by Laurence Lestage | Oct 19, 2019 | Boating guide, Monohulls, Sailing boats
Definition of a Cutter A cutter is a fast sailing yacht whose manoeuvrability is greatly enhanced by a divided sail plan. Its single mast is typically rigged with a gaff mainsail (gaff cutter), topped by a gaff topsail and supported by a boom at the foot of the mast....
by Laurence Lestage | Sep 11, 2019 | Boat accessories & deck equipment, Boating guide, Equipment and hardware
Although rigging systems on modern sailing yachts are engineered with highly optimised masts, sail plans and components to meet the expectations of the most demanding users, precise adjustment remains essential to ensure performance, onboard comfort and navigational...
by Laurence Lestage | Sep 5, 2019 | Boat accessories & deck equipment, Boating guide, Equipment and hardware
The Origins of the Foil The concept of the foil dates back to the 19th century. As early as 1861 in Great Britain, Thomas Moy fitted three horizontal foils beneath a small boat. Towed by a horse along the Surrey Canal, the craft lifted above the water’s surface. In...
by Laurence Lestage | Jun 4, 2019 | Boating guide, Sailing boats
Learning to Sail in Seven Steps Sailing can be explained—in simplified terms—in two principal ways: Downwind sailing: sailing on a following wind, where the yacht is naturally driven forward by the wind from astern Upwind sailing: sailing close to the wind, where the...
by Laurence Lestage | May 27, 2019 | Boat accessories & deck equipment, Boating guide, Equipment and hardware, Sailing boats
The primary purpose of an autopilot is to assist the helmsman by automatically maintaining the desired course, allowing them to focus on other essential onboard tasks. Autopilot: Definition A sailing yacht autopilot is a system installed alongside manual steering....