Hi marc,

I've always thought the best cure for the desire for a bigger boat is a few successive trips to the top of the rig... Every time I get up to those last few feet, I'm reminded I don't ever want to have to go another 5 or 10 feet higher... (grin)

I use a Mast Mate ladder, I feel far more secure with that than any other method, and in general I find it to be the easiest, as well - especially if doing something that requires a few trips up and down in succession... Well-made piece of gear, highly recommended... And between using a chest harness attached to a spare halyard, and the waist belt that wraps around the mast, gives a very secure feeling...

If I have to get outboard to the spreader tips, then I'll hoist myself up using a rigger's harness, and a 3:1 purchase with a ratchet, and one of those Petzl ascenders which greatly improves my grip on the taut line...

best regards,

Jon