440: Lagoon 440 Short Mast Performance

[Sc00ter]

I'm looking at used 440's and several have a "Short ICW" mast. I live on the East Coast of the U.S. and have mostly traveled between Maine and Florida including the Bahamas. Would like to venture farther!!! ICW access would be nice but not mandatory.

I was wondering if someone could chime in with information on performance between the "Tall" mast and the "Short ICW" mast. There seems to be a sail area reduction of approximately 20% for the short mast. How does this translate in speed difference? Is the short mast 20% slower. Shorter mast also limits size of Genoa and Spinnaker. I'm also assuming that in heavy winds the small sail plan would not lose much as you'd just reef later than sooner, so it's only a light wind issue.

Any input would be appreciated!

Thanks Scott

[John Casey]

Sc00ter, I was just searching for the same info after reading an article in Sail called ICW Snowbird Rally: Dismal Swamp Canal.

About 4/5 down this page:http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...e-7100-15.html; Kapt Ken explains why he went with a custom rig instead of the factory setup.

Perhaps send him a PM for more details.