N-24 end-boom mainsheet

Posted By: Derek
Date: 2/26/08 3:07p.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

For any Neptune 24 owners interested: Pyrateer has been fitted out with end-boom sheeting and a traveller spanning the cockpit. This arrangement gives the helmsman the ability to work the mainsheet and traveller in response to puffs. Also, there is much better leverage for trimming the main when it's blowing hard. The mainsheet is a 6-1 rachematic Harken system. The load sensing ratchets engage when needed. Very cool when you're broad reaching in heavy air and need to gibe. With one hand, the helmsman can bring in the main, until the boom is on center, pass the stern through the wind, and smoothly let the main out. Combined with a very stiff Selden boom with internal reef lines, and a long batten, shelf-foot Pineapple mainsail, this setup has made a pleasure of sailing the Neptune 24 in heavy air.