Submitted on January 26, 2007 by Joseph Schembri

Question: Hi - I just purchased a F 31 trimaran. The screecher is in a bad shape I am not sure which is the best buy a new screecher or a Code 0? What is your opinion? Thank you

Answer: Dear Mr Schembri,

Thank you for your interest in our sails. Your request reached us through our North American colleagues and I'll try to help you.

Knowing this boat, I need to know a little more about your sailing program, but assuming it is mainly cruising in the Med here is my recommandation. Whatever is the name of the sail (that can vary from sailmakers) it is always good to look at the wind range (angles and speed).

For a cruising sail, you are looking for the widest range to be able to sail around without changing often. The screecher or Code 1 is more a reaching sail: 70° to 110° AWA. => deeper shape, more sail area, and lighter cloth. The code 0 is more a light upwind sail: 40° to 80° AWA => flatter shape, thin entry, less sail area and heavier cloth. This is the primary range and that could be wider with different tuning on the boat.

I suggest the screecher. It still can be good around 60° AWA and will be fine for reaching. I hope that will help you and feel free to contact us for any request.

Best regards,
Philippe Oulhen
North Sails, France

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