Replacing the original Headsail

[Rick Perkins]

We are fairly new owners of an 1989 32' Vision. We have a healthy respect for Hunter's Vision design - truly a wonder of engineering! We love our boat, and have only one complaint: the original Headsail is TINY! My wife calls it the "Hanky" - this is a great Fall/early Spring headsail, but once past memorial day it does nothing for us. We are looking to buy a new headsail for our light air summers. We are concerned about "over-canvassing" though. Under consideration is a 125 - 135 Genoa - we would like to hear back from someone who's already done it, and especially where you put your new sheet tracks. Photos would be really nice!We also have a Doyle Asymetric - has anyone ever tried a short bowsprit? July heat and 3-6 knot Chesapeake Bay winds are driving these questions...Thanks in advance - Rick and Carol Perkinss/v Noteworthy

 

[David Foster]

Use the Asymetric

The asymetric will outperform a genny in light air on all points of sail over about 60 degrees absolute. It's dynamite on a beam reach.My understanding on the Vision setup is that the main is your "big" sail. I'd ask a sailmaker about a big, roachy main (if you don't have one already.)David Lady Lillie

 

[Bill O'Donovan]

Bowsprit

I too recommend the asymetrical.I perfected an 8-foot bowsprit that extends about 4-5 over the bow and vastly improves the off-wind performance so the spin is not blanketed by the main. If you'd like pix and directions, email me at bodonovan@vagazette.com. No charge.