I purchased a used 6.0 that came with a spinaker that has a deck launch system. I have only used it a few times and it seems a bit of a chore for the crew. I am wondering if it would be worth the money to go to a snuffer system, and also to a self tacking jib. I am in my 60's and only do recreational sailing on weekends, and a few short distance races a year. Miami to Key Largo and maybe one other. Any thoughts on which snuffer system would work best.
Thanks
You should contact Todd Bouton (send him a
PM at the TCDYC site.) He has a Nacra 6.0NA with an I-20 spin and home made snuffer system that is both economical, easy to build and effective. It uses corrugated plastic pipe, roof fittings and zip ties. When he first unveiled it we rolled around lauging and proclaiming it would never work. After a couple of succesful trial sets and take downs on the beach we had to eat our words. I went out on the maiden test voyage as crew and can testify that the kite goes up and down just fine with his system. He runs the snuffer tube and pole between the foil and the bridles (below the foils it catches too much water in the rough stuff).
Self tackers are great for novice crews. With a resonably sized spinnaker on the boat (e.g. I-20) I don't think you will miss the big jib too much. Perhaps an I-20 jib and self tacker kit could be made to work. It's important to get the hoist height on the jib correct to get a reasonable sheeting angle.
Good luck with your modifications - they will all be supported by the UBCCU (United Beach Cat Crew Union).
Chris.
