Sailing the T9

[DLee]

The T9 is a sponson-less Klepper. It has a lot of rocker and is a very responsive boat. I'll try again in warmer weather but while it's cold I'm going to stick with the Hobie Sidekick outriggers to keep things upright and dry.

This outrigger system seems great. Light, smallish and stow-able. My first sailing venture with the rudder and outrigger a huge success even though winds where very light. Looking forward to more trips with this combo. I'll post some more pics showing the outriggers better when I get a chance.

Here she is with the Kayaksailer 1.6 sail and genoa.



Dennis

[gbellware]

Thanks Dennis, great pic. the T9 looks absolutely "alive" and in good balance. Safe paddling!
g

[john allsop]

Dennis, the photo is really good, i expect the kayaksailor will propel it with ease and you will find it good on your Aerius 2. Being much easier and quicker than the S4 to rig it may become your sail outfit of choice.

[DasBlauwal4]

Cool photo, how old is your T9? Nice setup!

[DasBlauwal4]

Dennis, My Klepper is sponsonless also, do you use bow and stern airbags?
I'm thinking about making some for mine with leftover pvc vinyl from my outrigger project.

[DLee]

Thanks guys.

John the KS is definitely the go-to sail but there's always something special about taking the time (if you have it) to set up the S4 rig and let her take off. I love them both. You know, you've got a bucket load of sails yourself.

Blauwahl,

I do use flotation bags both fore and aft in the T9. But high on the list of things to do is figure out some flotation for the gunnels. I have found the T9 very difficult to re-enter once it becomes swamped. Filled with water upright orientation is similar to a log. We talk about this a little in the Klepper column - I think the discussion is 'Sailing the T9.' I think some custom sponsons along the gunnels would be great for helping stability when swamped. Love to hear some of your ideas.

If you haven't practiced a water exit/entry with your sponson-less boat, you probably should. I was very surprised how difficult my boat became after being swamped. A little water was no problem, but swamped became a real challenge to get back in and stay upright once inside.

Dennis

[slidegear]

Man D, that boat and the way you rigged it just looks like it's made for each other. Beautiful! Great job.

[DLee]

Thanks Alan,

It's not as cool, but it sure is stress free with the training wheels.

Dennis