So, hoist those sails, catch the wind, and embark on your adventurous seafaring voyages!

Understanding Different Sail Rig Types: A Comprehensive Overview for Nautical Enthusiasts

Ahoy, fellow nautical enthusiasts! If you find yourself mesmerized by the allure of sailing, then you must know that mastering the art of sailing involves more than just harnessing the power of wind. One crucial aspect that distinguishes sailboats from one another is their unique sail rig types. And today, we embark on a comprehensive journey to explore and understand these various sail rig types like never before.

1. Sloop Rig: Let’s begin with the most common and widely used sail rig type – the sloop rig. Picture a classic sailboat in your mind’s eye: a single mast gracefully rising from its deck, adorned with a mainsail at the bottom and a headsail, commonly known as a jib, at the bow. This elegant arrangement offers utmost maneuverability, making it an ideal choice for sailors seeking both performance and ease of handling.

2. Ketch Rig: If you are someone who values versatility above all else, then the ketch rig should capture your attention. Characterized by two masts – a taller mainmast forward and shorter mizzenmast towards the stern – this sail rig type provides excellent balance and flexibility while navigating varied weather conditions. By adjusting sails on each mast individually, sailors can achieve better control over their vessel’s speed without compromising stability.

3. Schooner Rig: For those captivated by nostalgia and traditional charm, nothing beats the majestic beauty of a schooner rig. These vessels effortlessly transport us back to eras infused with romance and adventures on open waters. With multiple masts (usually two or more) carrying fore-and-aft sails rather than square sails – such as gaff or Bermuda rigs – schooners offer graceful silhouettes that embody seafaring elegance.

4. Cutter Rig: Envisioned as sleek racing machines or sturdy offshore cruisers, boats with cutter rigs demand respect and admiration. Featuring a single mast further aft, a larger headsail called the genoa or yankee in front, and a smaller staysail amidships, this rig type boasts incredible versatility for handling various wind conditions. Whether you seek blistering speed under full sail or prefer conservative reefing options during strong winds, the cutter rig delivers ultimate pleasure to experienced sailors.

5. Catboat Rig: In stark contrast to the afore-mentioned multi-masted vessels, we have catboats – delightful sailing companions known for their simplistic yet efficient design. With a single mast positioned near the bow carrying only a mainsail (often of generous proportions), catboats excel at simplicity and ease of use. Ideal for leisurely cruises and day-sailing adventures, these rigs allow sailors to enjoy their nautical journeys sans intricate complexities.

6. Yawl Rig: Lastly, we encounter the distinctive yawl rig – an arrangement similar to the ketch rig but with a notable difference: the mizzenmast sits aft of the rudderpost rather than forward like in a ketch rig. The yawl rig shines in its ability to provide superior control when sailing downwind while minimizing weather helm – ensuring comfortable navigation even in heavy seas. Although less common nowadays, this unique configuration still captivates sailors seeking outstanding maneuverability.

Now that we’ve explored these fascinating sail rig types extensively, it’s up to you to determine which one resonates best with your seafaring aspirations. Each has its own charm and practical advantages suited for different sailing styles and conditions—be it racing against fellow enthusiasts or peacefully gliding across serene waters,

Remember, maritime mastery requires continuous learning and adaptation; thus, familiarizing yourself with the diverse sail rig types brings you one step closer to becoming an accomplished sailor. As Horace once said: “He who is brave is free.” So embrace your passion for sailing fearlessly and chart new horizons as you navigate the vast ocean of sail rig types!

Choosing the Right Sail Rig Type: Factors to Consider and Tips for Making an Informed Decision

Sailing enthusiasts know that selecting the right sail rig type is crucial to ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage. With numerous options available, making this decision may seem overwhelming at first. However, by considering certain factors and following these tips, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs perfectly.

Factors to Consider:

1. Sailing Conditions: Before choosing a sail rig type, it’s essential to analyze the prevailing sailing conditions in your area. Do you usually encounter strong winds or calm waters? A sail rig suitable for heavy winds may not be practical for areas with lighter breezes.

2. Boat Size and Type: The size and type of your boat play a significant role in determining the ideal sail rig type. Dinghies, catamarans, sloops, or powerful yachts each require specific rigs designed for optimal performance on their respective vessels.

3. Skill Level: Your competence as a sailor also impacts the selection process. Novices might prefer simpler rigs that are easier to handle, while experienced sailors can explore more complex designs that offer enhanced performance but demand greater skill.

4. Intended Use: Considering how you intend to use your boat is crucial when deciding on a sail rig type. Are you planning leisurely day sails, competitive racing, or long-distance cruising? Each activity calls for different rig characteristics such as stability, speed, or versatility.

5. Budget Constraints: Alongside functionality and purpose, budget also plays a vital role in making your decision. Certain sail rigs can command higher costs due to their materials or technological advancements. Balancing your needs with financial limitations ensures a more satisfying investment.

Tips for Making an Informed Decision:

1. Research Extensively: Take advantage of various resources such as blogs, forums, magazines, and expert opinions that provide valuable insights on different sail rig types available in the market today. This research will empower you with knowledge to make an informed choice.

2. Seek Professional Advice: Consulting a sailing expert or professional can provide valuable guidance during the decision-making process. With their vast experience, they can assess your specific requirements and recommend the most suitable sail rig type for your boat and sailing preferences.

3. Test It Out: Whenever possible, try out different sail rig types before making a final decision. Renting boats or participating in training sessions that offer diverse rigs allows you to experience firsthand how each one performs and whether it aligns with your expectations.

4. Join Sailing Communities: Engaging with fellow sailors through local clubs, associations, or online communities can be invaluable. Not only will you gain access to experienced sailors who can share their feedback on different rig types, but you’ll also find a supportive network willing to guide you through your decision-making journey.

5. Consider Long-Term Goals: While it’s essential to select a sail rig suitable for your immediate needs, considering long-term goals is equally important. If you anticipate moving from casual sailing to racing or planning extended offshore trips, choosing a versatile rig that accommodates future aspirations might be wise.

In conclusion, selecting the right sail rig type involves careful consideration of various factors such as sailing conditions, boat size and type, skill level, intended use, and budget constraints. By conducting thorough research, seeking professional advice when needed, testing different rigs whenever possible, joining sailing communities for support and feedback, and considering long-term goals; you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision that leads to many rewarding adventures on the water!

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About Rubiyat

Rubaiyat Catamaran is one of the many famous Spronk designed catamarans of the Caribbean and the first original build of Peter Spronk.

Originally designed in the 70’s, this schooner rigged catamaran is legendary like all Spronk designs. Mainly known for their lightness and speed, having been built with specially designed plywood from the Netherlands. A unique innovation and proven a spectacular formula for these agile speedy yachts.

All Spronk designs are famous for having won many major Regattas since they were built. Out sailing by far many yachts, hours ahead of all, they are fun, fast, sleek and beautiful to watch.

Rubaiyat Catamaran only recently sails the waters of Aruba and is the most unique and prestigious addition to Aruba’s charter boat fleet.

So, what better way than to experience sailing upon one of these fantastic creations yourself, it is a dream come true.

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Schooner: A Classic Sailboat with Timeless Elegance

  • Schooner: A Classic Sailboat with Timeless Elegance

1. Introduction

Sailing has always captivated the human imagination, and one type of sailboat that has left an indelible mark in maritime history is the schooner. With its distinctive design and graceful sails, the schooner embodies timeless elegance and the romance of the open sea. In this article, we will explore the definition of a schooner, its history, anatomy, types, famous examples, modern relevance, and more. Join us on this voyage as we delve into the world of schooners.

2. Definition of a Schooner

A schooner is a type of sailing vessel characterized by its unique sail plan. Unlike other sailboats, a schooner has multiple masts, with the forward mast being shorter than the aft mast. The sails on a schooner are typically fore-and-aft rigged, meaning they run parallel to the length of the boat, allowing for efficient sailing against the wind. Schooners come in various sizes, from small pleasure craft to large commercial vessels.

