Harken: Thistle Deck Layout

TECH CORNER
thistle

Designed in 1945 by Sandy Douglass for racing and daysailing, the 17' Thistle has been recognized by U.S. Sailing as one of the most active one-design classes in the United States. This family-friendly boat features a plumb bow, straight sheer, thin rails and no decking and carries a lot of sail for its size, planing easily in 10-12 knots of wind. The rounded bottom provides stability, making it ideal for beginners. Since its introduction, the Thistle has changed very little. Thistle #1 is still competitive and not too long ago won the National Championships.

Harken part numbers link to Harken on-line store.

vang
The 8:1 vang system ends at the center of the boat so it is easily accessible both upwind and downwind. Like any vang on a boat with a mainsail of such proportional power, vang tension helps control leach shape as measured by the top batten position, and allows the mainsheet to function as a secondary traveler.

mainsheet system
The efficient 3:1 mainsheet system features a 40 mm switchable ratchet on the boom that can be turned to manage heavy loads. Easily opening and closing the leach at the top of the sail is considered the Thistle's single most important adjustment for maintaining optimum hull speed.

mainsheet traveler control system
This 2:1 transom-mounted systems features low-profile track and traveler car rigged with top-mounted sheaves. Double-ended controls on the trunk cap allow crew to trim from the rail.

Link:
Thistle class website: www.thistleclass.com/