Submitted on September 3, 2003 by Jim Thom

Question: I am presently constructing a 35' steel yacht from plans that include mast, rigging and sail plan for a sloop.

I am planning to move the mast aft from station 4 to station 5 (approximate), but keep the CE of the sail plan where it is by altering the sail plan to a cutter rig. This would imply reducing the length of the boom and the area of the mainsail, but increasing the size of the foresail/genoa. I think that the staysail could be designed so that the yacht would balance up under staysail alone, which I see as one of the advantages of having a cutter rig.

I was wondering in theory if this is a practical objective, since there may be unforeseen difficulties in moving the mast in relation to the keel. Also, if it is feasible, what type of professional could do the design work (the original designer is not available).

Thank you;
Jim Thom

Answer: Hi Jim, The center of effort of the sail plan is going to be very close to the center of the area of the sail plan. You could make some rough calculations for different sail combinations in each wind range on your own. Then figure out where you want the mast for practical, structural considerations and finally hire a naval architect to help you finalize the relative size of the mainsail, staysail and yankee.

Regards,
Dan Neri


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