How Does A Catamaran Tack?

In a catamaran, the helmsman should steer into the tack with the rig powered up and the boat sailing at speed. Steer carefully through the tack, as slamming the rudders over can make them act as brakes. Multihull vessels like catamarans respond differently to rough surfs, gusting winds, and shallow waters. To successfully tack a catamaran, ensure that all equipment, sails, and rigging are in good condition and properly adjusted.

Tacking is a crucial skill for catamaran owners, especially those with multiple masts. One strategy that helps with tacking is the gybe, which is an maneuver used to change the direction of a sailboat by turning the bow through the wind. This maneuver allows the boat to sail against the wind.

To prepare for tacking, bring the catamaran up to about 50 degrees to the wind. However, there are subtle differences to be aware of, such as maintaining speed throughout the tack and often needing to ease the boom and head sail. Gaining speed by bearing away a bit before the tack is essential, and never try to tack in less than 5.5 knots of speed or from higher than 50AWA.

Jibing is another technique used to turn the boat away from the wind and bring the stern across the wind. Although two widely spaced hulls take more time to move through the water than a monohull, tacking a catamaran should be quick. Dinghy sailors have refined a sailing technique called the roll tack, which greatly improves speed coming out of the tack.

In conclusion, tacking a catamaran requires careful steering, ensuring all equipment, sails, and rigging are in good condition and properly adjusted.