Laser XD Traveler Rigging

Here is how to rig the traveler on a laser sailboat

Laser Traveler Setup 1 Laser Traveler Setup 2 Laser Traveler Setup 3 Laser Traveler Setup 4

Traveler Overview

(Click to enlarge) The traveler is an important part of the laser sailboat and must be properly rigged to be competitive at any level. When the traveler is not properly rigged the sail may only be able to sheet in 80-90% and you won't be able to fix it upwind without sheeting out. When the competition is sheeted at 100% and you're at 80-90% upwind you will quickly lose many boat lengths. Even if properly rigged with the wrong type of line the traveler may slip out causing you to lose a percentage of your maximum sheeting capability. You can purchase a racing traveler line cut to size from our store. The length of the traveler line is 11ft.

Traveler Setup

First, tie a bowline in one end of the traveler line. Second, thread the rest of the line through the deck fairleads, traveler block and lastly back through the bowline. Third, pull the line tight and tie two half hitches or a buntline hitch around the bowline loop. The traveler should look like two parallel lines at this step and not a triangle. Forth, thread the end through the traveler cleat and tie a bowline for a handle or an eight knot. The traveler should be kept tight in all sailing conditions in order to maintain proper sail position and maximum sheeting. If the traveler is loose the boom will line up in the center of the boat which will change the flow off the leech from straight back to a high position that will create drag. When the boom is on the centerline there are considerable speed losses in upwind sailing.


Fairlead Condition

It is important to check the condition of your fairleads if you're using the plastic version. Its a good idea to visually inspect them for defects or cracks, you should also check that both of the screws are holding the fairleads down. Be sure to silicon the holes when you replace the fairleads. If either of the screws happen to loosen up the force of the traveler line and main sheet may cause the fairleads to snap when sheeted in block to block. Sometimes you can flip one half around and continue racing and sometimes you have to be creative and figure out a way to sail in. After having a few fairleads break under load while racing I decided to switch to the aluminum version. The aluminum blocks are stronger but they will wear down the traveler line so you need to put rigging tape on the section that makes contact with the fairleads.


Inspecting the traveler cleat

If you're sailing an older boat chances are that its time for a new traveler cleat. If the cleat is starting to chip and allows the traveler to slip out then you're past due for a new one. It the cleat is still functional but is starting to show its age then its a good idea to buy a new one so you can replace it when the old one wears out. Keeping a box of spare parts handy can mean the difference from missing a race to missing a day. I found a nice orange box at home depot for around $5 USD that is great for spare parts and tools. You are going to need a screwdriver at some point so its essential to keep one handy, this goes for any boat.