National Sail Supply

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Tom H31

Tom H31

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Jan 11, 2004
65
Hunter 31_83-87 Middle River, MD
We are considering purchasing a new 140 genoa from National Sails. I have heard good things about their sails (which are apparently made in Thailand), and the price is considerably less than other quotes we got. Does anyone have experience with these sails that you would like to share? Thanks for any advice.
 
S

s sauer

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Jun 4, 2004
844
Hunter 28.5 Tolchester, MD
Real Savings?

Ulmer-Skelley Sails in HavreDeGrace, MD is right around the corner from your location. Ralph Skelley and his son Max have buit my 155% (used for 16 years)and 135% Genoa (still in use after 17 years) and a new loose footed Main purchased three years ago for our Hunter 28.5, all of which were computer cut to measurements Max checked on our boat, so they fit absolutely perfectly. We discussed the type of construction and material, cloth weight, how we use the boat, etc at length each time. Their 'custom fit' sails have typically been within the same price ranges of other local sail makers and the prices obtainable on this web site (for the same options). I go to them for routine maintenance as well, and I'd highly recommend them.
 
Warren Milberg

Warren Milberg

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Dec 1, 1999
2,391
Hunter 28.5 Chesapeake Bay
Some Data Points

I bought a sail from National Sails for a previous boat and was happy with both the price and quality. I'm not sure, but think their sails are actually assembled in Thailand (Rolly Tasker?). In any event, the sail fit (I had to do the measurements) and performed well. The current issue of Cruising World has an interesting article on buying new sails and includes some info on material selection and the various prices a number of well known sailmakers charge. You can extrapolate a lot from the comparison charts provided in the article. That said, I agree with S. Sauer below that having a sailmaker come to your boat, talk to you about your needs, take specific measurements to assure that things like bimini clearance are considered in the sail design, and to stand by the sale/sail afterward are well worth the additional money such service costs. I had a new main made for my H28.5 by North and while I could have bought a new main cheaper from a number of offshore lofts, I think I got good value from Norh in terms of their personalized attention.
 
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