View Full Version : Canoe sailing questions


Ward
05-17-2003, 01:37 AM
Im almost done building my 12' canoe, and I'm already thinking of adding a sail to it :P I know it can be done, I've seen plenty of examples. But I have a few questions.

First, how 'deep' should the leeboards be? I'm not really sure how far they need to extend into the water.

Second, how can I find out how much sail area I would need? I don't want something that will require me to hang off the side of the boat for ballast, but I'd like to move faster than a crawl.

Third, What kind of rig would be the easiest to set up? Im thinking a single low aspect ratio bermuda rig would probably be the simplest, but I don't have much experience with other rigs.

Lastly, what kind of speeds can I hope for. My canoe is a pirogue design, hard chines, flat bottom, flat sides. I have actually heard that the hard chines will work well when listing. The boat is 12'2", 32" beam, and I weigh about 150 lbs.

Any additional information would be greatly appreciated, keep in mind that I have never built a sailboat before, although I have had some experience with them.

gonzo
06-22-2003, 01:33 AM
I would have a sprit rig with 50-60 sq.ft.

duluthboats
06-22-2003, 11:08 AM
Canoe Rig, The Essence and the Art, by Todd E Bradshaw, this is the best book I know of on the subject of sailing canoes. Full of great illustrations.

Gary :D

Hushinish
08-12-2003, 05:16 PM
Standing lugsail 50 sqft with just under 2 sq ft of lee board in the water served me very well in my youth!

View Full Version : Canoe sailing questions