A Practical Cruising Rig

Here in Europe the standard rig for most yachts sold as “cruisers” is still the sloop, usually with a large overlapping genoa of 130% or more. That might be fine in sunny sheltered waters with an army of gorillas to help out, but is less than ideal for shorthanded crews sailing in windy and exposed seas.

This is when the ability to shift gear to suit the conditions by reefing swiftly and safely is far more important, and the true cutter rig comes in to its own.