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Pipeline · 20-12-2009, 00:33

Haven't been able to find a book or DVD, good or otherwise, that either documents or discusses in detail what it takes to sail a big tri (50'+) at speed. I'm not talking about some guy cruising around the Med. I'd like to read about sail changes, downwind and upwind sailing, equipment, etc...comparing their experiences to what we might face, in a much less intense situation. The French are the leaders now, but haven't seen a thing about their many races in depth. Might not want to give out trade secrets, but I doubt it. Any help?

Laidback · 20-12-2009, 01:12

Pipeline,
In my mind a big Trimaran would minimum of 65 ft - here is one that is 75 ft weighing around 8.5 tons. Cowes Online - Ellen MacArthur's trimaran up for sale

Jmolan · 20-12-2009, 15:15

I cannot find this book, it is out of print. Ic onsider it one of the best books ever written about sailing. And is detailed about sailijng 50' Tri east to west singlehanded.

"Moxie" by Phillip Weld

Read in January, 1981
One of the great sailing books of all time. Phillip Weld is from Massachusettts and was the publisher of the old Boston Post and then the Gloucester Daily Times.
Moxie is a fifty foot trimaran that Weld sailed solo across the Atlantic in a grueling race. Many Massachusetts sailors might remember seeing Moxie on Martha's Vineyard where it was moored after Weld sold it. The book is out of print now but is highly recommended to anyone who peruses old book shops and may come across it.

steve ripples · 20-12-2009, 16:44

Thanks for that book recommendation - found it on Amazon UK about $9 inc p&p, so bought myself a Christmas present! It's on Amazon.com, too, though. Nice one!