Which Sail Mfg is best buy

[John Manfredi]

I have priced new 100% RF,cruising jib with foam and UVcover from Sail Warehouse, Catalina Yachts Parts Dept and North Sails. Prices round to $1000, 1100, and 1300 respectively. This for a Catalina 30, to be used about 10 to 15 weekends per year. Has anyone had convincing experience with discount vs name brand sails? Thanks for any advice offered.

 

[Bob Camarena]

Consider Local Knowledge

You might want to give some consideration to sail lofts with experience making sails tailored to your unique local conditions. Sails from large discount lofts are not going to be optimized for your situation. Here in Northern CA, sails made for SF bay are going to be dramatically different from those made for the Delta. How important this is will depend a lot on you.

 

[Tim]

Consider the investment

Sails and sailcloth are like anything else, you get what you pay for. Many WareHouse or Clearing house sails use whatever may be available cheap, which may stretch sooner than a better quality fabric. Trust a sailmaker you can talk with and feel comfortable with. Consider your sailmakers experience and reputation. After all you are making an investment. Do you buy offbrand tires or name brand tires for your family car?

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners]

Pt Townsend Sails

I have heard many good things about Carol Hasse's loft in Port Townsend. That's just a ferry ride for you & she will give you premium service (at premium prices, I'm sure). But it would at least be worth a phone call.LaDonna

 

[Bob Camarena]

Another Reason to go Local

I don't have a roller furler, but I assume there are some variations in fit and set-up. One thing you get from a local loft is custom service. Most will visit your boat to take measurements themselves. If it doesn't fit perfectly they'll make it right. I had an experience with a new, custom-made, hank-on jib that was cut too high in the foot. The sailmaker re-did it at no charge with no hassle. You'll also be better off in terms of repairs later.