Cal35Cruiser Owner looking for info on Cutter rig

[jssailem]

I know from the plan designs and brochures I discovered, that the Cal35 Cruiser from 1974 had a cutter rig design option.

I'd like to know how my Cal35C might sail under such rigging.

My boat has the standard sloop rigging.

I'm removing the mast for service this winter and considering adding a removable cutter stay to the foredeck.

If you have thoughts please reply. Thanks.

 

[mitiempo]

A removable inner stay is most often used for a storm sail when the main is reefed. It does not make the boat a cutter. Is this what you intend? It is common on boats heading offshore.

A cutter has the mast farther aft and flies 2 headsails at the same time.

 

[jssailem]

you are correct. The ability to alter the sail plan in a blow is what I am thinking about. As it is now I have a 150 genoa on a pro furller. I can reduce the sail by roller reefing. But thinking it might not be good enough should my northwest cruising find me in a strong breeze looking for a place to escape. Sailing short handed is likely. So haveing a smaller sail plan as an alternative is under consideration. The question I have is if I set it up will I be giving myself a positive option or will the boat not sail well.

 

[mitiempo]

The boat will sail well with a staysail and reefed main as long as it is well planned.

Depending on how high the inner stay goes on the mast you might need running backstays. Generally if the inner stay is within a few feet of the masthead runners are not required, if lower down they are needed to keep the mast in column.
The inner stay will also need a strong attachment at the deck, ideal if it lands where the chain locker bulkhead is.