Rig and sail handling
Standing rigging survey/replacement
Perhaps your insurer has asked for a rig survey, it’s time for new standing/running rigging, or you’ve noticed an issue with a chainplate, toggle or swaging. Contact us and we’ll get you sailing again as soon as possible.
We cover all rigging repairs, whether you need new spreader boots, a replacement mast gaiter or new wiring to your mast head lights. We can unstep your yacht’s mast and store it safely over winter, so you can start the new season safe in the knowledge that any required work is completed. We work with all the major mast suppliers to ensure all work is carried out to the highest standard.
Storm sail modifications
Whether you’re planning on undertaking some serious sailing, require storm sails for offshore racing or desire the peace of mind knowing your yacht is set up for bad weather, we can add fittings and work with sailmakers to ensure that your needs are met.
You may want a trysail track added to your mast, a removable forestay for a storm jib, or your current system improved. Using our knowledge of blue water cruising, we can recommend the best solutions for you and your yacht.
We can work with your sailmaker or our preferred sailmaker, Penrose Sails, to ensure that sails and fittings tailor together perfectly to make a system that works when the weather is at its worst.
Cutter, slutter, solent and self-tacking rigs
With the advent of smaller and easier furling systems, many owners are looking for ways to make sailing easier and, therefore, more enjoyable. We work with yacht designers to modify the headsail arrangement. You may fancy the smaller sails offered by a cutter rig, and we can strengthen the deck, add running back stays and fit an inner forestay.
If you’re planning trans-ocean sailing, you may desire a solent rig to provide a larger permanently attached headsail. Perhaps you’re looking to reduce your headsail size for the convenience of a self-tacking Jib. We’ll discuss what is best for you and provide suggestions tailored to your yacht’s design and the sailing you do, to give you what you’re looking for.
Bowsprits, code zeros and offwind solutions
Few things in life are better than romping along off the wind under a bright colourful sail, in sunshine and a good sailing breeze, and anything is better than having to motor because there’s not enough wind for white sails to draw.
Whether you’re looking for more light-wind sail area, faster offwind speed, or an easy-to-use system that can be launched and recovered from the cockpit, we’ll help you decide if you’re best off with a top-down furling asymmetric spinnaker, a code zero style sail, or a cruising chute. We can modify your yacht for the system you choose. We can help you navigate the minefield of endless-line furling systems, bowsprits, snuffers and A sails. Whether you sail fully crewed or single-handed, we’ll make sure you get the best system for you.
Electric/hydraulic furling conversions
Push-button sailing allows you to sail when your physical strength is declining or you want to make sailing easier and more comfortable. Motors can take the effort out of sailing, making sail furling and trimming possible with just a few finger movements. Depending on your existing furling/winch systems, we can either upgrade or replace them with the latest electric or hydraulic units to make sail handling easier. Whatever system we install, we’ll ensure there is a manual backup should something unforeseen happen.
Not only do we fit the winches and furling systems, but we can also add oversized gauge wiring, a suitable battery bank, and a charging system to provide a comprehensive system you can truly rely upon.
