description
The “Papillon” (French for butterfly) sail geometry is constructed from a 60 degree arc, Two spars are attached to a small mast the sail is shaped by small one meter battens.
The Papillion is a synthesis of several sails: “crab claw” from Indonesia, Chinese Junk rig and the Houari rig from Europe. The Papillion can also be compared to a Lateen sail and has elements from the Bermuda rig,
This efficient unstayed rig can be set up in few minutes.This is a novel rig that can be easily handled with simple equipment, it can be adjusted in every direction
orientation (lateral, longitudinal and transversal). It will allow you to explore a multitude of configurations.
This safe sail can be used in gusty conditions without reefing when operated like a kite. Moreover, the sail area can be easily reefed without any complicated manoeuvres
I have developed a number of different models designed to fit anything from a small dinghy with cat-boat rig up to a classic keel yacht of 14 meters length.
