New Sails for Old Boat

[Rick]

I'm in the market for new sails for my 1974 Hunter 25. I have gotten quotes from several sail makers. I'm at the information overload point (differing cloth weight, weaves, cuts, etc.). My use is mostly day sailing and weekend cruising. However, I intend to get involved in some club racing. Winds on my lake are generally quite light, but we do have a fair number of days in the 15 to 20 kt range and a few days of sustained 20kt plus winds. Its an old boat thats not worth much but is a good sailer. My current sails were purchased used by the prior owner and are undersized. They're good when the wind is blowing over 10kts, but quite slow in light winds. I'd like to purchase a new main and genoa, but the budget may limit me to a new genoa. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Ken Palmer]

I replaced my sails

A year ago I replaced both the 150% roller-furled genny and the main on my 1981 H33. I believe the old sails were original. We cruise Lake Ontario as well as some recreational racing with our yacht club.Replacing the sails was the best investment I made. Libery now points and sails in light winds much better. I have actually placed in races last year, and won a couple trophies last also. It can be confusing selecting the correct sails. You have to trust the loft that you purchase from. If you buy from a local loft, they know what is best for your local sailing conditions. I personally bought sails from North out of Toronto. My main is a 6.6 oz NORDAC, which has 2 full battens, and 2 regular. The genny is a 5 oz SOFTNORLAM, which is a laminated polyester, radial-cut sail (very nice). The cost for buying 2 sails at once and buying in the fall was discounted. It still was a bit expensive, but again, worth it.Ken Palmer, S/V Liberty

 

[Michael O'Hara]

Recommend Hood

Replaced the 155% on my '81 H25 two seasons ago, and I'll replace the main this year. And I got a lot of (confusing) quotes also, but chose Hood because 1) the price was reasonable and at end-of-season discount (not lowest price), 2) Hood I ranked in quality at just-almost-North, 3) they make their own cloth!, and 4) I could visit the loft in Sausalito to talk with Robin.The cost of the Genoa was just over $1000 after discount. The main will be about $900. They're pretty, they're pretty fast, and they're pretty reasonable. And EXCELLENT service!A lot of sails are made in Taiwon, cut by computer and mailed to the lofts that ordered them. Check to see where the sails are CUT not just SEWN. Out of over 12 quotes, it was a relatively tough decision between Hood, UK, Doyle, and Quantum. All good lofts!And the Narrow Escape sails beautifully with the 155% - although she's not a racer by any measure, she goes at her best, which means I pass the C27's and a few C30's that DON'T go at their best. Toss out the obvious "losers" and then figure out what you want in the sail and what that old boat is worth - you'll pick the right sail!Fair Winds!Michael O'

 

[bee bednar]

Quantum Sails on a H265

I purchase a complet new inventory ofsails form Quantum here in Seabrook TX: A 155, 110, and a new main. The 155 is mylar and unbelievable light. Priceswere:920 for the 155720 for the 1101260 for the mainThe original sails were about 10 years old and quite shot. The boat is extremely fast with the new sails. In 8-12 knots she will reach her hull speed of 6.3 with the main and 155 on a beat quite easily. Running in similar winds, its not unreasonable to reach 6.7 knots or better with a bit stronger winds. Above 15knots, the smaller headsail draws superbly and the only problem is keep the boat up. Takes a fairly heavy crew of four to do this, but when flat she races quite well. Its not a J, but it also cost me almost nothing for a whole lot of fun.I really recommend new sails!

 

[RUSS KLINE]

Try Bacon

I am also in a somewhat similar situation and am waiting till I finish my restoration but I would recomend Bacon Assoc. highly as they are a used sail brokerage and you can get some great prices. You can contact them at: Bacon-sails.com

 

[Bill Colombo]

New Sails

Rick, There is no doubt that new sails will improve your boat's performance, especially if your current sails were not designed specifically for a Hunter 25. I would recommend a 5-6oz premium quality Dacron mainsail. Ths will give great results at a relatively low cost.You might consider having a Mylar laminate genoa built if you want to race occasionally. These are only slightly more expensive than woven Dacron Genoas and are generally lighter and lower stretch. The most important thing to do when considering a new sail purchase is to find a sailmaker who you like working with and who understands your specific needs.Good Sailing, Bill Colombo, Doyle SF