Gaff Ketch mast locations

Hi, I hope this is the right subforum to post this question:

The original designer of the gaff ketch rig on this trawler has commented that whilst she performs quite well under sail, he feels he may have placed the main mast approx 1 or 2 feet too far forward. Can anyone shed any light on this or offer an opinion/method to determine correct positioning of the mast(s)? Pics below. Many thanks:

 

Without a set of plans, particularly the sail plan, nope, no one can offer much more than very general guesses. If the designer thinks the main is too far forward, she's probably sailing lee helmed in light air, which truly sucks. Fortunately, most boats, particularly something like this, where windward ability and the general requirement to get away from the dock are never involved with very light air, maybe a moot point.

Simply put, a low aspect gaff ketch, on a burdened hull form needs more than a zepher, just to get away from a dock or mooring and her limited windward ability also suggests, not as big an issue as you might think.

To correctly position the mast, the original designer would be the first person to contact. If they're not available, an accurate sail plan and a set of construction draws will be necessary. These can be provided to a living designer who can work out the details for you.