Genoa Advice

[Pete H.]

We sail a 21' Mac on an inland lake in VA. The boat came with a main and a hanked on 100% jib. On light air days we are unable to make much headway. We are considering a Genoa, but could use advise on the size (135% or 150%) and the material ( I assume light weight). Any advice would be greatly appreciated.Thanks

 

[Bob]

Hi Pete, I'll look for you on the lake

My brother sails a Mac 21 and the 135 is a real versatile sail for his boat. In light air, of course, his 150 is a touch faster, but when the wind gets up at all the 135 is much easier to deal with and the boat is probably faster, too. We did the trans-Tahoe last year with the big one up, and it was just too much, though downwind was a real adventure.

 

[Bob]

Last season

I purchased a new 150 Genoa to use on my Venture 21 that has CDI furler. I don't remember all the specifics (my head is frozen with the cold weather we're having) but I believe it's 5 or 6 oz. I sail on the Finger Lakes which are inland and find it's ideal for all conditions. However, the furler adds to my satisfaction because of easy reefing. Wind conditions change fast and constantly up here. And now that nobody has to go forward to change hanked on sails I can really enjoy the day. Some feedback from this forum suggested the 150 would be too much. NOT SO...I'm real happy with it. But....If you have to go with a hank on...the difference between the 135 and 150 depends on wind in your perticular area. Perhaps get a 150 with a reef or two.Good luck.BobPirates UP!!!

 

[Bill Colombo]

Racing or Day Sailing

Pete, If you are mostly day sailing the 135% should provide sufficient power for most conditions. If you race the boat go for the 150% and change to the 100% when it gets heavy.Thanks,Bill ColomboDoyle Sailmakers