Ginnaker for a 31'

[Brent]

We have a Hunter 31 and have enjoyed for the past five years. Moved up from the 23 trailer sailor and hope we never move back. We have added a nice 150 Ginny which has significantly improved the boat's speed on all points especially in light to moderate wind. We are considering adding a ginnaker. We have added the additional halyard for it the last time the mast was down and have the rigging in place. (New winches this Christmas too!) Has anyone seen a great difference in down/off-wind performance with a ginnaker? Compared to a 150 with a wisker pole?

 

[Briann]

asametrical spinacker

This sail is not meant for down wind sailing. However if sailing in light air behind you and by sailing just of the direction of the wind, you can gain a lot of speed. I have gone from 2-3 knots on a jib without a pole to 7.5 knots with the genacker. It's a good sail but needs some learning to sail it correctly. For example, you can't tack with it as you would a standard jib but only gybe it to make your turns. It still a fun sail but is NOT meant for any heavy air.

 

[Dean Strong]

Pole it out

You can also pole out the gennaker (we do) when going directly down wind. Most of the time we make better time (well, at least more speed) with a deep broad reach...