When we bought Beatitude, almost one year ago, the surveyor observed that our trampolines would most likely need to be replaced with the next year. How right he was! You may recall that the day we returned from our six-day adventure, I fell through our port-side trampoline. The elements, especially the UV exposure from the sun, over 6 or 7 years have taken their toll on both trampolines. Ripping a big hole in one of the two was the impetus for ordering new ones.

My near descent into the marina waters through the trampoline

Decisions, decisions! There are a number of options when buying trampolines for a catamaran. There are web nets made of 1-2″ strapping material, mesh nets, and open nets. These nets come in various degrees of “openness” and in various materials and colors. Our previous nets were open nets with a rather low degree of openness (the amount of open space one sees when looking down at the nets). Cindy and I decided to go with open netting once again, but increased the openness of the nets. We also went for a “pacific blue” color, instead of the white of the former trampolines.

The trampolines came in the day after Cindy left for Ohio for 2+ weeks to visit family. I’ve spent significant chunks of my spare time since then, attempting to install them. I took pictures of the old before removing them as a guide. Unfortunately, the trampolines do not come with installation instructions, so basically one just has to wing it. And wing it, I’ve done. (I tried to call the maker of the trampolines for advice, but the only person there who knows anything about it is on vacation for a couple of weeks. Oh well!). After several trips to West Marine and Lowe’s to gather materials, I dove in.

The Original (Starboard side)

Port trampoline partially removed

The old and new side by side on deck

The new port trampoline ready to be installed.

At this time, the trampolines are mostly installed. I still need to tighten them a little bit and secure all knots. I’m a little concerned the starboard tramp seems a little smaller than the port tramp, but I’m hoping that I just need to stretch it more. We’ll see.

Installation nearly complete except for some additional tightening and securing the knots.

Both trampolines in place.