Delta Drogues
Speed-limiting and steering assist Drogue for small craft.
Speed-limiting Drogues can be of immense value in strong following seas and have been used to stabilize craft since antiquity. No doubt there are many yachts sailing today that would have gone down had it not been for some sort of device that slowed the boat down. Still these must be used with knowledge and warning that the insufficient drag of a speed-limiting drogue will not prevent pitchpole in the heaviest storms, especially those packing Extreme Storm Waves, rogues and "Three Sisters" type developments.
Towed off the stern with a bridle a speed-limiting Drogue can be used as an emergency steering device to yaw the boat if steering fails.
Towed off the windward quarter a speed-limiting Drogue can help maintain directional stability while negotiating a dangerous harbor entrance.
Towed off the stern of a vessel in tow a Drogue can all but eliminate the "whiplash" effect and contribute to better control by the towing vessel.
These drogue uses the "guide surface principle". The design is a triangular "Delta" shape that provides strong uniform flow separation at all leading edges. Shape retention is achieved by the pressure of the water inside (similar to the "Ballute" drogues used in aerospace applications). The relatively small mouth at the leading edge makes it extremely unlikely that one will get turned inside out (a problem associated with large cones and small parachute drogues). Also, the three ears of the DELTA Drogue have the effect of increasing the Drogue's drag as speed increases.
These drogues are extremely simple in design and construction - made from heavy duty vinyl coated material. They are available in five sizes designed for best boat control for a range of boat sizes.
Drogue Size 96"
Boat Size LOA Up to 55-Feet
Weight 9 Lbs.
Stowed Dimensions 12" x 12" x 4"
Sold individually