Diane and I have been down the Trent Severn system from Trenton to Port Severn and the Lake Simcoe to Port Severn a number of times as well as the Rideau system 3 times. We posted this cockpit modification with photo. This has enabled us to step our mast as we go through the canals. The mast tip comes close to the 20' maximum bridge clearance but not too close. We can raise the mast and attach the boom and be ready to sail in less than 30 minutes. This has been a great compromise. You should be aware that if there are low lying power lines and it is moist, humid and hot there may be an induced charge on your wheel so take care. Good sailing.
Consider the Rideau Canal as it is the canal's 175 anniversary and last week it was honoured by being named Canada's 14th World Heritage Site by UNESZCO
Mike Purdy Jedaro
EXTENDED MAST SUPPORT CRUTCH FOR DOWSAR FULL ENCLOSURE
MIKE AND DIANE PURDY—‘JEDARO’
For power cruising on the Rideau and Trent Canal systems during black fly and mosquito seasons as well as during inclement weather we had the following modification made for Jedare, our 26X.
1. A metal shop fabricated a longer crutch with roller to hold the mast when it was stepped. (71 ½” to axle of roller). The stepped mast is now approximately 16-18 feet high enabling the boat to get below all bridges and power lines in the Rideau and Trent canal systems. Because of the extra height and resulting instability in wake etc., the mast is lashed down at each side with non stretch roof top straps and the mast raising system takes part of the weight of the mast. We encountered absolutely no problems during our trips. Cost $60. CDN.
2. Our boat has a full enclosure, made by Dowsar (Hamilton). The stepped mast on the new crutch is higher than the dodger and transition unit between the bimini and dodger. The transition unit was taken to a sail maker who installed a double zipper going ½ way across so that both zippers can be tightened against the higher crutch to prevent leakage during heavy rain. Cost $20 CDN. This modification made it possible to go through the canal systems with the mast stepped AND have a full enclosure. We were both dry and bug-free and could now stand and move around without banging into mast and shrouds.
3We now rate the Dowsar enclosure incredible and well worth the money with this mod as it doubles the living space on the boat. As well with the windows closed the sun heats the boat especially after sunrise and during sunset. After talking to John Pegg at Dowsar, we discovered that they are now doing a modification along these lines (higher crutch/modified transition unit). See photo.