Hybrid !

I'm not sure that even GRFi could so completely trash the current dinghy market...  But if he wants bragging rights I guess best to humour him as ever  .. So 'Yes of course - whatever' !!   

No Problem TT .... But I'm simply after straightforward efficiency via the concepts being tested - which is why Hybrid was produced.  Being able to 'do the same things' with a smaller sail plan stretches the higher wind range capability (wihout needing to be super-human !).  Then you still have the option of adding area back or in addition and really fly.  Pursuing highest efficiency goals also means you need less leverage all other things being equal.... so not quite as wide maybe, no complex wing / trapeze / sliding seat which also can obviously keep the overall weight down - a virtuous circle of benefits.   My view is many commercial projects are under real financial pressure and some launch far too early with sub-optimised elements - often seen in foils and rigs offered.  There is absolutely no time or commercial pressure with Hybrid at the moment ....  I rest my case ! 

Edited by Cirrus - 25 May 20 at 3:27pm

Adjustments to the mast/deck step and a bit more rake seems to work ... plus a bit more slack in the lowers.  This appears to allow the mast to 'work' a bit more upwind.  Sunday was a slight step up in wind strength on the previous sessions and some full-on hiking with a bit of depower was needed on occasion.   The alternative (slightly smaller) centre-board still fully maintained the  upwind performance but things just felt a bit 'better' - difficult to define really but it is about the general 'feel' of a boat.    Still have not tried the other available sails (different areas available) but the justification is to keep that aspect constant for a while yet and keep trying out different rig. settings.   This time the 'stalking horses' included the regular Blazes plus a solitary Aero.  In the full breeze occasionally available the Blazes looked very comfortable - as expected given the wing leverage but 'Hybrid' did not lose out too much.  Offwind they are fairly equal in terms of performance - especially pleasing given the smaller sail area of Hybrid.  Below wind of 10 mph or in lulls Hybrid had an edge and held the Blazes or crept away upwind for more of the time This was also fairly obvious running deep offwind .... But the hull is particularly easily driven and might equally work pretty well with the smaller sail as well- so might try that before too long.  The Aero was limited by the 7m sail used but went well in the gusts.    Next session is planned is Thursday /Friday.


Edited by Cirrus - 25 May 20 at 10:10am

it sounds like you're having a lot of fun in a lovely looking boat.... FWIW, I would ruin such a beautiful experience commercialising it to all the whims, conflicting desires and short pockets of the dinghy industry!