3. History and Evolution

The history of the schooner can be traced back to the early 18th century. Its design is believed to have originated in the Netherlands and spread throughout Europe and North America. The schooner quickly gained popularity due to its versatility and speed. It was widely used for various purposes, including fishing, cargo transportation, and even as private yachts for the wealthy.

4. Anatomy of a Schooner

To understand the anatomy of a schooner, let's explore its key components:

  • Hull: The hull of a schooner is the main body of the boat, providing buoyancy and stability. It can be made of wood, steel, or fiberglass.
  • Masts: A schooner typically has two or more masts, with the aft mast, known as the mainmast, being taller than the forward mast, called the foremast.
  • Sails: The sails on a schooner are arranged in a fore-and-aft configuration. Common types of sails found on a schooner include the mainsail, foresail, jib, staysail, and topsail.
  • Rigging: Schooners have intricate rigging systems that support the masts and control the sails. This includes various lines, ropes, and pulleys.
  • Deck: The deck is the horizontal surface on the schooner where crew members move and work. It may feature cabins, hatches, and other structures.
  • Steering Mechanism: Schooners use a rudder system to control their direction, allowing the sailors to navigate through the water.

5. Types of Schooners

Schooners can be classified into different types based on their size, rigging, and purpose. Some common types of schooners include:

  • Baltimore Clipper: A sleek and fast schooner popularized in the mid-19th century.
  • Gaff Topsail Schooner: A schooner with a gaff-rigged topsail, providing additional sail area.
  • Schooner Yacht: Luxurious schooners designed for pleasure sailing and racing.
  • Two-Masted Schooner: Schooners with two masts, offering a balanced sail plan.
  • Three-Masted Schooner: Larger schooners with three masts, commonly used for commercial purposes.

Read  our  top  notch   articles  on  topics  such as  sailing ,  sailing   tips  and  destinations  in  our   Magazine .

An elegant two-masted gaff schooner (training tall ship) sailing in Mälaren lake, Sweden.

6. Famous Schooners in History

Throughout history, numerous schooners have gained fame for their remarkable voyages and contributions to maritime heritage. Some notable examples include:

  • The America: A schooner that won the first America's Cup yacht race in 1851, setting the stage for modern yacht racing.
  • The Bluenose: A Canadian fishing and racing schooner celebrated for its speed and beauty.
  • The Wyoming: Once the largest wooden schooner ever built, measuring over 330 feet in length.
  • The Adventuress: A historic schooner now serving as an educational vessel, promoting environmental stewardship.

7. Schooners in Popular Culture

Schooners have found their way into popular culture, appearing in literature, movies, and music. They symbolize adventure, freedom, and the romanticism of a bygone era. From classic novels like "Treasure Island" to films such as "Pirates of the Caribbean," schooners have captured the imagination of storytellers and audiences alike.

8. Advantages of Schooners

The design of a schooner offers several advantages over other sailboats. These include:

  • Speed and Maneuverability: Schooners are known for their agility and speed, making them ideal for racing and navigating through various weather conditions.
  • Sailing Options: The fore-and-aft rigging of schooners provides flexibility in sail adjustments, allowing for efficient sailing in different wind directions.
  • Versatility: Schooners can be adapted for various purposes, including pleasure sailing, chartering, cargo transportation, and even scientific research expeditions.

9. Sailing a Schooner

Sailing a schooner requires skill and expertise. The crew must work together to hoist and adjust the sails, control the rigging, and steer the vessel. Schooners offer an immersive and hands-on sailing experience, connecting sailors to the rich heritage of traditional seafaring.

10. Schooners in Modern Times

While the heyday of commercial schooners has passed, their legacy continues. Many enthusiasts restore and sail schooners, keeping the tradition alive. Schooners are also popular choices for those seeking a unique and nostalgic sailing experience. Whether for pleasure, racing, or exploring remote corners of the world, schooners continue to inspire sailors and onlookers alike.

11. Schooner Yachts: Luxury on the Water

Schooner yachts combine the timeless elegance of schooners with the luxury and comfort of modern amenities. These magnificent vessels offer a blend of classic design and state-of-the-art features, providing an unforgettable experience for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Schooners stand as testaments to human ingenuity and our eternal fascination with the sea. Their iconic design, rich history, and enduring allure make them a beloved part of maritime heritage. From their humble beginnings to their continued presence in modern times, schooners continue to inspire and captivate sailors and dreamers alike.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite sailing destinations. 

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our  range of charter boats  and head to some of our favourite  sailing destinations . 

FAQ everything about schooners

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The Wharram Wingsail Rig

"It's a Gaff Sail", they say. "No", I say, "What you and the wind are looking at is a soft Wing Sail."

Whether you see the TIKI sail as an old fashioned gaff sail or a new evolved soft wing sail is a matter of dispute.

What is not in dispute is, that since we developed the TIKI sail in 1981 for the then new TIKI 21 Coastal Trek Catamaran, over 3,000 of this type of craft, including many larger ocean sailing ones, have used developments of the original TIKI 21 sail rig. No new/old sail rig has been used on so many craft or been so widely tested.

Now, a wider public than Wharram catamaran owners is asking about the advantages of this rig.

100 years ago, in Britain, the major sail rig for small yachts was the gaff rig adapted from fishing boats. It had a short luff/leading edge and a long, heavy gaff. For windward work in light winds, one hoisted a gaff topsail (See Fig.1) .

This rig had evolved on fishing boats to pull a heavy beam trawl over the quarter, its best driving qualities being off the wind. It is a rig that requires hard work and skill to get the best out of it, if used on an all round sailrig.

Diagram comparing British and Dutch gaff rigs

In the 1930s, the new 'Bermudan' sail, with its single halyard, no gaff and no topsail, seemed to the yachtsman of the day, particularly weekend yachtsmen, who did weekend club racing, a definite step forward in an easily handled sail rig, and it did sail closer to the wind by about 5° than well trimmed yacht gaff sails.

After 60 years of 'development', the present day Bermudan sail is no longer the simplified rig of 60 years ago. With its many manufactured fittings it has ended up being an expensive rig. It is poor off the wind, requiring a spinnaker to rectify this deficiency, which is hard to handle shorthanded or in rough seas.

In the mid 1970s, Hanneke Boon, my Dutch partner, and I, attended a series of lectures on the aerodynamics of sails, held at Bristol University, with Britain's leading authority on sail aerodynamics, Tony Marchaj, as prominent speaker.

During the lectures it was stated, that the ideal sail would have a semi-elliptic 'Spitfire Wing' or square tipped 'Messerschmidt wing' profile. It would have easily controlled camber and twist, and most important, no or minimum mast turbulence on the leading edge of the sail. How to achieve this in practice was not part of the lectures.

During the discussion on ideal sail profiles, I suggested that the Pacific crab claw sail and the Dutch high aspect ratio gaff sail were closer in profile to the Spitfire/ Messerschmidt wing shape than the tall, skinny at the head, triangular Bermudan sail.

Tony Marchaj agreed with the suggestion and later tested Pacific crab claw sails in a wind tunnel. He came up with surprising good figures showing their aerodynamic efficiency in relation to the Bermudan rig (first published in 'Practical Boat Owner' in November 1988 and later worldwide).

At the time, as a practical sailor, I could see the handling, i.e. reefing etc., difficulties of the Pacific crab claw sail and therefore did not pursue its development.

In 1981, we were designing a radical trailer/sailer 'Coastal Trek' catamaran, called the TIKI 21 . A short mast, no longer than boat/trailer length, easy to raise, was to be an important aspect of the design. This excluded the use of the Bermudan rig.

The TIKI 21, built in a 'persuaded' (not tortured) ply/ epoxy/glass laminate, with wider hull separation than was then the norm in cruising catamarans and, for quick dismantling/connecting, beams LASHED to the hulls, (a practice previously done only by the ancient Pacific sailors) was a 'way-out' design.

One more 'way-out' idea, was not going to make the project more of a shock to the conventional buyer. So, (remember, my design partner is Dutch) we applied aerodynamic principles as discussed at the Bristol Symposium to the Dutch high aspect ratio short gaff rig, a rig evolved over centuries for fast passenger boats sailing in waterway Holland. (See Fig.1)

The Dutch rig is superb in its standing rigging simplicity, which in itself produces less aerodynamic turbulence than a Bermudan mast carrying an equal sail area with its spreaders and numerous shrouds. (See Fig.2)

The major leap forward we made, was to remove the main turbulence of the strong, large section Dutch mast from the leading edge of the mainsail by wrapping the sail around the mast in a wide luff pocket.

