Transporting/stepping rig on water AI

New to the Forum - appologize if this has been covered - have done some searching, but haven't found anything.

I will need to travel some distance in pedal/paddle mode and then step the mast after clearing a low bridge...... any tips for carrying the mast and stepping the mast while on the water?

Thanks in advance!

Mast and sail furled will rest along the side of the hull on top of the akas. Stepping should be easier tan if doing in on land as you stand in the cockpit... unless rough water of course.

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Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

I don't do this, but offhand I would say that using tramps would be a great help.

If you can, try prerigging the lines, bungee-ball the mast close to the starboard side, with the base facing forward (use the paddle holder chords too).

Keep a bungee ball wrapped around the sail until you are ready to unfurl.

Oh- and keep your knees bent!

Take some shots for us when you figure it all out?

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The Wind Is Your Friend...

agreed, the tramps are a must (unless you work for Cirque De Soleil (as a Pro Acrobat).
Even then, you will still need a stable base for your feet before being (potentially) off center to lift the mast into place:

1)Make sure your tiedowns for the mast are reachable from your cockpit seat. Undo the tiedowns (if used)

2) As you stand up, use your paddle as an assist on the either tramp. keep both feet wide as possible, possible stradling the hull.

3) Consider a pickup like as a loop of rope on the center point of the mast for easy pickup as you try to stay in balance.
(If there is heavy wind action (swells) forget about it. If you fall off you now have serious safety issues (unless you are using a harness system)

4) get your mast balanced in one hand and try to direct the mast into the fitting in 1 step only. (This could take a touch of practise)

Good Luck M8

Trinomite

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Always looking for ways to make good things 'Gooder'

I've done it a few times, especially taking the mast down for higher shore break landing. The AI is pretty easy, the TI because of it's extra height and weight would be harder, but should be doable. I keep 2 ball bungees on my right aka and use them to quickly lash the mast/sail down fore and aft on the aka when it's down. I can raise the AI mast easier by kneeling up against the front aka x-bar than standing in rougher water.

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Hobie Island Sailing since 2006

Hey rec
I think we both had a common mental connection.
Funny how the same basic idea can be reexplained in almost the same words.

Be well
Fred

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Always looking for ways to make good things 'Gooder'

and of course, practice it on land first,..

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The Wind Is Your Friend...

I have done this a number of times both on AI and TI. The neighborhood ramp has trees branches over it so it is a must to take down the mast when pulling up to the ramp. I uncleat the furling line, lift the mast out and lay it across the akas on the stbd side. This can be done in a minute. With or without tramps.

Once you become comfortable with the process you can gauge how much time you have before the bridge. On the NCC race course there a a number of bridges. I hardly slow down dropping the mast and re-stepping on the other side...

_________________
Paul
DogsLife
2011 Adventure Island


http://dogslifeadventures.blogspot.com/

Alas, the off balance factor won't kick in until you are afloat.
Tried it once and fell off, thus learning what not to do.

However, I've been thinking about a line running from the bow handle to the center line on the mast with a 2 to 1 purchase, yet it is unproven.

Invention is based on need not wishfull thinking.

Be well, bud
Fred

_________________
Always looking for ways to make good things 'Gooder'

I also did it many times when I had my AI. DogsLife is right, once you've done it a few times you will barely even slow down. The AI mast is very light and can be lifted out with one hand. As I would approach the bridge, I'd furl the sail, scoot forward, pull the release string(2006 boat), lift out the mast, lay it across the akas, peddle through and reassemble on the other side. You'll be quite pleased about how fast and easy it is to do.

On the other hand, I lowered the mast on my Getaway going under the same bridge. That was interesting. Stepping the mast on the water solo is a handful. I'm not sure I would do that again unless I really had to.

But with the AI, you'll be on the other side and on your way before you know it. Good luck!