What is the standard rig and sail inventory for an Arcona 400?
I'm looking at a used Arcona 400 with a furling genoa and several sail bags listed in the particulars. What rig should it have, and which sails are standard rather than extras added for racing?
Answer
The Arcona 400's usual rig is a fractional sloop with a keel-stepped aluminium mast, swept-back spreaders and a conventional mainsail paired with a genoa. The mainsail and genoa form the basic working wardrobe; spinnakers, asymmetric sails and additional headsails depend on the original order and later owners' choices.
Check the boat's specification
Start with the original equipment schedule, mast identification plate and itemised sail list. A brokerage description saying "standard rig" does not establish which sails are included, their age or whether the boat retains its original equipment.
The Arcona 400 was built over roughly 15 years, with owners equipping it for family cruising and competitive racing. An early boat, such as a 2002 example, may now have replacement standing rigging, a different headsail furler and several generations of sails.
The rig comprises the mast, boom, supporting wires and associated hardware; the sail inventory records the sails supplied with that particular boat. Neither a model brochure nor photographs establish what is in the sail locker.
Mast and rig arrangement
The fractional rig places the forestay attachment below the masthead. Swept-back spreaders support the mast laterally and aft, while backstay adjustment helps control mast bend and forestay tension. Together, these provide control over mainsail shape and headsail performance.
- Mast: normally a keel-stepped aluminium spar, commonly from Seldén. Confirm the manufacturer and section on the yacht itself.
- Boom: a conventional boom with slab reefing is usual. Check the installed reefing lines and matching mainsail cringles.
- Standing rigging: inspect the forestay, shrouds, backstay, terminals and chainplates, and obtain dated replacement invoices.
- Headsail handling: furling systems are common on boats equipped for cruising. Check the fitted foil, drum and sail attachment rather than assuming a particular brand.
The keel-stepped mast warrants a close look at the deck partners, mast boot, heel and step for leaks, corrosion and evidence of movement. Have suspect standing rigging assessed before sailing or sending anyone aloft.
Working sail wardrobe
A practical cruising inventory starts with a serviceable mainsail and a suitable headsail. Full-length mainsail battens are common, but batten layout, cloth and reef positions depend on the individual sail specification.