Diagram comparing Bermudan sail and Wharram Wingsail

Originally, we expected problems in this concept for, in the late 1970s, Garry Hoyt, an American, designed the 'Freedom' rig with tall, unstayed masts and a double layer Bermudan sail that went right around the mast, giving a leading edge to the mainsail without turbulence from the main mast. He was obviously working from the same aerodynamic principles as we. For some reason, after a few years, 'Freedom' yachts went back to conventional mast tracks and slides. No reason was publicly announced for this change, but there must have been some practical reason for this retrograde step.

In 1981, we argued that a 'Wide Pocket' around the mast would be a workable solution to reduce mast turbulence. So, we approached Jeckells of Wroxham, our long time sailmakers, to loft our first designed sail, when we all ran into an unexpected problem.

Sailmakers now use computer software connected to Laser cutting machines. Any mainsail, which has more than three sides gets the modern sailmaking system confused.

Fortunately, with the Jeckells' family experience (going back into the last century), we were able to get around the rigid 'computer mind', but not without several badly shaped sails.

Hoisting and handling the Wharram Wingsail

A good way to 'test sail' a new boat is to sail it in crowded sailing waters, for example, the Falmouth Estuary near our home base, and compare it with other boats. One day, in the late eighties, smugly satisfied with our professionally built TIKI 28 design's performance in comparison to other craft of similar or longer length, we were passed to windward by a 31ft. (9.45m) schooner rigged workboat, designed for fishing and sail training (see photo, TIKI 31 ). The fact that it was also a Wharram design, did not lessen the consternation or pique as it passed, for 'everyone knows' that schooners 'cannot' sail closer to the wind and faster than an equivalent sized single masted boat. Well, this one did.

Tiki 28 with sloop rig

Once the shock was over, I was inspired. My biggest design problem for 40 years was solved. Two masted rigs have smaller, easier handled sails and lighter gear than single masted rigs. On multihulls they also have, most important, a lower centre of effort than single masted rigs, giving less capsizing force. Yet, as I had found out in my early designing years, the boat with a single masted Bermudan rig invariable passed the boat with two masts, sailing faster and closer to windward.

This catamaran with a two masted Soft Wingsail Rig, that we had developed, had the speed and close winded ability as near as 'dammit is to swearing' to the traditional single masted Bermudan rig!!

It meant, that with two masts, easing mast and rigging stresses and with smaller sails to handle, we could design bigger TIKI's (like the later TIKI 36 and TIKI 38 ).

Tiki 36 with schooner rig

By the late 1980s, I was getting a little discomforted by my builders sending letters and cards from all the exotic places in the world, saying, how wonderful the sailing life is and asking: "Why are you not out here?" They were right. A good place to review ones ideas on yacht design is out on the ocean.

So, inspired by the sailing canoe 'ships' of the ancient Pacific, we designed and built a 63ft. (19.19m) double canoe/catamaran and used the two masted soft wing sail rig, that we had developed on the TIKI designs.

Wharram Pahi 63

Since her launching in 1992, we have been sailing this double canoe, the 'SPIRIT OF GAlA', coastal, inter-island and ocean, in the Mediterranean, the Atlantic and Pacific.

With hundreds of log observations based on a full navigation instrument range, we can confidently write that, carrying full working rig up to force 5, at 45 ° to the true wind, she will sail at half the apparent wind speed. At any other point of sail, from a beam wind to dead aft, she will sail at 90% the AWS (apparent wind speed) - see 'Nomads of the Wind', Practical Boat Owner, November 1994.

1996 in the Pacific was a bad weather year with heavy squalls and gale force winds, but my co-designer, Hanneke Boon , and her 18 year old apprentice, Freya MacKenzie from Canada, were at all times able to hoist or reef the sails (475sq ft - 44.1m2 each), on all points of the wind without the use of winches. They are good sailing women, but the quality of the rig must take some credit.

View from Spirit of Gaia's deck

Our work on the TIKI sail development has now given us confidence to go forward with the study and development of the Pacific Crab Claw Rig.

  • Throat halyard
  • Peak halyard
  • Traveller controls

Bermudan sail

  • Topping lift
  • Foot tensioner/outhaul

Reefing the boomless Wingsail

It seems that one way forward for the modern cruising boat sail rig is not to add more complexity and cost to the sixty year old Bermudan rig, but to add insight and modern materials to the over millenia evolved traditional rigs.

The multihull designer Nigel Irens with his new 'ROMILY' Lug sail design has done it. Junk sail enthusiasts are doing it. We have done it. To be a forward pioneer in these 'new' developments, using traditional sail rigs as a starting point is not necessarily expensive. All it needs is an open mind, common sense and the will to try.

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Schooner

What’s in a Rig – The Schooner

By: Pat Reynolds Sailboat Rigs , Sailboats

What’s in a Rig # 7– The Schooner

The schooner is another split rig plan, like the ketch and yawl, but really fell out of favor after having a very dominant place in sailing history for quite a long time. Early in the 18 th century on into the 19 th they became widely popular for their speed, versatility, and upwind prowess, which by today’s standards is not good, but at the time was surely better than the larger unwieldy ships of the day.

By definition, a schooner is a sailboat with at least two masts, with the forward mast (foremast) being a bit shorter than the main mast. Although a schooner can have more than two masts, most were just two. During the time of their popularity this smaller and better upwind set up allowed for a more efficient and manageable sailboat. It was the preferred choice of pirates, privateers, slaveship captains and others.

Although schooners filled a need at the time, they were eventually all but replaced with sloops and yawls that were even better upwind and easier to manage. The schooner’s two large sails weren’t all that efficient and there was a lot of sail to deal with. Perhaps yawls and ketches are still around mainly for that reason – the second sail is pretty manageable – a schooner, on the other hand, was (is) a lot of work and a lot to maintain.

In the other What’s in a Rig articles we made a case (or a partial case) for the practicalities of each particular rig, but the schooner doesn’t have any shining advantages over what came after it. Perhaps their contribution to modern sailing is to illustrate how it was once done. They are an extremely important element in the evolution of sailing and,for that matter, world history.

From the times of swarthy pirates to the racing legend America that ushered in a modern age, schooners ruled the oceans, so give them their just due. Maybe next time you see one, give a nod and say, “ thanks schooner, if not for you I probably wouldn’t be sailing this bitching J-boat right now. ”

What's in a Rig Series:

sloop rig

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Sail Away Blog

Mastering Catamaran Sailing: Essential Guide & Tips to Navigate the Waters

Alex Morgan

schooner rigged catamaran

Sailing a catamaran can be an exhilarating and enjoyable experience for both experienced sailors and beginners alike. Unlike monohull sailboats, catamarans offer unique advantages in terms of stability and speed. If you’re interested in learning how to sail a catamaran, it’s important to understand the basics and master the necessary skills. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to sailing a catamaran, from understanding the fundamentals to maneuvering and handling the boat effectively.

To begin with, let’s delve into the introduction of sailing a catamaran, followed by understanding the basics of a catamaran. We’ll explore what exactly a catamaran is and how it differs from a monohull sailboat. we’ll discuss the advantages of sailing a catamaran, highlighting why it has become a preferred choice for many sailors.

Before setting sail, proper preparation is essential. This section covers the importance of safety equipment and checks, along with understanding wind and weather conditions. Planning your route is crucial to ensure a smooth and enjoyable sailing experience.

Once you’re prepared, we’ll move on to the essential sailing techniques for a catamaran. This section will guide you through rigging and hoisting the sails, tacking and jibing, trimming the sails, and controlling speed and direction. Mastering these techniques is key to maneuvering the catamaran effectively on the water.

Handling the catamaran also requires specific techniques. We’ll cover important maneuvers such as docking and undocking, mooring and anchoring, and addressing emergencies like man overboard recovery. These skills are vital to ensure a safe and successful journey.

