Rigging Guide
Catamaran — Sail Types & Rigging
Common sail types for catamarans with step-by-step rigging instructions and diagrams.
Mainsail
The primary sail mounted on the mast boom. Provides the main driving force on a catamaran.
Rigging Steps:
- 1Attach the main halyard to the head of the mainsail.
- 2Feed the boltrope or slugs into the mast track.
- 3Secure the tack to the gooseneck fitting.
- 4Attach the outhaul to the clew and tension along the boom.
- 5Run the mainsheet through the traveller blocks.
- 6Raise the sail by pulling the halyard, ensuring the battens clear the shrouds.
- 7Tension the downhaul/cunningham and cleat the halyard.
Jib / Headsail
The front sail attached to the forestay. Works with the mainsail to create lift and drive.
Rigging Steps:
- 1Attach the jib tack to the forestay base fitting.
- 2Clip or hank the jib luff to the forestay (or feed into the foil track).
- 3Attach the jib halyard to the head of the sail.
- 4Run the jib sheets through the fairlead blocks on each hull.
- 5Tie the sheets to the clew using a bowline knot.
- 6Raise the jib and tension the halyard.
- 7Adjust the fairlead car position based on wind angle.
Spinnaker / Gennaker
A large balloon-like sail for downwind and reaching. Catamarans often use an asymmetrical gennaker on a bowsprit.
Rigging Steps:
- 1Attach the spinnaker halyard to the head of the sail.
- 2Connect the tack line to the bowsprit or bow fitting.
- 3Run the spinnaker sheet through the blocks on the leeward hull.
- 4Attach the sheet to the clew and run a guy on the windward side.
- 5Pack the sail in the turtle bag ensuring no twists.
- 6Hoist the sail once on a broad reach.
- 7Trim the sheet and adjust the tack line for optimal shape.