TOPCAT Workshops

The TOPCAT workshops offer you the best possible support so that nothing stands in the way of your sailing experience!

This year we have planned a series of workshops for you. The workshops are designed for you to review, deepen and gain new sailing knowledge that you can apply on the water.

For this purpose we have divided them into different levels, so that you have the possibility to improve your sailing skills step by step. The different levels can of course also be attended individually, but we recommend for beginners to attend the workshops in the given order.

 

The workshop levels are structured as follows:

  • Level 1 Basics
  • Level 2 Harness
  • Level 3 Reacher
  • Level 4 Trim&Tricks

 

In the workshops we want to show you all the important aspects of your TOPCAT, so that you can safely handle any situation on the water with your TOPCAT without any problems. In the future we will add more topics to the workshops.

The workshops will take place on land and will give you an introduction in every aspect for upcoming situations on the water. We will show you step by step all the details of the TOPCAT on land and you will get the chance to ask us questions about your problems. A central theme of the workshops will be the dry land exercises. The advantage of the simulations is that you can learn from each other and get feedback from us on how you can improve your procedures. Internalizing the sequences on land will lead you to be able to recall them on the water and enjoy sailing to the fullest.

Participation in the workshop is free for members of the class association and every KV member has the option to attend the workshops as often as possible!

Linked to the workshops are trainings, which are structured according to the same levels. This gives you the opportunity to try out, train and consolidate your knowledge gained from the workshop on the water. A TOPCAT staff member will accompany you on the water.

 

In the Workshop Level 1 Basics we will discuss the basics of your TOPCAT with you and explain them in an understandable way. We want to teach you the features of your boat in a simple and  logical way, so that you feel safe on your TOPCAT at all times.

We will talk about the following content:

  • Adjustment of the TOPCAT rudder system
  • Presentation of the courses to the wind
  • The adjustment of the sails and the traveler
  • The sitting position on the boat
  • Demonstration of the maneuvers (dry runs)
  • How to behave when capsizing

 

In workshop level 2 harness we will talk with you the basics and techniques of harness sailing. With our harness station in our showroom you have the possibility to practice independently. We will be at your side with feedback.

We will talk about the following content:

  • Choosing the right trapeze pants
  • How/when do I go into the harness?
  • How does the foresailer go into the harness?
  • How does the helmsman go into the harness?
  • What do I have to pay attention to in the harness?
  • How do I behave during maneuvers?
  • How do I get back on the hull?

 

The Level 3 Reacher/Rollgennaker Workshop offers beginners and advanced sailors the opportunity to learn about the Reacher and Rollgennaker system or to refresh and get to know the knowledge. 

We will talk about the following content:

  • How do I set up the Reacher/Rollgennaker?
  • How do I set up the Reacher/Rollgennaker correctly?
  • How do I set and recover the Reacher/Rollgennaker?
  • How do I sail with the reacher/roll gennaker?
  • How do I dismantle my reacher/roll gennaker?

 

The workshop level 4 trim/tricks offers advanced sailors the opportunity to discuss the different trim options on their TOPCAT.

We will talk about the following content:

  • Which trim settings do I choose in different wind conditions?
  • How do I adjust the jib cleats?
  • How do I tension the sail battens?
  • How do I adjust the rig?
  • How do I adjust the outhall traveller?
  • How do I handle the weight trim in light and heavy wind?

 

You have the possibility to ask your questions. We will answer all your questions. We will also give you information about the TOPCAT community and how you can become a member.

It is important to us that you internalize the knowledge gained, which is why we will provide you with a checklist so that you are well prepared the next time you go sailing.

We would like to invite you to the TOPCAT workshops!

The workshops will take place in the showroom of the TOPCAT shipyard.

Drinks will be available for you. The TOPCAT team will be ready for you.

We are looking forward to your visit!