We’ll provide you with essential safety tips for sailing a catamaran. Understanding right-of-way rules, handling rough seas and heavy winds, and maintaining balance and stability are crucial aspects of staying safe on the water.

By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll have a solid understanding of how to sail a catamaran and be well-equipped to embark on your own catamaran adventures while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

– Sailing a catamaran offers the advantage of maximizing space with its two hulls, allowing for more comfortable living quarters and a larger deck area. – Catamarans provide a stable and balanced sailing experience, making them a safer option for beginners and those prone to seasickness. – Proper preparation, including checking safety equipment, understanding weather conditions, and planning your route, is crucial for a successful catamaran sailing experience.

Understanding the Basics of a Catamaran

Understanding the basics of a catamaran is essential for safe and enjoyable sailing. A catamaran is a boat with two parallel hulls connected by a deck. It has advantages over monohull boats. Catamarans are stable due to their wide beam, reducing the risk of capsizing . They can access shallow waters because of their shallow drafts . Catamarans also offer more space and comfort with larger cabins, living areas, and deck space.

To control a catamaran, the skipper uses the helm to control the rudders. Adjusting and trimming the sails allows the skipper to use the wind’s power and steer the boat efficiently. Balancing the sails and maintaining stability while sailing is important.

Knowing the key components, how to control the boat, and handle the sails will help you navigate the waters confidently. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner, familiarizing yourself with the fundamentals of catamarans is crucial.

What Is a Catamaran?

A catamaran, also known as a cat , is a type of boat that features two parallel hulls connected by a platform or bridge deck. This unique design provides it with stability and speed, making it a popular choice for sailing enthusiasts. Unlike traditional monohull sailboats, a catamaran offers a wider beam , which results in more space and greater stability . As a result, the sailing experience on a catamaran is smoother and more comfortable .

There are several advantages to sailing a catamaran. One significant advantage is its shallow draft , which allows it to navigate in shallower waters that are inaccessible to other types of boats. The dual hull design of a catamaran minimizes drag and enhances speed , making it highly efficient for long-distance cruising . The spacious interior layout of a catamaran provides ample room for accommodations , amenities , and storage .

When sailing a catamaran, it is essential to consider the wind and weather conditions for safe navigation. Understanding the right of way rules and knowing how to handle rough seas and heavy winds are crucial skills for catamaran sailors. Maintaining balance and stability is of utmost importance to ensure a smooth sailing experience.

A fun fact about catamarans is that they have been utilized by Polynesian cultures for centuries, proving their effectiveness and versatility in various sailing conditions.

How Is a Catamaran Different from a Monohull Sailboat?

A catamaran is different from a monohull sailboat in several ways. A catamaran has two parallel hulls connected by a deck or bridge, whereas a monohull sailboat only has one hull. This dual hull design provides greater stability and balance on the water.

In addition, the hulls of a catamaran are wider and shallower compared to those of a monohull, allowing for a shallower draft and improved maneuverability . This also results in a higher cruising speed and faster sailing speeds for catamarans.

Catamarans also offer more interior space and are known for their spaciousness and comfort , thanks to their wider beam. When sailing upwind, catamarans experience less heeling , which translates into a smoother and more comfortable ride for passengers.

Catamarans are better suited for cruising in shallow waters and can anchor closer to shore due to their shallow draft . The dual hull design of catamarans also provides greater redundancy and safety in the event of hull damage or collision.

Unlike monohull sailboats, which typically have a keel, catamarans rely on centerboards or daggerboards to prevent sideways sliding. The main differences between a catamaran and a monohull sailboat lie in their stability , speed , comfort , and maneuverability .

Advantages of Sailing a Catamaran

– Stability: Catamarans offer excellent balance with their twin hulls, making them less likely to tilt or capsize compared to monohull sailboats.

– Spaciousness: The wide beam of catamarans provides more interior and deck space, including comfortable living quarters, larger cabins, and ample room for socializing and entertaining.

– Speed: The design of twin hulls reduces drag, allowing catamarans to sail faster and provide exhilarating experiences.

– Shallow Draft: Catamarans have a shallower draft than monohull sailboats, enabling them to sail in shallower waters and access a wider range of cruising grounds.

– Comfort: The wide beam and stable design of catamarans offer a smoother and more comfortable sailing experience, eliminating the heeling common in monohull sailboats and reducing the chances of seasickness.

– Maneuverability: Catamarans are more maneuverable than monohull sailboats, providing better turning ability for navigating tight spaces, docking, and anchoring precision.

– Sailing Performance: Catamarans excel in light wind conditions, thanks to their large sail area and light weight, allowing them to catch even the slightest breeze and maintain good boat speed. This makes them ideal for destinations with calm weather patterns.

Preparing for Sailing a Catamaran

Preparing for a thrilling catamaran sailing adventure requires careful planning and essential knowledge. As we dive into the section on “ Preparing for Sailing a Catamaran ,” we’ll explore vital aspects such as safety equipment and checks , understanding wind and weather conditions , and planning your route . Get ready to uncover expert tips and strategies to ensure a smooth and enjoyable catamaran journey on the open waters.

Safety Equipment and Checks

Prioritize safety when sailing a catamaran. Thoroughly check and prepare your safety equipment before setting off on your adventure. Consider the following important safety equipment and checks :

  • Life jackets: Ensure enough properly fitting life jackets for everyone on board.
  • Flotation devices: Have throwable flotation devices readily available for emergencies.
  • Fire extinguishers: Have the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers on board.
  • First aid kit: Maintain a well-stocked kit for handling minor injuries or medical emergencies.
  • Navigation lights: Ensure all navigation lights are functioning properly, especially for sailing at night or in low visibility conditions.
  • Communication devices: Carry reliable communication devices such as a marine VHF radio or satellite phone for calling for help if needed.
  • Engine and safety equipment checks: Regularly inspect engines, bilge pumps, anchor systems, and other safety equipment to ensure good working condition.

Remember, safety is crucial. Check your safety equipment before every trip and ensure proper working order. Familiarize yourself with specific safety requirements and regulations of the sailing area. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your catamaran sailing adventure with peace of mind and be prepared for any unexpected situations.

Understanding Wind and Weather Conditions

Understanding wind and weather conditions is crucial when sailing a catamaran. You must have a comprehensive understanding of the wind direction, speed, and weather changes that may impact your sailing experience. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Wind direction: It is essential to know the direction from which the wind is blowing. This knowledge will assist you in planning your sailing route and selecting the appropriate sails.

2. Wind speed: Pay close attention to the wind speed as it could potentially affect the speed and maneuverability of your boat. Higher wind speeds may necessitate reefing the sails or adjusting your course.

3. Weather changes: Remain mindful of any approaching storms, rain, or fog. These conditions can have a significant impact on visibility and create challenges when sailing.

4. Sea state: Take note of the current sea state, which includes wave height and frequency. Rough seas may require you to adjust your sailing technique and speed to ensure the stability of the catamaran.

5. Weather forecasts: Always remember to check the weather forecasts before embarking on your sailing trip. This will provide you with an overview of the expected weather conditions.

By possessing a thorough understanding of wind and weather conditions, you can make well-informed decisions to ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience aboard a catamaran. Keep in mind that conditions at sea can change rapidly, so it is essential to stay vigilant and adapt your plans accordingly.

Planning Your Route

When planning your catamaran sailing route, it is important to consider several factors for a safe and enjoyable journey. One of the first things to do is assess the weather conditions by checking the forecast for potential storms or strong winds. It is crucial to avoid adverse conditions as they can pose risks to both the crew and the catamaran’s safety.

In addition, it is necessary to identify key destinations and conduct research on navigational challenges. This will help in finding suitable anchorages or marinas along the way. Creating a timeline is also essential to plan the duration of the journey, taking into account the distance to be covered and the catamaran’s speed. It is important to remember to account for any time constraints or events that may affect the plan.

Using navigational charts, it is advisable to plot the course, noting any potential obstacles along the way. It is also a good practice to plan alternative routes in case they become necessary. Considering currents and tides is another crucial aspect of route planning. Studying tidal patterns and current directions will allow for incorporating these factors into the planning process for greater efficiency.

