Bad Toad - Tony Castro Quarter Tonner

Bad Toad: Quarter Tonner Keel Alignment and Sail Design Survey

NautiData carried out a 3D laser survey of Bad Toad, a Tony Castro-designed Quarter Tonner competing in the Solent. The brief was to check the alignment of her mast and keel and produce accurate drawings to support her racing preparation and sail design.

With the yacht supported ashore on her trailer, we scanned from positions around the hull and on deck. This allowed us to capture the underwater profile alongside the deck layout, while recording the mast and rig in the same measured dataset.

The individual scans were combined into a detailed 3D point cloud. From this, we could examine the relationship between the keel and mast without relying on visual alignment checks alone.

We also produced accurate deck plans showing the cockpit arrangement. These gave the team a measured record of the existing layout, providing a useful reference for discussing the boat’s setup and any proposed alterations.

A sectional elevation recorded the mast’s profile in relation to the hull and mainsail. Particular attention was given to mast rake and pre-bend, providing the sailmaker with measured information to help match the mainsail’s shape to the rig.

Bringing these elements together meant the survey served several purposes. It supported the alignment checks while providing practical drawings for the team preparing the yacht and the sailmaker developing her sails.

Bad Toad went on to enjoy significant racing success in the Solent. We were pleased to contribute to her preparation, combining our sailing knowledge with 3D laser scanning to provide information that could be put to practical use ashore and on the racecourse.