Dutchman Sail Handling System

[Phil D.]

Anyone have any experience with a Dutchman sail handling system? Pros & Cons?

 

[Steve Dion]

Dutchman is great!

Phil:I have had two Dutchman systems on my boat. The only real negative thing about them is the cost. They are also not recommended for an old sail.It makes getting the sail ready to sail and dropping the sail at the end of the day much easier. The only thing is getting it adjusted properly.I have not heard to many that wanted to remove the Dutchman after they installed it. There are many that have had lazy jacks that have gone to the Dutchman.

 

[RREgge]

We love ours

Our 376 has the dutchman, and it does work great. Adjusting isn't that bad. Only negative is increased friction when raising and lowering the main.RReggeS/V Allie Kat

 

[Gail Moorehead]

Dirty Sail

Agree that the Dutchman works as advertised. When worn they collect dirt that is transfered to the sail. I do not know what the factory recommends but depending on use they should be replaced when they lose the smooth surface. Probably 3 to 5 years. Replacent is an easy and inexpensive task using the factory replacement lines.

 

[Chuck Wayne]

dutchman

I agree with Steve, had a dutchman on my 29.5 and loved it; we replaced the lines after 4 years with replacements from the factory. It worked really well controlling the sail going up and down;much better than lazy jacks, and no snagging the battens