Submitted on October 4, 2005 by Dean Hoolihan

Question: What can you tell me about asymmetrical spinnakers for a Hunter 356? What if anything should I get? On what points of sail and under what wind speeds can they be effectively used. I primarily use the boat for cruising but occasionally expect to do some racing?

A. Dean Hoolihan

Answer: Hi Dean,

For cruising downwind, an all-purpose Gennaker is the most useful sail. It is effective from 70 degrees and 3 kts apparent wind to 160 degrees in a breeze. The Gennaker was designed for speed, versatility and ease of handling, without regard to racing rules. Whether you can use this sail for racing depends on the rule/handicap system on your area. The local North Sails people can tell you how your rule treats Gennakers.

If the standard Gennaker is not legal, they can custom design an all-purpose Asymmetrical that will fit your cruising needs and be legal for local racing.

Good luck,
Steve

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