Hi Tim,
You are correct. The Nonsuch mast is too far forward to consider a junk rig unless you add a mizzen. FYI when Jorgen Moller and I chose the standing gaff rig for our boats we experimented with using it as a lugsail prior to rigging it as a standing gaff. Apart from the sail plan being too far forward, we found that it was too much work dropping and stowing the sail, especially when sailing single handed. In addition, it would have been necessary to add a mizzen. Our objectives were to simplify the rig and improve safety so we stuck with the standing gaff which has proved to be extremely well balanced in light to heavy winds. As a result we have full control in winds of more than 30 knots without reefing, but for comfort we tend to reef by 25 knots.
Mascouche with her standing gaff rig. The bimini has been folded forward.
Pondus 26 #33 sailing with an experimental lugsail.
It gave great flexibility going downwind, but a handful in a breeze!
Pondus with her standing gaff rig. The luff is 7 feet shorter than the standard Nonsuch sail with a 5’ shorter foot
Note the clear lines of sight due to the boom being mounted 4’ above the deck
Cheers,
John Newell
Mascouche 26C 1 Toronto