Optimum Angle of Heel

[Chuck Fort]

Does anybody know the optimum angle of heel for a 1983 Hunter 27 with the shoal keel?

 

[PJ]

Go to the US SAiling web site

If your boat is listed spend the $$ and order a set of polars. Be sure to indicate fixed or folding prop, headsail most often used, etc as that is how the polars will be created. Info is for wind speeds from 6 -20 on all degrees of sail, giving boat speed, TW, AW, angle of heel VMG, % of sail required for optimum performance as the wind pipes up, as well as best VMG on poin of sail as wind dies. WORTH THR $$I race a H34 & we take our share of 1st'sGood Luck PJ

 

[Terry]

Hi Chuck, everything that I've read states

that about 23 degrees heel is the maximum for efficient sailing. The keel resistance tends to increase as the heel angle becomes greater. Also, the angle of attack on the sails becomes less efficient. Although, I've had some of the best (thrilling) sailing at heel angles of 35 to 45 degrees. My first mate does not appreciate being over that far, so I usually do that kind of sailing solo.WM has a book titled, "The Best In Sail Trim". It covers just about everything you need to know about basic and intermediate sail trim. Terry