Spinnaker Rigging
For the utmost in downwind performance, we strongly recommend a spinnaker. One method
of rigging is described in the drawing. The topping lift for the pole is actually
often rope, rather than shockchord, and a downhaul is only needed in heavy air.
The halyard and topping lift can be cleated under the thwart so the skipper can
handle the lines while the crew sets the sail. The sheets may be run above, is shown,
or below deck (which decreases the gear the crew sits on). A launcher can also speed
up, and simplify, spinnaker sets and take-downs.
The spinnaker should have a retrieval patch mounted on its downwind side.
The most common Tanzer rig uses a continuous halyard and retrieval line. When you
pull the sail up, the retrieval line automatically pays out, and when dousing the
halyard is automatically pulled in. There are many options for creating arrangements.
In fact, no two Tanzers are rigged exactly alike. Generally, the retrieval line
runs aft of the centerboard trunk from the cloth tube on the port side, turns forward
to the starboard side, and is cleated either on the centerboard trunk or under the
thwart before turning up a block at the base of the mast as it becomes the spinnaker
halyard. Decisions pertaining to the exact layout of the spinnaker rigging are subject
to the specific inclinations for handling, comfort and convenience of each individual
skipper and crew. Good luck!
Deck Layout
Spinnaker Halyard and Topping Lift
