Catamaran snuffer kit: understand how a spinnaker snuffer works and how to protect it

What is a catamaran snuffer kit used for?

The snuffer kit is installed at the front of the catamaran, generally along the bowsprit.
Its purpose is to make retrieving the spinnaker easier when lowering the sail.

When the spinnaker is lowered, the sail passes through the snuffer mouth and is stored inside a dedicated sock.

How does a spinnaker snuffer work?

The system is based on three main elements.

1. The snuffer mouth guides the spinnaker during retrieval.
2. The sock stores the sail after it has been lowered.
3. The bowsprit mounting keeps the system in the correct position for use.

The principle is simple: as the spinnaker comes down, it is guided through the snuffer mouth and progressively pulled into the sock.

Why use a spinnaker snuffer?

On a sport catamaran, manoeuvres can follow one another quickly.

Having a dedicated system for retrieving the spinnaker helps keep the sail organised on board and makes it easier to prepare for the next hoist.

It also avoids having to retrieve the entire spinnaker directly onto the trampoline every time the sail is lowered.

How is the Forward Sailing Snuffer Kit designed?

The Forward Sailing Spinnaker Snuffer Kit has a length of 2.90 m, adjustable down to 2.65 m.

Its black anodised aluminium mouth is compatible with bowsprits with a diameter of 40 mm or 50 mm.

The sock combines two complementary materials.

1. An upper section made from grey UV-treated PVC fabric.
2. A lower mesh section designed to allow water drainage.

What should you check before installing a snuffer kit?

Before ordering a snuffer system, it is important to check its compatibility with your catamaran.

1. Bowsprit diameter
   The Forward Sailing model is compatible with 40 mm or 50 mm diameter bowsprits.
2. Available length
   The system measures 2.90 m and can be adjusted down to 2.65 m.
3. Boat configuration
   The installation must be suitable for your catamaran, bowsprit and spinnaker system.

Why protect your snuffer kit?

The snuffer kit is installed outside the boat.

When the catamaran remains rigged between sailing sessions, the system can stay exposed to outdoor conditions and UV rays.

A dedicated cover allows you to protect the kit when it is not in use without having to remove the complete system after every session.

Good practices for your spinnaker snuffer

1. Regularly check that the spinnaker moves freely through the snuffer mouth and sock.
2. Avoid leaving a wet sail stored inside the system for long periods.
3. Regularly check the mounting of the kit on the bowsprit.
4. When the catamaran remains rigged ashore, protect exposed equipment whenever possible.

Snuffer kit and cover: two complementary products

The Snuffer Kit and its cover meet two different needs in the use of the boat.

The first makes spinnaker handling easier while sailing.
The second protects the system when the catamaran is not in use.

Before choosing your equipment, first check your bowsprit diameter, the required length and your catamaran configuration.