Fastfriend, Nice job, I like your multi-cat design. For my H18, I tied permanent loops around the crossbars (gap between the tramp and hulls) and I simply clip the pole support line to the loops with aluminum carabiners. The carabiners serve a dual purpose as they help keep my pole centered and in place when stowed (see pic). But I suppose your tie-around-the-hull method better supports your multi-cat design, huh?
I, too, mostly sail solo and the pole gives me a lot of confidence that I otherwise wouldn't have. And hey, what fun would it be if you weren't testing your limits?
Very nicely done!
Here's a nearly finished picture to help paint a picture. Total cost for the tubing, rope, clips, anti-slip tape, bungies and welding came to about $130 (Click to Enlarge)....
The "T" section was cut at an angle and welded on....
Stowed under the tramp. Blue pocket in the front is a lacrosse mesh...
Aft view - bungied around the deadeye and clipped to the rear tramp lacing (H18)....
Support line runs through here. Holes are located about 4 1/2' from the boat....
Original clear lexan plate broke and I replaced it with a simple hinge. The hinge slips into my daggerboard well to hold the pole in place....