34.1: Code 0 or Spinnaker?

[toastysailor]

I have a 2023 Oceanis 34.1. Due to the location of the shrouds, I am extremely limited in how far out I can put the mainsail. This is of particular concern when running.

I am considering getting a code 0 or a spinnaker. My understanding is that a Code 0 might work better when reaching, and fairly good when running, but the spinnaker would work better running, and less well at other points of sail.

Is my understanding correct? Any pointers or suggestions on how to determine which type to get?

 

[shemandr]

The Code 0 is a reaching sail. Maybe close reaching. It has a beautiful shape but a relatively narrow window of effectiveness. Unless you are racing with crew, I think an asymmetric spinnaker would be more versatile.
With swept back spreaders you are not supposed to sail DDW, although I did it often on my H356. You are supposed to jibe your way downwind keeping the boat above the downwind "Cliff" (That is the angle of which the boat speed drops precipitously).
Code 0's have enjoyed great publicity but I am at a loss to understand why. I've watched racing boat lose tens of places trying to fly this sail when it just wasn't in the cards. Nevertheless, the guy who bought it wanted to show off his new pony.

 

[jssailem]

Is my understanding correct?

Yes. You are correct.
I’m partial to the code 0 as I find them more versatile than a spinnaker for a cruiser.

That said, the asymmetrical, as @shemandr identifies does have a wider arch of sailing wind angles. When I decided I needed one more sail, I added the asymmetrical not a code 0. I found the range to be from about 80 to 160 degrees True in a light breeze.

 

[SoSound]

We replaced the included asymmetrical spinnaker that came with our Oceanis 34 with a code 0, and we have been very happy with it. We are more casual cruisers, we don't race, and we find the sail to be versatile enough for the way we use it. Our first boat was a First 285 which had a larger jib, relatively speaking, and it performed much better in our light summer wind. We purchased the code 0 so that we could enjoy more warm, light wind summer days sailing rather than motoring. It's given us just what we had hoped for, and we don't need to raise it and stow it for every use.

 

[Dr. D]

This may help.

 

[shemandr]

Well I have to admit I am surprised by the range of wind angles the Neil Pryde code 0 can be flown.
The Beneteau application is new to me and looks like a good sail plan strategy.
And I failed to mention that the incidents I have witnessed of racing boats struggling with the code 0 are more in the 15 to 18 knot range. Those sails were made of modern laminate type materials and very stiff. When the sail would re-fill after a collapse it would sound like a rifle shot.
I think it was a different animal.