Mainsheet track and traveller: the best mainsheet system for a multihull
Why do we think the mainsheet track and traveller system is the best for a multihull?
There are two different approaches to controling mainsheet trim on multihulls. One is the track and traveller system found on most modern performance catamarans today. The other system is the A-Frame mainsheet trim setup. The A-Frame mainsheet arrangement is currently installed on Paikea and if you have been following our work then you would know Shayne is not a fan!
Well, why is it the track and traveller a better system? Why have the high end performance multis gone away from the A-Frame system and now use a traveller track? There is a great article by Schionning catamaran designs that goes into an excellent explanation on why the track with a traveller is the way to go. You can check out their article here
This video looks at how the mainsheet is trimmed on a Gunboat 68 and why it is superior to an A-Frame system.
If you enjoyed this tutorial on sail trim make sure you check out our video on downwind sail trim https://youtu.be/EzbHePQj8SA
Yea, Swift has the A-frame or delta main sheets as I call it. Was the biggest reason for not buying her but I decided I would replace it when the time was right. I will either put it on the main cross beam or on top of the Bimini I will build. I am leaning towards the Bimini for cockpit space since we are cruisers. I am interested in your plans.
Good question! Short answer is a track on the aft beam for us. We were thinking of doing a video answer and putting it on the Patreon page for you as there are pros and cons to each option. We’ll try and get something up for you soon