Have a 1997 Hunter 376 with original main. Dismal performance in a recent 5 day race leads me to think new sail with better/easier halyard and reefing systems is needed. No budget for in mast furling, will do power winch, and considering that plastic mast track insert with roller bearing cars. Any thoughts on economical/effective conventional main replacement?
New Mainsail
- Thread starter JaimesGampa
- Start date
There is a place in Hong Kong that makes sails, called Far East Sails. Check out there internet site, most boat manufacturer's have had there sails made here one time or another, very easy to work with, and very large discounts compared to local sail makers..... Actually, some local sail maker actually get there sails made there and pass them off as there own... Worth the visit to there website
Did not think there was any advantage in performance with in mast furling system. Surely not a racers favorite. Take your sail to a sailmaker for an appraisal of its condition. Perhaps a cut and a wash will restore the performance you are looking for at less $$$.
I had very good results with Somerset Sails (they are between Buffalo and Rochester in NY). Since you are in Ontario, give them a call and see if they can do what you want.
Do you know anyone who has ordered from them? Wonder how they would make any adjustments after delivery. They must sell a lot of sails.
More information is needed, what has been your prior experience in racing the boat. Have you seen a quick loss of speed, gradual or is this the first time with poor performance. Perhaps there is a coating of slime on the bottom or some other factor other than the main sail.
When you go on the website they have testomonials from lots of buyers in bath Canada and US.. I will be buying a sail this winter from them, and if the sail is made right and you give them all the measures they ask for, you shouls not need any cutting afterwords...
I realize no advantage performance wise to a furling main, but much of our sailing is cruising, and am tired of fighting with main handling. Admit that dismal results of "Sloop John B" in North Channel Race Week might be partially due to skippers learning curve, (used to do quite well in short club races in Lake Erie), but find that all day racing with a heavy boat, shoal draft keel, only point of sail that we did well on was big blow beam reach. So thanks again for thoughts, will check out all leads on main.
We would love to build you a new Doyle sail!
http://shop.hunterowners.com/cu/detail-sails.php?bid=1586&a=2
Toll free 877-932-7245 x116 for Dave, 9-4 Pacific
http://shop.hunterowners.com/cu/detail-sails.php?bid=1586&a=2
Toll free 877-932-7245 x116 for Dave, 9-4 Pacific
Before looking at sails from hong kong, i would suggest you look at all the sail lofts that are in your area. You're not very far from Toronto and all the big sail lofts are there. And really educate yourself on the various materials and how long they last and perform.
