Third Reef in a 335

[Gary Wyngarden]

I'm planning to do a cruise next summer up the West Coast of Vancouver Island, an area exposed to the open Pacific and known for its high winds. I've noticed on my 335 that when the winds get to 30 knots and more even the second reef on the main causes too much heel and weather helm. I'm thinking about having a third reef point put in the sail this winter. Anyone with a 335 (or a 336 or a 34, etc.) done this? How did it impact your ability to handle high winds? Thanks.Gary WyngardenS/V Shibumi H335

 

[ted]

i have three in my 35.5

if i were going to have a new main made i would either have my third reef point higher, giving me a smaller third reef, or i would only have two points, the first reef in between my first and second i have now, and the second high enough to give me a proper sized storm main, even with my third reef its still to much main in 40 kts of wind.

 

[Steve O.]

haven't used mine

I had a 3rd reef put in when I bought the boat 3 yrs ago but I haven't had to use it yet. Better to have it and not need it...