Another important consideration is fuel and provisions . It is necessary to determine the locations of fuel stations and provisioning points along the route. Planning fuel stops and stocking up on supplies will ensure that you have everything you need during the journey. Communication and safety should not be overlooked either. Identifying channels to communicate with other sailors and emergency assistance is vital . It is also important to familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and have access to contact information in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

It is recommended to regularly review your route plan and make adjustments based on real-time conditions and feedback. This will help ensure that you are always up to date with any changes that may occur during the journey. By carefully planning your route, you can optimize your sailing experience, safely navigate waters, and fully enjoy your catamaran adventure.

Essential Sailing Techniques for Catamaran

Mastering the essential sailing techniques for a catamaran is the key to harnessing the power of wind and water. From rigging and hoisting the sails to controlling speed and direction, each sub-section in this guide will unlock the secrets that seasoned sailors swear by. So, get ready to tack and jibe , trim those sails just right, and experience the exhilaration of sailing a catamaran like a pro!

Rigging and Hoisting the Sails

To rig and hoist the sails on a catamaran, follow these steps:

1. Assemble the mast, boom, and rigging securely and properly aligned.

2. Attach the main halyard securely and tensioned to the head of the mainsail.

3. Attach the jib halyard properly tensioned and secured to the head of the jib sail.

4. Connect the main sheet to the boom to control the angle and tension of the mainsail.

5. Connect the jib sheets to the clew of the jib sail to control the angle and tension of the jib sail.

6. Attach the reefing lines to the mainsail, if applicable, to reduce sail area in strong winds.

7. Check all rigging and lines for proper tension and adjustments, ensuring everything is secure and aligned.

8. Raise the mainsail by pulling on the main halyard while guiding the sail up the mast, using winches or other mechanical aids if necessary.

9. Raise the jib sail by pulling on the jib halyard while guiding the sail up the forestay, using winches or other mechanical aids if needed.

10. Adjust the main sheet and jib sheets to achieve the desired sail shape and trim for optimal boat performance.

Rigging and hoisting the sails on a catamaran is crucial for a smooth and exhilarating sailing experience. By following these steps, you can confidently prepare your catamaran for sailing adventures.

Now, let’s appreciate the history of rigging and hoisting sails. Sailing has been a vital mode of transportation and exploration for centuries. The technique of rigging and hoisting sails has evolved from simple square sails to more efficient and versatile fore-and-aft sails used on catamarans. Today, catamarans are equipped with advanced rigging systems and modern materials that enhance speed and maneuverability. Rigging and hoisting sails remain a vital skill for sailors, connecting us to our seafaring ancestors and enabling exploration of the world’s oceans with grace and agility.

Tacking and Jibing

Tacking and jibing are essential maneuvers when sailing a catamaran. These techniques allow you to change direction and make the most of the wind. Consider these key points:

  • Tacking: This maneuver is used to sail against the wind. Turn the bow of the boat through the wind to switch the sails to the opposite side. This allows you to zigzag towards your destination.
  • Jibing: Use this maneuver to change direction with the wind at your back. Turn the stern of the catamaran through the wind to move the mainsail to the other side. Control the boom to prevent dangerous swinging.
  • Preparation: Before tacking or jibing, ensure that the crew is aware and in a safe position for stability during the turn.
  • Wind direction: Success with tacking and jibing depends on understanding the wind. Assess the wind and plan your maneuvers accordingly.
  • Practice: Perfecting tacking and jibing requires practice. Start with gentle maneuvers in light wind conditions and gradually progress with experience.

During a sailing race, a crew utilized their knowledge of wind patterns and executed a flawless maneuver by tacking right before the finish line. This tactical advantage secured their victory.

Trimming the Sails

Sailing a catamaran requires mastering the skill of trimming the sails . Properly trimmed sails greatly impact the catamaran’s performance and maneuverability. Here are some important considerations for sail trimming:

1. Adjusting the tension: Properly adjusting the tension on the sails is vital for achieving the desired shape and angle. The main sail should have a slight curvature called camber , which generates lift and power. Trim the jib sail to maintain smooth airflow on both sides.

2. Controlling the angle: The angle of the sails in relation to the wind direction is crucial for maintaining optimal speed. Adjust the sheets to trim the sails closer or further from the wind based on sailing conditions and desired speed.

3. Monitoring the telltales: Telltales , small yarn or ribbon pieces attached to the sails, provide valuable airflow information and indicate proper sail trimming. Continuously observe the telltales to ensure smooth and even flow.

4. Reefing: In strong winds, reducing the size of the sails through reefing is necessary to maintain stability and control. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for reefing and ensure proper securing of the sails.

5. Constant adjustment: Sail trimming requires constant attention. Continuously monitor wind conditions and make necessary adjustments to optimize performance and maintain control.

Mastering the art of sail trimming leads to smoother sailing, improved speed, and enhanced overall performance on a catamaran. Practice and experience are essential for developing this skill, so head out to the water and start honing your sail trimming abilities.

Controlling Speed and Direction

To effectively control the speed and direction of a catamaran, it is important to follow these steps:

1. Sail Adjustment: Optimize the power and speed of the catamaran by trimming the sails. Utilize the mainsail and jib sheets to manipulate the sail angle, taking into account the wind direction.

2. Utilize the Traveler: Fine-tune the speed and stability by adjusting the traveler. This tool, located across the cockpit, allows you to modify the mainsail sheeting point and control the angle of the mainsail.

3. Sail Plan Modification: Alter the sail plan as necessary to either increase or decrease speed. Reef the sails in strong winds to reduce the sail area, and unreef them in light winds to allow for greater sail area.

4. Daggerboard Adjustment: Maintain stability and control the direction of the catamaran by raising or lowering the daggerboards. These adjustments contribute to achieving balance and maneuverability.

5. Rudder Tweaking: Make slight adjustments to the rudder angle using the tiller or wheel, ensuring smooth steering of the boat.

Pro-tip: Enhance your ability to control speed and direction on a catamaran through practice and experience. Continuously monitor wind conditions and make minor adjustments to optimize performance.

Catamaran Maneuvers and Handling

Get ready to conquer the waters as we dive into the art of sailing a catamaran. In this section, we’ll navigate through the thrilling aspects of docking and undocking , the essentials of mooring and anchoring , and the crucial skill of man overboard recovery . Brace yourself for a wave of practical tips and tricks that will enhance your catamaran sailing experience. So, grab your compass, adjust your sails, and let’s set sail on this exciting journey!

Docking and Undocking

Docking and undocking a catamaran can be daunting, but with the right techniques and precautions, it can be done smoothly. Follow these steps:

  • Approach the dock slowly, keeping an eye on the wind and current.
  • Assign crew members to handle lines and fenders for a safe docking process.
  • Shift into reverse as you near the dock to slow down.
  • Turn the helm to steer the catamaran parallel to the dock as you stop.
  • Have crew members ready with fenders to protect the catamaran.
  • Engage reverse to back closer to the dock, using brief forward bursts to maneuver if needed.
  • Once close, crew members should step off the catamaran with lines to secure it to the dock.
  • Secure the catamaran using docking lines , ensuring they are properly fastened and have enough slack.

True story: One summer, while docking our catamaran in a busy marina, a strong gust of wind made our docking process challenging. Thanks to our crew’s quick reflexes and knowledge, we maneuvered the catamaran safely and secured it to the dock without damage. It was a valuable lesson in being prepared for unexpected situations while docking and undocking a catamaran.

