Aluminum or Carbon
The cost of a Carbon Rig is coming down all the time, but sadly not yet enough for me to consider one. So it just has to be aluminum. This is for sure one of the most expensive items and also one of the most critical bits. I have looked at getting second-hand rigs, the problem is that I really would need a rig from a similar sized catamaran, a keel boat rig would require so much modification that it would not be worth the trouble or the cost so at this time it looks like a new one for me. Just before I ordered a new rig I came across a secondhand hand rig in California, the details were a little vague, what really put me off was the lack of photographs and the possible need to get the rig fumigated when arriving in Australia. I opted for a rig from Allyacht spars in the end, used them before, there is a local very experienced agent. I know I will be happy with the rig. Allyacht Spars are supplying the boom too.
The chainplates are composite with uniglass carbon down to the chainplate bulkhead - a total of 24 layers I think. The upper and the lower shrouds come off the same chainplate, these are located approx 2.8m aft of the mast.
Forebeam
I suppose this could be considered part of the rig. My original intension was to go with an aluminum beam, either one from a spar manufacturer or a build it yourself version (had done this before). But have sort of got turned on to a composite beam. Not that I think it will be any lighter or in fact cost any less, but really does, or can blend in to the structure of the boat really well. The plan at the moment is to build a composite beam and catwalk from Du-Flex and E-glass uniglass. One underslug main anchor of 40 kgs with 80m of 10mm chain and a additional roller on top of the beam for large mooring lines and a spare anchor. The catwalk is built from 19mm Duflex - the anchor chain runs underneath to the anchor locker that is just forward of the mast bulkhead
