Comp Tips

In reading various posts the term "comp tip" has appeared several times. Could someone explain the history of these and what benefit they provide over a single mast? Do they have a useful life shorter than the aluminum masts? What problems are seen with them? I'm looking forward to many years of sailing my Getaway and I the more I know about the boat the better.

Thanks,

Barry Martin

Every Hobie Cat built in the USA since the mid 80's has had a CompTip upper mast. This is a safety feature to hel;p prevent electrocution if the mast contacts a high power line during sailing, rigging or moving the boat.

From the FAQ section of the forums:

A CompTip is the upper section of Hobie masts built starting in / after 1986 (Hobie started with Hobie 16's and later all models). They are fiberglass and non-conductive. They were designed to prevent electrocution by contact with a high power line. Thousands of older Hobie Cats were retrofitted with the CompTip.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

There should be no difference in useful life if the Comptip is maintained properly. It should be protected from the sun when the boat is not being used. It's plastic and fiberglass and will crack and / or shatter if it's dropped repeatedly (aluminum will bend, so there's really no difference there).

It needs a little more care than an all-aluminum mast, but it's worth having the safety factor.

Thanks for the school session. I have a lot to learn about these boats so I really appreciate the information.

Barry Martin