Can someone explain to this novice capri owner (mod 1) the physics behind a fractional rig. What is the benefit of not having the jib go all the way to the top of the mast like the main?
Most modern big boats now have fractional rigs. The Capri is a main driven boat. The jib helps balance out the helm up wind and adds sail area down wind. The disadvantage of a mast head jib is you have to make the main smaller. The turbulent flow off of the jib would back wind the main too much.