Time for a new Genoa

[Jim]

I've got a 1990 standard rig and the genoa should have been replaced years ago.  I currently have the 135 with the aeroluff system and I'm told it isn't available anymore. I'm just a cruiser.

Catalina wants $1531 and 8 weeks for a new sail.  National Sails is quoting $1199 and 3 weeks.  I haven't heard back from Hood or Doyle yet.

Can anyone talk me out of saving a few bucks on the National sail?  Do I spend an extra $133 for the Luff Foam option?  Do I bump up to a 150%?

Thanks,

Jim

[tandm]

It all depends on what is important too you.  If your only consideration is price then buy the cheapest sail you can find.  If you are interested in the best value or making your boat easier to handle then the cheapest may not be the answer. And then there is performance, durability and service during and after the sale to consider.

I needed to fit a new genoa into a budget but I was also wanted someone to come out measure my boat.  I wanted the sail to match the way my boat is rigged.  This meant using a loft with at least a local sales person. I do not race either but I do enjoy sail trimming and getting the boat to sail fast. I found the best combination of value, performance and service at a local UK sail loft. While 3 of 6 lofts came in with around the same price for a similar sail, I chose UK because the local owner has a good reputation for service after the sale.

I purchased a 150% Dacron genoa because we tend to have a lot of 10 knt. days in the summertime.  I went with a foam luff because we tend to have stronger winds the rest of the year.  I found that I can sail comfortably, single-handed up to 18 knts apparent with a full genny.  With the genny reefed to the reefing stripe, I am good to about 22 knts.  Above that I switch sails. (I am not sure it matters much but "Peregine" does have the tall rig.)

UK Dacron sails, like other sail loft's "high end" Dacron sails are made with a cloth that stretches less than "standard" Dacron sails. This has several theoretical advantages including longer sail life and less healing. But of course it does cost more.

I can recommend reading the book "Maximum Sail Power" by Brian Hancock.  It covers everything from buying to trimming sails.

[Mike Smith]

Jim -

Be sure to give Schurr Sails in Pensacola, FL a call at (850) 438-9354. Excellent quality, good price, and super service.

Mike

[Joe Nalley]

Mike,

Glad you recommended Shurr Sails in Pensacola.  Alfred Shurr and Hunter Riddle both made trips to our marina, Pirate's Cove.  We have a great fitting 150 with the luff pad.

Joe

[jeff]

Ditto for Schurr sails. Had a 155 made with foam luff and sun cover for about $1800 two years ago. Sail cut full for light air. Light air performance improvement dramatic.
Jeff
1990 #1102
C34

[isabel98]

I'd take the national sail and get it right away ove the phone. 3 weeks is pretty quick. get the 150,or 155 so you can just cruise with the genny if you want. my 34 will just about reach hull speed off the wind pretty quickly with just the genny. I will probably do the same thing in June ,so if you use national, let me know how it goes. Catalina is good for original equip., but eight weeks means 10 or twelve to them. too long to wait when the boat is in the water. BD

[Jim]

Everyone:  Thanks for the input.  I just ordered a 142% Doyle tri-radial 265 square weave dacron with a rope luff.  I wasn't that comfortable ordering a sail from Thailand (National Sails) to begin with but when I spoke to the local Doyle guy and discussed my price concerns he gave me a discount and the upgrade in design and fabric.  So I'm paying more and left feeling good about it.  What a sales guy!  Quoted 5 weeks.

He also talked me into splitting the difference between the 135% and 150% and going with the 142% based on local wind conditions and intended use.

Jim

[Mike Smith]

Joe Nalley and Jeff -

Don't know if you are local to the Pensacola area, but you may be interested in joining Fleet 8. I tried e-mailing you but it bounced.

Mike

[Ben]

Jim
What was the price and what was the Dacron weight that will be used. I am looking to replace my 150 also.

[Jim]

Hi Ben -

Sorry, got busy for a few days.  I was told that the 265 square weave dacron is about 6.5 oz.  Price was $2,500.

Jim