Mast Shortening-Hunter 335

[Charles Hine]

I want to shorten the mast on a 33.5 so I can get under the 50 /- foot bridges in our area. I was interested if anyone else had make a similar modification to a 335 or similar Hunter. I club race and was also interested in how this change might effect performance.

 

[Bob Rutland]

Ship

Check out Ship

 

[Frank Walker]

Bridge Markers are a Little Short

Charles, there is a new 33 Hunter at the Panama City Marina with a chopped mast. I do not know any details but noticed the strange angle of shrouds above the top spreaders. I have a 88 30 with a 50' stick. Under normal to high tides I clear Brooks, Navarre if I go two spans to the south of center, Hathaway, and DuPont. The only time that I tried Destin I just hit on average tide. Plan to try again on low tide(winter). My point being if you decide to chop her do not go by the bridge markers. When I say clear my VHF bends pretty good but thats all. I always slow down and look out for wakes.

 

[Steve O.]

Undoubtedly will affect performance

If you shorten the mast, you will have to shorten the sail. That certainly will affect the performance. It will also affect the bend in the mast which is designed into the boat's performance. Also will affect the enginnering of the spar--shroud attchment points, spreaders, etc. Also will affect the resale value of the boat. I wouldn't advise this, but its your boat. Consult a marine architect first.