Tall rig or standard rig

[Jim Chira]

I am looking for a Catalina 27 and was wondering what would be best for Lake Michigan,Tall or standard?

 

[Jim Huhta, Sr.]

Cat 27's a great boat!

I have a 1979 Catalina 27 tall rig and find it perfectly suitable for Lake Michigan. I am, however, sure a standard rigging would be acceptable also. Taller stick means more sail area! Either one is an excellent choice. I find the 27 to be a perfect cruiser, durable, classic and I think you'll always get your money'w worth. Good Luck Jim Huhta

 

[LaDonna Bubak - CatalinaOwners.com]

Six of one...

Unless you're a racer, the additional sail area shouldn't affect your enjoyment of the boat either way. C27s are fantastic little boats and you'll love it!!LaDonna

 

[Peter Hine]

Depends on your conditions...

If Lake MI is an area with strong winds (Is the "Windy City" approriate?), then the standard rig would be better. If you normally see light air, the tall would keep you moving better. I have a standard rig here in the California Delta, where the wind is normally not more than 12-15 knots. All the tall rig guys clean my clock here. But I also sail a lot on San Francisco Bay, where I clean theirs. My standard rig sails with full main and 100% jib up to about 18-20 knots, while the talls reef at about 15. Talls also point a little higher than standards.