[C320-list] In Boom Furler

[Andrew Santangelo]

Hello All,

I should correct my information to indicate my data is based on  
earlier models of in-boom systems and mast based furlers.  Practical  
Sailor also has done a review of some of the systems out there.

For Cruising, the boom system may be fine, but I personally would have  
a different purchasing priority as all of us would.

However I am not fully convinced on using either type, especially  
since I race my boat.  As stated earlier, I even got rid of the  
Dutchman system on my vessel.  How important was that?  In a couple of  
races (approximately 68 nm each), we won or placed by minutes, sailing  
slightly less than 0.1 knots faster overall than the other boat.  Of  
course many factors impact this speed, but every bit counts.

Another example, on long races we do not use the furler for the  
headsail even.  Instead we use the two slots (and two halyards) for  
sail peels.  We clearly have a net gain in efficiency, performance and  
pointing when racing.  Of course if the process is done incorrectly  
then all that performance goes out the window.  I would think it would  
be the same issue with the Main Sail.  I understand that the in-boom  
system is different than in Mast furler, but I have heard more  
negative than positive comments.    And yes we have won or placed in  
many races with this scheme - and yes, it is expensive and a pain  
hauling around all those sails (5 head sails, 2 mains, 4 spinnakers).

On the other hand for a convenience point of view, cruising and  
occasional racing the stowable boom may work out fine and work for  
you.  For me I would spend the money on the latest GPS Chart plotter  
(already spent the money on the sails!).


Best Regards,
Andrew Santangelo
#333   C320 Dawn Treader