New mainsail

[Alex DiGiacomo]

I need to purchase a new Mainsail for my 25.5. Looking at major dealers, Doyle, North and even off the rack. Any information or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Good Sailing!!!

 

[Bob Howie]

Use a local loft

I guess it depends on budget, but I have always used a local loft for my sails; I've never bought one of Brands and, frankly, I believe it's debatable as to whether the Major Brands are any more better in the area of general sails than what you can get from your local sail tailor! I have never ever had a problem with my local loft and if I had a question they were always right there with the answers.As to the costs, I have no idea wht you are looking at or what your local market conditions are, but I would strongly recommend you purchase new and the final cost is related to what you want put into the sail, i.e., full or partial battens, reefing points, type of material that sort of thing. But, here in Houston, you can buy a custom built mainsail for your boat with all the expected tricks for about $2,000 for Dacron, maybe even a little less. The only other experience I have with off-the-shelf sails is some friends have purchased UK Sails in the past and seem plesaed with them.Good luck.

 

[Tim S.]

There is no such thing as off the shelf in sails. Why don't you check the chandlery on this site, they are Doyle Sails built here in the states. Pretty good prices from what I ubnderstand.

 

[David Foster]

Happy with Doyle - find your sailmaker

By your sailmaker, I mean find someone who lives near to you, and is willing to visit your boat, look at your sails, and listen to _your_ sailing objectives, and give you real advice. Check prices among local lofts to keep him honest, and then go with your sailmaker's advice.Greg Koski at Doyle Cleveland, thought a new headsail was the answer for Lake Erie, but he listened to our objectives (no racing, but lots of cruising and daysailing) and when he saw our sails on the boat, he said- "New main, no question about it." This was exactly what we needed. The cruising spinnaker and then a new 110 came laterover a 2 year program. But the new main was like getting a new boat. ( 1-1.5 knots with 5 degreesless heel in medium (15kt.)winds.)For us cruising mortals, there is not much difference in pricing among the different lofts for the same material, cut, and features, but the value of a long term advisor seems high to me.Good luck - you'll love your boat with a new sail!DavidLady Lillie'77 h27

 

[Steve Dion]

Bernie G.....

Bernie:If you want to sell your boat and sails you can advertise on the HOW site. This is one of the best places to sell your boat (not allowed on the forums). The price is right and they typically sell fast.You can sell any gear on the "gear forum" at no charge.

 

[Tim S.]

Your Sailmaker

I Concur with David, It's best to find a Sailmaker you are comfortable with. However, with expert advise, you SHOULD expect to pay a bit more, but it is usually worth it. If Price is a primary concern, then the chandlery is a safe bet.Happy Sailing