We are replacing our original 1976 wood mast on Calypso with an aluminum mast supplied by Selden. The new mast should be delivered at the end of March (2021). Selden will have our mast design on file if any other BCCs wish to investigate a similar project. There are a few caveats though. Calypso does not have the 4" Delrin mast step block in the bilge - and I do not intend to install one. So the “bury” measurement will differ from “standard”. Also, the Selden mast will use their standard mast head sheave box arrangement - which differs from the Forepsar mast which mounted the sheaves about a foot below the mast head. Happy to share further details and answer any questions folks might have about our experience as we undertake this project.
Hi, My name is Mike and I’m in the process of buying a BBC in North Carolina .The boat is a bit of a project but was professionally finished from a hull. It’s all there except for the wood mast that sadly rotted away. The previous owner saved all the bronze hardware as well as precise measurements. In any case I have started looking for a replacement and saw that you had used Selden for yours and have not been able to find any drawings of the aluminum mast yet and was hopeful you might steer me to where they may be found? I was also wondering what became of your wooden mast or if it were salvageable. Mine was 44’ 6 over all box construction. Many thanks! Mike
Thank you very much, just what I was looking for. Any idea (ballpark figure) on what Selden gets for such a mast? The taper looks expensive! Many thanks!
Hi Mike. Calypso’s original wood mast went to the “Restoring Rosalind” project (link below). Selden US does not make tapered spars. So you lose that bit of elegance. If you pursue the Selden option, you’ll have to work through a Selden dealer (rigger or sail loft) as Selden US generally don’t direct-sell. Pricing will depend on many factors and options. E.g. whether new standing and running rigging are included; spin pole and track; winch pads and cleats; wiring and lighting; delivery charges; dealer markup; rigging work post delivery (eg installing winch bases and mast head gear); rigging work and crane time to step the mast; new furler(s); new or modified sails. There will also be significant structural work to install the deck ring and mast step that comes with your new mast.
There are other spar manufacturers you could solicit quotes from. Sadly, Forespar exited the spar business quite some time ago.
Overall, I think you can expect this project to come in around $20-30k possibly more depending on how much work you do yourself.
Thank you very much for all the information Jeremy! I’m going to scout around for the appropriate section used and take it from there. Fortunately I have access to a machine shop, welders and all the rest as well as the skills to do it. Sadly the cost of boat ownership has risen beyond the grasp of many “middle class” would be boaters. We spend it all at the grocery store… best regards, Mike
