Coming about in a one sail catamaran?

Question

Going to a resort this weekend that lets guests sail small catamarans with only a mainsail. I kind of remember how to tack, but when we were at this resort had a bunch of trouble. In particular, I am not sure what to do with the main (and only) sail while tacking.

Answer 1

That's likely a Hobie Cat 14 or 16.  Yes, a tack has to be a steady arc for newbies so they don't dump it.  Actually, I would tack fast...cross the tramp fast and be ready for her to hook up again. If the boat doesn't have enough speed to tack...pass through the wind...bear off and gybe....that is...the wind is behind you and you change direction off the wind then sail up to the new heading you originally  wanted. Just controll the boom so it doesn't kill anybody.

Have fun.

Answer 2

I presume you will be using a Hobie Wave ; these are at Sandals and most Caribbean resorts. Difficult to tack until you have the secret - keep up your speed coming into the wind and as she starts to slow, pull the sheet towards you, pushing the rudder away,  but do not move across the boat at this stage. Allow gravity from your weight to help the wind get on the other side of the sail and as soon as you feel the wind in the sail, move quickly across to avoid any capsize. Hope this helps- I found out by trial and error, but it works every time.

Answer 3

It's simple, just keep the speed up, turn in a steady arc, and wait for the bows to come through the wind.  Then, if need be, you can grab the boom and give it a tug to help the main fill.  You can keep the main sheeted as cats take much longer to come about.  You can be ready to hike out as soon as the sail fills.