Hello David and Michiel
A wood clad carbon fibre mast is very tempting, but difficult for me to justify.
Mary Ann has been on Kielder Water continuously since March so I have only had to raise the mast once (this year).
However, if I ever have to replace the mast, or change the way I use the boat, I will take the opportunity to go carbon fibre.
Incidently, the mast on my previous boat (a Winkle Brig) rotted (out of sight) behind the hounds fitting where water was running down the mast and collecting there. The first I knew about it was when the mast top, gaff and mainsail came tumbling down into the cockpit whilst sailing. Fortunately no one was hurt.
To prevent this from happening with the CC19, I have sealed around the top of the hounds fitting (mast band) with silicon sealant.
David, it sounds like you now have the ultimate CC19, inboard diesel and carbon fibre mast. I am looking forward to reading about it when you finish the articles.
Incidently, have you retained the original gaff and boom?
I can see some advantage in a carbon fibre gaff, reduced weight aloft and easier sail raising, but see little advantage in a carbon fibre boom.
Cheers
Dennis
CC19 #100 Mary Ann