Mooring and Anchoring

Mooring and anchoring are integral skills when sailing a catamaran. It is important to consider several key points when engaging in these activities. Make sure to choose the appropriate anchor that matches the type of seabed you will be navigating. Inspect the anchor line thoroughly to ensure it is in good condition and securely attached. Next, carefully select a mooring spot in a protected area that offers solid holding ground. When approaching the mooring, take into account factors such as wind and current, and proceed slowly. To secure the boat, use mooring lines that are connected to cleats or deck fittings. Safeguard your boat from potential damage by utilizing fenders . Prioritizing safety and accounting for your boat’s unique conditions and requirements is crucial. By practicing these techniques, you can enhance your proficiency and guarantee a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

Man Overboard Recovery

  • Assess the situation: When facing a man overboard situation, it is important to stay calm and promptly evaluate the circumstances. Take into account the distance between the catamaran and the individual in the water, as well as any nearby hazards or obstacles.
  • Alert the crew: Immediately inform the other crew members about the man overboard incident. This ensures that everyone is informed and prepared to provide assistance.
  • Initiate the man overboard recovery process: Throw a life buoy or any floating object towards the person in the water, offering them something to hold onto. This will help keep them afloat during the recovery process.
  • Turn the catamaran: Skillfully maneuver the catamaran to create a controlled loop or figure eight pattern around the individual in the water. This will slow down the vessel and facilitate their retrieval.
  • Bring the person back on board: Once the catamaran is properly positioned, utilize a ladder, swim platform, or any available means to assist in bringing the person back on board. Assign crew members to provide support and ensure the individual’s safety throughout the recovery process.
  • Monitor and provide medical assistance: After the person is safely back on board, promptly evaluate their condition and administer any necessary medical attention. Check for injuries, monitor vital signs, and administer first aid if needed.

Pro-tip: Conduct regular man overboard drills and practice recovery procedures with your crew to ensure that everyone is familiar with their respective roles and responsibilities. This will help reduce response time and enhance the likelihood of successfully recovering individuals in emergency situations.

Safety Tips for Sailing a Catamaran

Discover essential safety tips when sailing a catamaran in this section. From understanding right of way rules to dealing with rough seas and heavy winds, you’ll learn how to navigate challenging conditions with confidence. We’ll explore techniques for maintaining balance and stability, ensuring a smooth and secure sailing experience. So hop aboard and let’s dive into the world of catamaran sailing safety !

Understanding Right of Way Rules

Understanding Right of Way Rules is crucial for safe sailing. Follow these guidelines:

1. Sailboats have the right of way over powerboats. Be aware of your surroundings and give way to any sailboats in your path.

2. When encountering a vessel on your starboard side, yield and give them the right of way. Alter your course slightly to avoid a potential collision.

3. When overtaking another vessel, keep a safe distance and give them the right of way. Maintain a slow and steady speed to avoid creating a dangerous situation.

4. In narrow channels or crowded areas, vessels going uphill or against the current have the right of way. Yield to any vessels navigating in these challenging conditions.

5. Always be cautious and maintain a safe speed when crossing paths with other vessels. Slow down if necessary to ensure a safe passage.

By understanding and adhering to right of way rules, you can navigate the waters confidently and reduce the risk of accidents. Remember, safety should always be the top priority when sailing a catamaran.

Dealing with Rough Seas and Heavy Winds

Dealing with rough seas and heavy winds is crucial when sailing a catamaran. Here are tips to navigate challenging conditions:

1. Check the weather forecast before setting off. If rough seas and heavy winds are expected, consider delaying your trip or changing your route.

2. Ensure all crew members wear appropriate safety gear, such as life jackets and harnesses. Secure loose items on the deck.

3. Maintain a steady speed when encountering rough seas to keep the boat stable. Avoid sudden changes in direction or speed.

4. Adjust your sails by reefing to maintain control and prevent overpowering by strong winds.

5. Be cautious when navigating large waves. Approach them at a slight angle to minimize the risk of capsizing. Maintain a firm grip on the helm.

6. Be aware of the sea state. Avoid crossing large waves head-on; instead, cross them diagonally or at a slight angle.

7. Communicate effectively with your crew. Assign roles and responsibilities to ensure everyone is working together for safety and control.

In rough seas and heavy winds, safety should be the top priority. Stay alert, remain calm, and rely on your training and experience.

Pro-tip: Consider advanced sailing courses or consulting experienced sailors to enhance your skills and confidence in dealing with rough seas and heavy winds.

Maintaining Balance and Stability

Maintaining balance and stability is absolutely crucial when sailing a catamaran. It is important to ensure that weight is evenly distributed on both sides of the catamaran in order to achieve stability .

One way to accomplish this is by having passengers and crew members move to the opposite side when the wind picks up. Another key aspect of maintaining balance is properly trimming the sails to adjust their angle in response to wind changes. This helps to prevent excessive heeling and ensures stability .

Paying attention to the centerboards can greatly enhance stability . Deploying the centerboards can counterbalance the force of the wind and prevent tipping over.

Steering also plays a significant role in maintaining balance. It is crucial to steer steadily and in a controlled manner in order to keep the catamaran on course and avoid any imbalance.

It is important to be aware of weather conditions and understand how they can impact stability . When faced with heavy winds and rough seas, it is essential to adjust sailing techniques accordingly and make any necessary adjustments to maintain balance and stability .

Some Facts About How To Sail Catamaran:

  • ✅ Sailing a catamaran requires adjusting to the different motion and sail trimming compared to monohull sailboats.
  • ✅ Catamarans provide more space and stability compared to traditional monohull sailboats.
  • ✅ Catamarans do not heel like monohulls, providing a less tiring sailing experience.
  • ✅ Catamarans can sail in shallower places and prevent rolling in anchorage due to their lower drafts.
  • ✅ The American Sailing Association (ASA) offers a specific course, ASA 114: Cruising Catamaran, to provide practical sailing skills and confidence when sailing a catamaran.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how do i sail a catamaran.

Sailing a catamaran involves adjusting to its different motion and sail trimming compared to monohulls. You’ll need to take a sailing course or gather practical sailing skills to ensure confidence and enjoyment while sailing a catamaran. The American Sailing Association (ASA) offers the ASA 114: Cruising Catamaran course designed specifically for individuals with monohull cruising experience transitioning to catamarans.

2. What are the advantages of sailing a catamaran?

Catamarans offer numerous advantages over monohulls. They are more spacious, providing larger living areas above decks and expansive cabins located in the hulls. Catamarans are incredibly stable, making them ideal for longer voyages and providing maximum comfort and relaxation. They also have lower drafts, allowing navigation in shallow reef passages and anchoring closer to shore. Catamarans do not heel like monohulls, providing a more comfortable and less tiring sailing experience.

3. How can I charter a catamaran from The Moorings?

The Moorings offers innovative and top-quality catamarans for sailing vacations. To charter a catamaran from The Moorings, you can visit their website and access their charter resources. They are known for their exclusive access to Robertson & Caine catamarans, distinguished for their quality and comfort. There, you can find information on boat availability, reputation, and customer reviews to choose the right catamaran for your needs and preferences.

4. What is the ASA 114: Cruising Catamaran certification?

The American Sailing Association (ASA) offers the ASA 114: Cruising Catamaran certification. This certification is designed for individuals with monohull cruising experience who want to transition to catamarans. The course covers the advantages and disadvantages of multihull sailing, as well as practical sailing skills specific to catamarans. Obtaining this certification ensures that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to confidently sail a catamaran.

5. Are catamarans safe for offshore sailing?

Yes, catamarans are safe and stable for offshore sailing. They are designed to offer stability and comfort in various conditions. Catamarans have two independent hulls, making them less likely to sink completely. They also have duplicate navigation systems, including two engines and rudders, for onboard safety. Catamarans remain stable even in bad weather and do not capsize easily. Their advanced design and safety features make them a reliable choice for offshore sailing.

6. Can I sail a catamaran without previous sailing experience?

Sailing a catamaran without previous sailing experience is not recommended. It is essential to have some sailing knowledge and skills before attempting to sail a catamaran. Taking a sailing course, such as the ASA 114: Cruising Catamaran course, will provide you with the necessary skills and confidence to safely operate a catamaran. Spending time onboard and obtaining a sailing diploma or certification will ensure a better understanding of catamaran sailing fundamentals.

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Strange Glow Over Moscow Skies Triggers Panic as Explosions Reported

B right flashes lit up the night sky in southern Moscow in the early hours of Thursday morning, new footage appears to show, following reports of an explosion at an electrical substation on the outskirts of the city.

Video snippets circulating on Russian-language Telegram channels show a series of flashes on the horizon of a cloudy night sky, momentarily turning the sky a number of different colors. In a clip shared by Russian outlet MSK1.ru, smoke can be seen rising from a building during the flashes lighting up the scene.

