Boom vs. Mast Furling in Same Model

[Sam Kramer]

At the Atlantic City Sailboat Show last week I noticed that the Cataline 350 (and probably other models) offered either a mast or a boom furling system. I knew both existed but I thought a boat would be designed with either one or the other in mind. I didn't realize either could be chosen on some boats.I imagine that whichever of the two systems is more expensive is therefore the preferred method, and I'd further guess that the mast furling system is preferred so that a heavier boom isn't required (although I see some drawbacks of a mainsail being wrapped vertically).Would someone direct me to web pages or sailing article comparing the two mainsail furling systems, as well as providing any personal opinions?Thanks,Sam

 

[Trevor - SailboatOwners.com]

Criteria in comparing boom vs. mast furling

Hi Sam -As a side note, things that cost more aren't necessarily better in all cases! As for comparing boom vs. mast furling, there are many factors to consider.Mast furling requires less precision, as there are less revoltions of the roller than with a boom furler. Mainsail mast furling has been around a lot longer. However, one of the biggest drawbacks, besides extra sail weight aloft when reefing (as well as a heavier spar), is that you lose roach and battens. A standard mainsail will perform better in all cases than a furling main (mast furling) - the gap is reduced on a reach, but never fully closes. A boom furling system allows extra roach since horizontal battens can be rolled into the boom with the sail. They add thickness, but it's a significant improvement in performance. My main (no pun intended) concern is the precision with which the sail needs to be rolled to avoid bunching up at one or the other end. Another concern is longevity: as a sail ages, the fabric stretches, so the shape won't maintain the same roll properties over time.Both Forespar (Leisurefurl) and Schaefer now offer furling booms. I'd look into them, as I believe the idea gives sailors the best of both worlds in my opinion, but I'm not certain the technology is quite ready for prime time.Just my opinion - I'm sure there are many others!Best,Trevor

 

[John]

Boom Furling on 350

When I purchased my 350 in September 2002, the boom furling option from Catalina was $7,000. The standard main was either an in-mast furling main or a fully-battened main with Dutchman flaking system.I opted for the fully-battened main. At $7,000, the boom furler was more money than I wanted to pay for technology that was fairly new.

 

[Bayard Gross]

Boom furling is really not that new

The original boom furling designs, which were used many years ago, wrapped the main sail onto the outside of the boom.The disadvantage to this simple design is that there is generally no provision for a boom vang and you must have end boom as opposed to mid boom sheeting. While a boom vang could conceivably be used when the main is fully hoisted, it would need to be removed when reefed. However, when reefed sail twist is probably important so that a vang is not very desirable.I always felt that if main sail furling were so desirable, then many more boats would have used this furling system despite its draw backs in as much as headsail furlers are quite popular despite their drawbacks. However, the advantages of mid-boom sheeting, a boom vang, and a better main sail preempted the advantages of furling.The new boom furling designs wrap the sail into the boom. This provides a cover for the sail, the ability to attach a solid vang, and mid boom sheeting.Hence, as the original mainsail furling was done on the boom and as the newer systems have eliminated the disadvantages of the original designs, I think it is logical to use in boom furling on the main.