Improving the sailing plan of a Hunter 29.5 (1995)

[Michel Galy]

My hunter 29.5 (1995) performs rather poorly in light airs. Is it possible to improve her performance by using larger sails-- the main sail in particular-- than the original sails instead of a spinnaker ?Michel Galy

 

[Bruce Leidal]

Improving the performance of a 29.5

I also have a 29.5. It performs very well in light air when going to windward. Off the wind it is another story. To improve this I went to my local UK sailmaker and purchased a used jib. They cut it to fit as a 155%. Now on light air days, I just lower my 110% and rise the 155%. It is amazing how much more horsepower the boat has.A little tip on the mainsail...I have raced the 29.5 for 7 seasons. The key to a fast main on this boat is to ensure the top batten is parallel to the boom. If it hooks inward, it acts like a brake. If it is outward from the boom, it won't powerup.Good sailing,Bruce

 

[Andy]

Ditto on the 155

See the Photo Forum for pics of the 155 on a 29.5. You will need aft winches,(same as those used for spinaker). You will be surprised at a) how it helps in light air and b) how much wind you can handle before reefing or changing sails.