The gaff rig on Kevin's catboat is a very versatile, albeit inefficient rig. When you start getting overpowered, you can simply ease the line which hoists the top portion of the gaff (the boom on the top) and it will dump air. Most of these rigs have reef points which are a more efficient way of dealing with increased wind, but its a tough job while underway when dealing with 18' boom. I have had my catboat for 7 years, and although I sail the catamaran more often, it is a relaxing change of pace. I can take out family and non sailing friends and even finish a beer before it gets warm. Ironically the demensions other than weight are pretty similar-18' LOA, 8'beam, 240 sq' sail..but over 3000 lbs!

Any way I tried, I couldn't convince the family that the N6.0 could be used for relaxing family outings. The catboat fills that role nicely. They are actually gaining in popularity up here in the northeast as great little shallow draft gunkholing boats.

They were very popular as workboats 100 years ago. Many were fitted with a large wooden strake on the side of the hull in the last six feet to prevent the various fishing traps and dredges from gouging the hull. Picture using that boat to oyster/crab/lobster for a living! I am sure many men lost their lives making a living on the boats we think of as quaint and historic.

The life of the commercial fisherman has always been one of great risk - still is today. Aboard the catboats 100 years ago, the typical crew was a man and a young boy. The boats heave-to well, which allowed the crew to haul traps, etc., without having to give much attention to the sails. The design that made for a good work boat now lends itself well to today's recreational needs. (And, as I understand it, catboat racing classes are growing in the Chesapeake and Buzzards Bay.)