Canoe sailing questions

Discussion in 'Sailboats' started by Ward, May 17, 2003.

  1. Ward
    Joined: May 2003
    Posts: 29
    Likes: 1, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 25
    Location: Texas

    Ward Junior Member

    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.
     
  2. gonzo
    Joined: Aug 2002
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    Location: Milwaukee, WI

    gonzo Senior Member

    I would have a sprit rig with 50-60 sq.ft.
     
  3. duluthboats
    Joined: Mar 2002
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    Location: Minneapolis,MN, USA

    duluthboats Senior Dreamer

    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
     

  4. Hushinish
    Joined: Jul 2003
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    Location: Ilkley England

    Hushinish Junior Member

    Standing lugsail 50 sqft with just under 2 sq ft of lee board in the water served me very well in my youth!
     
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