"silverdragon" wrote in message
...
Probably around a 40ft, and we will be using it for blue water
cruising, ocean crossing and a full time live aboard.

Is it viable to buy a ketch and then convert it to a cats ketch?

How different is a cats ketch to sail then a sloop or a cutter?


-Eric Taylor

If you're talking "Cat Ketch," you're basically talking about a Freedom, and
a conversion is unlikely to be either wise or affordable. The Freedom rig is
unique and the boat is designed for it. Any other ketch, on the other hand,
will probably be a traditional stayed rig (few excceptions). I personally
prefer a ketch, but have always had a soft spot in my heart (and possibly my
head) for the modern Junk rig, preferably in either ketch or schooner
configuration. The two-masted rig gives a lot of options in sail and sail
balance that is difficult or impossible to achieve with a single-masted rig.
Of course, every boat is a compromise, and the ketch and schooner rigs are
usually less weatherly than sloops. If you can sail within 30 degrees of the
wind, you're doing well. Works for me.
--
KLC Lewis

WISCONSIN
Where It's So Cool Outside, Nobody Stays Indoors Napping
www.KLCLewisStudios.com