Really slow Cat 22

[Twitch]

I have a 20 year old Cat 22, and its incredibly slow. I cant point into the wind as well as all the other boats, which slows me down. I've done some research and I have ajusted the stays, which is supposed to help but I haven't noticed a difference. I'm getting the hull repainted and I'm getting a new main sail, which i hope will help, but i was wondering if anyone has any idea whats wrong. Thanks,Twitch.

 

[Big Windy]

Slow

First thing I'd check is the bottom. A dirty bottom, especially if it has actual crud on it, will really slow any boat, even a power boat.

 

[Bob W.]

It's Your Sail Trim

"Twitch" Your slow speed is the result of your sails and trim. Next time out with boats that are moving faster, look at what their sails are doing. Make sure you have the right choice of sails and tune the mast as many will attest too.

 

[Ray Bowles]

Sail trim is everything.

Twitch, Bob W. is right. The way you adjust your sails, the mainsheet trim and jib car adjustment all greatly control the speed and pointing of your boat.There are many good books on these subjects that are a cheap investments with large returns. One is "THE HANDBOOK OF SAILING" by Bob Bonds and is a very good reference source. My mainsail is worn our but the boat still hauls the mail quite rapidly. Good Luck, Ray