CLAGETT SAILING

Sonar

What kind of sailboat is a Sonar, and what are the features of this boat?

Sonars are a triple handed keelboat raced by both adaptive and able bodied sailors. The Sonar is used by sailors who enjoy a team mentality, who are often interested in racing in addition to cruising. The Sonar has a mileu of possible adaptions. Several are described below.

The video below shows both a transfer bench and an swiveling adapted Sonar seat (although the sound quality is poor),

The Sip and Puff joystick steering system is an option that helps individuals with limited mobility steer the Sonar. Find information on what a Sip and Puff system is, and where to purchase one.

Other adaptions include Stability bars and drop in seats are also used in tandem in the Sonar to help crew and skipper move from side to side as the boat sails.

Sonars also have different seating options, including:

• Mid-Boat Seat: This seat is installed towards the center of the Sonar and is designed to accomodate individuals using Sip and Puff systems. The seat can be positioned from side to side using cleats.

• Gimbaled Mid-Boat Seat: The gimbaled seat sits lower in the boat and swivels to keep the Skipper upright as the boat heels.

Resources:

• For general information, and to purchase a Sonar, visit Rondar Raceboats.

• Other possible adaptions include changing the main sheet purchase and the location of the mainsheet block. Purchase adjustments are covered on page 50 of US Sailing's Adaptive Sailing Resource Manual.