Classic Boat Designs - Rudder and Gaff Rig Questions

[photjoe]

I was hoping someone familiar with classical designs could help.

I'm baseing a design on a French Cutter, but due to the nature of the design the rudder is pitched. I was wondering how that effect helm balance and area. Is there any rule to follow for a well balanced helm or formula I can use to figure out how much rudder area is needed for this full keel design?

Also what's the best Sail Area to Displacement for a gaff rig? The best compromise between speed and safety. Any tips for lead for the rig from the CLR and COE?

Thanks,

Joe

[mmd]

I would reccommend you pick up a copy of Howard Chapelle's "Yacht Designing and Planning". It addresses most of the questions you have raised, and a lot more. Well worth the investment, even if you design only one boat.

[photjoe]

Got Chapelle's, but I was looking for hints and tips. Comparing some of the full keels of today to the past golden age, the rudder areas are considerable larger on modern hulls.

I also have Skene's Elements of Design, but it seem the actual formula for determining Sailboat Rudder area is missing from the book.

Joe