Submitted on April 30, 2007 by Jerry Clifton

Question: Have a Gulf 32 full keel with a 140 gennie here in San Diego. Planning trip north to San Francisco and then on up to the San Juan islands. Present sails are origional (17 Years old) and have concerns about the size of the roller furled headsail and age of the main. Thinking smaller headsail would be better since single handed. Any suggestions?

Answer: Hi Jerry,

I apologize for the long delay in responding. I hope this response is still relevant to you plans.

If this were my boat, I'd consider a 100-110% moderate to heavy air headsail for the passage up the coast. A 140% sail is a good all round sail for San Diego but not for long trips through places like San Francisco and the coast of Oregon, particularly sailing solo. This sail should be built from no less than a 8 oz Dacron and have a relatively high clew and UV cover. The high clew makes the sail less "lead position sensitive", gives you good visibility and will not scoop water when heeled over. It is critical however that your sailmaker make sure there is adequate adjustment on your genoa track to give the sail maximum range.

If the main is as old as you say, you should at the very least have your sailmaker inspect it for wear. If you do get a new one, I'd suggest two reefs and full battens. For material, again the weight minimum should be in the 8 oz. range.

Please feel free to contact me directly if you need further assistance in your decision making process.

Regards,
John

Best of luck!
John Gladstone

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