Would it ever make sense to point higher than rhumb line for a while, pop the spinnaker for a while, and repeat? Is it possible that the VMG on average would be better than a main-only beam reach?
Good question Sparky. IMO it depends on various factors, wind strength, tide, sea state, other competition, 2 up or solo and your ability, determination to name but a few. It is always worth considering this option when sailing a course which is initially tight for a kite. In our local sailing press they would recommend putting the kite up first, sailing as high as reasonable and then drop the kite for a good reach into the mark. Rather than sailing high first then putting the kite up. The reason for this is that it is just much easier to judge the best angles. So as far as I'm concerned you are correct and putting up the kite is probably the quickest way to go in this scenario
