[spock38019]

I have thought about the idea of a removable inner forestay. Adding this to my Hunter 30 would entail reinforcing the foredeck with a cable leading through the vee-birth through the cabin sole to the keep. Running backstays would be needed to reinforce the mast, as noted in another response to the "cutter" conversion question. When you figure the cost of the boat modifications, the cost of a new, custom sail, the unknown change in performance, etc. it is probably not worth the hassle. Much better to spend the money on other things, or get a different boat if a cutter is desired (I agree with the comments of the other responders). One option instead of another forestay would be a "gale" sail (made by ATN) which mounts over the furled headsail and which can perform in heavy weather, with or without a storm trysail. But I guess I am getting off the topic; the owner of the Mac 26 wanted better upwind performance. Probably with that design, the best upwind performance would be with the existing sail plan but with new, good quality sails. Turning on the motor would also help.