A Bridle for Positioning the Spinaker Tack--Catamaran Stuff

rev 3-5-2010
rev. 9-20-2016


Note: six months after this blog was posted I quit using the traveler described below and switched to a bridle based on 3:1 tackles from each bow. Unfortunately, the traveler car described below bangs into the bow light, located on the gull striker - I broke a lens and called it quits. Additionally, the traveler does not move the tack as far to windward as the simple tackle, does not control the bouncing of the tack as well in lumpy conditions, and can actually contribute to bouncing. However, I left this blog post up because I was very happy with a similar mechanism on my Stiletto 27 and I believe it will work on some catamarans. It is also quite suitable for non-furling code zeros. On the other hand, I personally prefer to keep the code zero tack centered; if it needs to come to windward, you need the chute, and if it needs to go to leeward, you are probably better off with the genoa.


I actually like a wire gate climbing carabiner (not marine--they're clunky) on the tack, since it cannot trip accidentally and it is easily attached with one hand.

 

 Secured to he forward lifeline when not in use.

Centered with the wind on the beam.

Keep the head 1-2 feet below the crane. This leaves room for the squeezer and also gives the sail a little breathing room. The sail cut is often based on this. Ask the sailmaker.

So, there is my reasoning. Your non-PDQ 32 application may be different.

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[I left the original design post here just in case it works for you, for some other rigging problem. Maybe a self-tacking jib.]

Spinnaker Bridle Plate and Traveler

The tan plate below the tack of the chute serves as traveler and down-haul, and houses 6 self-contained bullet blocks. Two bullet blocks toward the bottom travel side-to-side on a white 5/16" low-stretch line. A block further up on each side provides 2:1 purchase for the cross-hauls, which terminate in black tandem clam-cleats just aft of the forward beam ends on both sides. This can be adjusted even when loaded-up. Two blocks near the top provide 2:1 down haul purchase on the tack. This line terminates at a tandem clam-cleat on the starboard side. By connecting it in this manner, when the tack is hauled side-to-side the tack height does not change. This cannot be adjusted once it is loaded-up in a strong breeze, unless I add more purchase. Below 15 knots, it's very manageable.