Newsweek was unable to independently verify the details of the video clips, including when and where it was filmed. The Russian Ministry of Emergency situations has been contacted via email.

Several Russian Telegram accounts said early on Thursday that residents of southern Moscow reported an explosion and a fire breaking out at an electrical substation in the Leninsky district, southeast of central Moscow.

Local authorities in the Leninsky district told Russian outlet RBC that the explosion had happened in the village of Molokovo. "All vital facilities are operating as normal," Leninsky district officials told the outlet.

The incident at the substation in Molokovo took place just before 2 a.m. local time, MSK1.ru reported.

Messages published by the ASTRA Telegram account, run by independent Russian journalists, appear to show residents close to the substation panicking as they question the bright flashes in the sky. One local resident describes seeing the bright light before losing access to electricity, with another calling the incident a "nightmare."

More than 10 villages and towns in the southeast of Moscow lost access to electricity, the ASTRA Telegram account also reported. The town of Lytkarino to the southeast of Moscow, lost electricity, wrote the eastern European-based independent outlet, Meduza.

Outages were reported in the southern Domodedovo area of the city, according to another Russian outlet, as well as power failures in western Moscow. Electricity was then restored to the areas, the Strana.ua outlet reported.

The cause of the reported explosion is not known. A Telegram account aggregating news for the Lytkarino area described the incident as "an ordinary accident at a substation."

The MSK1.ru outlet quoted a local resident who speculated that a drone may have been responsible for the explosion, but no other Russian source reported this as a possible cause.

Ukraine has repeatedly targeted Moscow with long-range aerial drones in recent months, including a dramatic wave of strikes in late May.

On Sunday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the region's air defense systems had intercepted an aerial drone over the city of Elektrostal, to the east of Moscow. No damage or casualties were reported, he said.

The previous day, Russian air defenses detected and shot down another drone flying over the Bogorodsky district, northeast of central Moscow, Sobyanin said.

There is currently no evidence that an aerial drone was responsible for the reported overnight explosion at the electrical substation in southern Moscow.

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Stills from footage circulating on Telegram early on Thursday morning. Bright flashes lit up the night sky in southern Moscow, new footage appears to show, following reports of an explosion at an electrical substation on the outskirts of the city.

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Why were so many metro stations in Moscow renamed?

Okhotny Ryad station in Soviet times and today.

Okhotny Ryad station in Soviet times and today.

The Moscow metro system has 275 stations, and 28 of them have been renamed at some point or other—and several times in some cases. Most of these are the oldest stations, which opened in 1935.

The politics of place names

The first station to change its name was Ulitsa Kominterna (Comintern Street). The Comintern was an international communist organization that ceased to exist in 1943, and after the war Moscow authorities decided to call the street named after it something else. In 1946, the station was renamed Kalininskaya. Then for several days in 1990, the station was called Vozdvizhenka, before eventually settling on Aleksandrovsky Sad, which is what it is called today.

The banner on the entraince reads:

The banner on the entraince reads: "Kalininskaya station." Now it's Alexandrovsky Sad.

Until 1957, Kropotkinskaya station was called Dvorets Sovetov ( Palace of Soviets ). There were plans to build a monumental Stalinist high-rise on the site of the nearby Cathedral of Christ the Saviour , which had been demolished. However, the project never got off the ground, and after Stalin's death the station was named after Kropotkinskaya Street, which passes above it.

Dvorets Sovetov station, 1935. Letters on the entrance:

Dvorets Sovetov station, 1935. Letters on the entrance: "Metro after Kaganovich."

Of course, politics was the main reason for changing station names. Initially, the Moscow Metro itself was named after Lazar Kaganovich, Joseph Stalin’s right-hand man. Kaganovich supervised the construction of the first metro line and was in charge of drawing up a master plan for reconstructing Moscow as the "capital of the proletariat."

In 1955, under Nikita Khrushchev's rule and during the denunciation of Stalin's personality cult, the Moscow Metro was named in honor of Vladimir Lenin.

Kropotkinskaya station, our days. Letters on the entrance:

Kropotkinskaya station, our days. Letters on the entrance: "Metropolitan after Lenin."

New Metro stations that have been opened since the collapse of the Soviet Union simply say "Moscow Metro," although the metro's affiliation with Vladimir Lenin has never officially been dropped.

Zyablikovo station. On the entrance, there are no more signs that the metro is named after Lenin.

Zyablikovo station. On the entrance, there are no more signs that the metro is named after Lenin.

Stations that bore the names of Stalin's associates were also renamed under Khrushchev. Additionally, some stations were named after a neighborhood or street and if these underwent name changes, the stations themselves had to be renamed as well.

Until 1961 the Moscow Metro had a Stalinskaya station that was adorned by a five-meter statue of the supreme leader. It is now called Semyonovskaya station.

Left: Stalinskaya station. Right: Now it's Semyonovskaya.

Left: Stalinskaya station. Right: Now it's Semyonovskaya.

The biggest wholesale renaming of stations took place in 1990, when Moscow’s government decided to get rid of Soviet names. Overnight, 11 metro stations named after revolutionaries were given new names. Shcherbakovskaya became Alekseyevskaya, Gorkovskaya became Tverskaya, Ploshchad Nogina became Kitay-Gorod and Kirovskaya turned into Chistye Prudy. This seriously confused passengers, to put it mildly, and some older Muscovites still call Lubyanka station Dzerzhinskaya for old times' sake.

At the same time, certain stations have held onto their Soviet names. Marksistskaya and Kropotkinskaya, for instance, although there were plans to rename them too at one point.

"I still sometimes mix up Teatralnaya and Tverskaya stations,” one Moscow resident recalls .

 “Both have been renamed and both start with a ‘T.’ Vykhino still grates on the ear and, when in 1991 on the last day of my final year at school, we went to Kitay-Gorod to go on the river cruise boats, my classmates couldn’t believe that a station with that name existed."

The city government submitted a station name change for public discussion for the first time in 2015. The station in question was Voykovskaya, whose name derives from the revolutionary figure Pyotr Voykov. In the end, city residents voted against the name change, evidently not out of any affection for Voykov personally, but mainly because that was the name they were used to.

What stations changed their name most frequently?

Some stations have changed names three times. Apart from the above-mentioned Aleksandrovsky Sad (Ulitsa Kominterna->Kalininskaya->Vozdvizhenka->Aleksandrovsky Sad), a similar fate befell Partizanskaya station in the east of Moscow. Opened in 1944, it initially bore the ridiculously long name Izmaylovsky PKiO im. Stalina (Izmaylovsky Park of Culture and Rest Named After Stalin). In 1947, the station was renamed and simplified for convenience to Izmaylovskaya. Then in 1963 it was renamed yet again—this time to Izmaylovsky Park, having "donated" its previous name to the next station on the line. And in 2005 it was rechristened Partizanskaya to mark the 60th anniversary of victory in World War II. 

Partizanskaya metro station, nowadays.

Partizanskaya metro station, nowadays.

Another interesting story involves Alekseyevskaya metro station. This name was originally proposed for the station, which opened in 1958, since a village with this name had been located here. It was then decided to call the station Shcherbakovskaya in honor of Aleksandr Shcherbakov, a politician who had been an associate of Stalin. Nikita Khrushchev had strained relations with Shcherbakov, however, and when he got word of it literally a few days before the station opening the builders had to hastily change all the signs. It ended up with the concise and politically correct name of Mir (Peace).

The name Shcherbakovskaya was restored in 1966 after Khrushchev's fall from power. It then became Alekseyevskaya in 1990.

Alekseyevskaya metro station.

Alekseyevskaya metro station.

But the station that holds the record for the most name changes is Okhotny Ryad, which opened in 1935 on the site of a cluster of market shops. When the metro system was renamed in honor of Lenin in 1955, this station was renamed after Kaganovich by way of compensation. The name lasted just two years though because in 1957 Kaganovich fell out of favor with Khrushchev, and the previous name was returned. But in 1961 it was rechristened yet again, this time in honor of Prospekt Marksa, which had just been built nearby.

