mast climbing

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mikemacdonald

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Littlehampton, W. Sussex
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Its getting increasingly difficult to get up the mast. I believe there is a ladder that goes up the track called Maststep or something.Is it any good or is there something better, and how much please, can it be used single handedly. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif
 
Get-Up mast ladder...

I have a Get-Up mast ladder. Very substantial webbing, easy to stow, and it works. Best to wear strong-soled shoes for comfort.
 
Re: Get-Up mast ladder...

I saw this guy up a mast in Bowness. Couldn't see how he got up there and there wasn't anyone else to be seen on the boat. It was also blowing a fresh f3.
I guess he was a pro rigger.

upmast.jpg
 
Re: Get-Up mast ladder...

I have a Mast-mate which I had to get from the US which allows me to climb up unaided. The unit has mast slugs that match those on the mainsail.

You simply attach the main halyard to the Mast-mate and pull it up, feeding in the slugs to the mast track. I normally also attach the topping lift for extra security. After tying off the halyards securely, its just a matter of climbing up the straps. The unit came with a waist belt that goes round the mast and gives added security.
 
Re: Get-Up mast ladder...

If you want something simple then how about a long line and 2 blocks, 1 double & 1 single ... create a 3:1 purchase with it, attaching the single block to your bosuns chair ... hoist the double block to the top with the main halyard. Connect the topping lift to your bosus chair and away you go ... just get someone to take the slack up on the topping lift - pref through a cleat.
I started using this method last year and even with a short line that will only allow me to go 1/2 way (then hoist again) I can be up and down the mast in a matter of minutes. Comfortable, quick, not really effortless - but then what system is! Oh - and Cheap!
 
Re: Get-Up mast ladder...

I use the spinaker halyard, with the tail going through carabiner on a climbing harness. 2:1 purchase to get up, lock off around the crab at the top, abseil back down. You can do it solo, but it is a certain amount of work. If I have a crew member they simply tail on winch as I go up and allow me a rest if I need it.
 
Same as pvb I have the get - up ladder.
Very easy to use.
I have been up my mast a few times this season on my own.
There is a separate strap to tie yourself off at the top. I also wear a harness for added security once at the top so I can happily work with both hands.
Only disadvantage is you have to remove the first few slides of the main above the mast gate to get the ladder slides in.
Trickiest part is climbing on top of boom with the main sail still furled.
All-in-all the ladder was worth every penny IMHO.
 
"Its getting increasingly difficult to get up the mast"

You don't say why.
Weight?
Age?
Knee joints?

If it is any of the above, then you need a 'mechanical device' to winch you up.
I'm no lightweight, so I use the spinnaker halyard, one turn on the mast winch then down to the electric anchor windlass.
So unfortunately a two person job, but the second person doesn't need any skill, just a vested interest in keeping you safe /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
 
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