Asymmetric Spinnaker

[MJ]

I am considering purchasing an asymmetric spinnaker. The racing spinnaker seems too gear and labor intensive for me. Does anyone have any advice or thoughts on the subject? Is the higher performance worth the expense and trouble? Is it difficult to rig, furl etc? Can I use an extra jib halyard and masthead sheave, or do I need to install an external block? Thanks!

 

[Dave Z.]

Consider a ATN Tacker

The ATN folks have a gizmo to let you use your spinnaker w/o a pole. See my post just below.Also a sleeve works great - I have one on my spinnaker. Flew it the other day for the first time (I am a relative newbie to this). Pretty cool....http://www.atninc.com/

 

[Dave]

Asymmetrical Spinnaker

MJ-I purchased as asymmetrical spinnaker last December when Doyle had a special offer....Have used it for a season and love it.....I race a Cat 27 and use a symmetrical often. Asymmetrical is easy (reduced crew from 3 to 2)....Use a sock for dousinng...easy to rig and use...Downside is that you will be "off" the wind a bit more than with a symmetrical, but not having to deal with a pole is a big plus. As for the hoisting, I can't tell from your entry if you are using a spinnaker now or not. If not, you can douse your jib and hoist the asymmetrical on the jib halyard. If you have a spinnaker halyard for a symmetrical, the asymmetrical can use that halyard just fine. In short, I would highly recommend the asymmetrical for ease and power....Good luck!