Windcraft Multihulls recently completed a performance-focused upgrade on Corsair 970 #16, giving this already capable performance cruiser a noticeable boost in power, responsiveness, and light-air performance.
The project was completed in collaboration with Randy Smyth of Smyth Sails and focused primarily on increasing sail area while maintaining the balance and usability that make the Corsair 970 such a versatile trimaran. The mainsail area was increased by approximately 20%, while the jib/blade was increased by about 18%.
This upgrade was made possible in large part by the Corsair 970’s long boom and aft-traveler configuration. That design gave the team room to safely carry additional sail area without compromising the boat’s overall handling characteristics.
One of the biggest questions going into the project was helm balance. Adding sail area can sometimes create additional weather helm, but the results have been excellent. The helm position feels dialed in, with no meaningful increase in weather helm.
The upgraded sail plan was also paired with several key supporting upgrades, including a Colligo ELHF system, a 2:1 mainsail halyard, and a 2:1 screacher halyard. Together, these updates help the boat handle the increased loads and make the sail plan more efficient and manageable.
The performance gains have been impressive. In solid breeze, the boat is seeing upwind speeds of approximately 12.5 knots while still maintaining very respectable wind angles. The biggest improvement, however, is in light air. Where the Corsair 970 previously felt a bit sluggish, the upgraded sail plan now makes the boat feel powerful, responsive, and much more engaging.
The Corsair 970 was never intended to be an all-out race boat. It is a performance cruiser, designed with larger, more buoyant floats and comfortable accommodations. That balance is what makes the model so appealing. This upgrade wakes the boat up without taking away from the core strengths that make the 970 such a practical and enjoyable cruising trimaran.
For sailors who want a boat that can cruise comfortably but still deliver real performance when conditions allow, this setup is a fantastic example of what is possible. It is especially well suited for cruising grounds like the Florida Keys or the Bahamas, where light-air capability, speed, comfort, and shallow-water versatility all matter.
Overall, this Corsair 970 performance upgrade shows how thoughtful sail plan and rigging improvements can make an already strong platform even more rewarding to sail.
