Rigging, spars & sails
The restoration of a classic sailing yacht
Peter Martin
Whilst we were busy working on Maybird’s frames, floors and hull planking we also got underway with other aspects of her restoration. Peter Martin (www.martinsrigging.com) was responsible for the design, supply and fitting of her rigging. As we were returning her to her original gaff rig, Peter’s input was critical. Under Peter’s guidance, a decision was made to replace all her spars. Her mizzen mast had already snapped in half on a windy night on the River Hamble and the main mast was also suspect so the decision was made to replace it. Peter has worked on most of the classic restorations in Europe over the last 20 years.
Bob Snow
Bob Snow (www.maritimeiow.co.uk / 01983 761 784) was selected to provide all of Maybird’s spars. Bob’s workshop is at Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight and the spars were made of Columbian pine. Bob previously worked for the legendary Harry Spencer and like Peter has worked on many classic restorations.
Andrew Cassell
Maybird’s original sails were made by Ratsey and Lapthorn (www.ratseysails.co.uk) in 1937 and were used for her voyage to New Zealand in 1972. The age of her existing sails together with the change of rig required a new sail wardrobe and so Andy Cassell of Ratsey’s joined our team as sailmaker. Andy and Ratsey’s are highly regarded in the classic yacht fraternity and as an experienced sailor himself, Olympic gold medallist 1996, his input to the project has been vital.