Okhotny Ryad station in 1954 and Prospekt Marksa in 1986.

Okhotny Ryad station in 1954 and Prospekt Marksa in 1986.

In 1990, two historical street names—Teatralny Proyezd and Mokhovaya Street—were revived to replace Prospekt Marksa, and the station once again became Okhotny Ryad.

Okhotny Ryad in 2020.

Okhotny Ryad in 2020.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Lanette Mayes

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

40-facts-about-elektrostal

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

  • Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
  • With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Introduction to catamarans

Small "beach cats," such as the Hobie 16 featured in this section, require slightly different techniques from sailing a dinghy . While all the principles of wind, balance, and trim are the same, "Go for speed!" is always the golden rule for catamaran sailors.

ANATOMY OF A CATAMARAN

Look at the photographs on this page, and it will become clear why catamarans can sail so fast. Both crews are flying the windward hull, with just the leeward hull in the water. That super-slim hull has much less wetted surface area than any dinghy, which means there is far less drag. In addition, each of these catamarans has a beam of 8 ft (2.43 m), which is wider than any conventional dinghy hull (although not as wide as some high performance dinghies fitted with wings or racks). The beam of a catamaran gives a crew with twin trapezes a huge amount of leverage, which allows them to sail with a bigger rig than a similar length monohull .

KEEPING A CATAMARAN UP TO SPEED

Catamarans perform best in moderate to fresh winds of Force 3—5. They rely on being able to lift the windward hull to sail fast. In lighter winds they tend to

Razor Speed Sailing Boat

FULL SPEED UPWIND

This Hurricane 5.9 is beating upwind. It will not point as high as a dinghy but will sail a lot faster. Here the crew hit full speed sailing to windward.

stick to the water, and can be frustrating to sail. In stronger winds, the speed of a catamaran can make it difficult to control, with a spectacular cartwheel capsize known as "pitchpoling" likely to catch less experienced sailors.

Sailboat Pitchpoling

FULL SPEED OFFWIND

A Hobie 16 is fastest on a broad reach with spinnaker. Sails are sheeted in tightly because speed moves the apparent wind forward

A Hobie 16 is fastest on a broad reach with spinnaker. Sails are sheeted in tightly because speed moves the apparent wind forward introduction to catamarans

Hoist sails with the catamaran head to wind.

The rigging procedure of individual makes of catamaran vary. Catamaran novices are advised to familiarize themselves with the manual and, ideally to practice rigging with someone experienced with this type of boat. The steps below indicate some of the key stages of rigging a Hobie 16. Most catamarans have full-length battens in the mainsail, which create rigidity at speed; the jib may also have battens to help stabilize the sail. Loads on the sails are extremely high, Most have a halyard lock at the top of the mast, which is designed to stop the halyard from stretching.

schooner rigged catamaran

IClip the jib on a Hobie 16

to the forestay with plastic "hanks." Other catamarans have a full-length zipper up the jib luff.

2 The mainsail headboard withstands heavy loads. The bolt rope fits into a slot in the mast, and a double purchase on the halyard makes it easier to hoist.

schooner rigged catamaran

Rig the multi-purchase mainsheet, which controls the mainsail. It is combined with a traveler control that allows the mainsheet to slide across the width of both hulls.

5 Pull down the luff of the mainsail tightly.

The downhaul controls the distribution of power in the sail.

Continue reading here: Catamaran launching and landing

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  1. 2008 CONSTELLATION YACHTS Gaff Rigged Schooner (64ft)-Sold Catamaran

    Superb 3 Cabin/ 3 head catamaran, custom designed by Nigel Irens for luxury crewed charter. Old world charm best describes this uniquely appealing vessel. ... 2008 CONSTELLATION YACHTS Gaff Rigged Schooner (64ft)-Vessel Summary. Inquire About this Boat Full Specifications Image Gallery Video Gallery BASIC SUMMARY. Boat Length:

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    Of these, Colvin's 42-foot junk schooner Gazelle, designed to be built in steel or aluminum, is certainly the most popular. Junk rigs are slightly more prevalent in Great Britain, and there have even been a small number of junk-rigged British fiberglass production boats built over the years. ... This creatively rigged Wharram catamaran has ...

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  5. Tropic Rover, two masted 145-foot gaff rigged catamaran

    This was where, Bixby Hill says, they built the Tropic Rover from 1961 to 1962. She was a 145-foot gaff rigged schooner and the largest sailing catamaran in the world ever built to that point. For some perspective, that is 31-feet longer than the 114-foot trimaran winner of the 33rd America's cup by BMW Oracle.

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    Short answer: sail rig types There are several sail rig types used on sailing vessels, including the Bermuda rig, gaff rig, and lateen rig. Each type has specific advantages and disadvantages in terms of performance and handling characteristics. The choice of sail rig depends on factors such as the vessel's size, purpose, and the prevailing.

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    Rubaiyat Catamaran is one of the many famous Spronk designed catamarans of the Caribbean and the first original build of Peter Spronk. Originally designed in the 70's, this schooner rigged catamaran is legendary like all Spronk designs. Mainly known for their lightness and speed, having been built with specially designed plywood from the ...

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  10. Rig Designs

    The typical cutter has two foresails and a very long bowsprit. Classic cutters are gaff-rigged and have jib-headed topsail for extra power. The massive aft rig provides most of the power on this old schooner, while the forward rig helps balance the boat. J-Class racers, up to 26.5 m (87 ft) long at the waterline, combined classic and modern rig ...

  11. Schooner: A Timeless Sailboat

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  12. Configuration Types

    Fractional-rigged catamaran masts function differently. Single- or double-diamond stays hold the mast in column, while the shrouds serve only to hold the mast upright. Masts on multihulls are always deck-stepped and are well supported via the heaviest component of the boat's structure, which is the central crossbeam.

  13. The Wharram Wingsail Rig

    What is not in dispute is, that since we developed the TIKI sail in 1981 for the then new TIKI 21 Coastal Trek Catamaran, over 3,000 of this type of craft, including many larger ocean sailing ones, have used developments of the original TIKI 21 sail rig. No new/old sail rig has been used on so many craft or been so widely tested.

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    What's in a Rig # 7- The Schooner. The schooner is another split rig plan, like the ketch and yawl, but really fell out of favor after having a very dominant place in sailing history for quite a long time. Early in the 18 th century on into the 19 th they became widely popular for their speed, versatility, and upwind prowess, which by today ...

  15. How Are Catamaran Masts Fixed Down

    Secure the bottom of the mast to your catamaran. This can be done by attaching the mast to a bracket or collar at the base of the hull. Attach the halyard to the top of the mast. Many catamarans come with a pre-attached halyard, but if yours does not, you will need to secure the line to the top of the mast.

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    Understanding the Basics of a Catamaran. Understanding the basics of a catamaran is essential for safe and enjoyable sailing. A catamaran is a boat with two parallel hulls connected by a deck. It has advantages over monohull boats. Catamarans are stable due to their wide beam, reducing the risk of capsizing.They can access shallow waters because of their shallow drafts.

  17. Tacking and jibing a catamaran

    Tacking a catamaran refers to changing the direction of the boat while sailing into the wind. Here are the steps to successfully tack a catamaran: Prepare the boat: Ensure that all equipment, sails, and rigging are in good condition and properly adjusted. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the boat's design and handling characteristics.

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  21. Standing Rigging

    One should make a trip up the mast at least twice a year. Check all the pins and circlips, especially at the spreaders. All running rigging attachments and exit blocks should be regularly checked for chafe and deterioration. Note : The majority of marine insurers advise to change the standing rigging every 10 years (or 10,000 nautical miles).

  22. 40 Facts About Elektrostal

    Known as the "Motor City of Russia." Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname "Motor City" due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.. Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant. Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

  23. Introduction to catamarans

    The beam of a catamaran gives a crew with twin trapezes a huge amount of leverage, which allows them to sail with a bigger rig than a similar length monohull. KEEPING A CATAMARAN UP TO SPEED. Catamarans perform best in moderate to fresh winds of Force 3—5. They rely on being able to lift the windward hull to sail fast. In lighter winds they ...