[C320-list] Rigging for 30+knts

[Ken Danko]

Pat:

When I purchased new sails I bought a 100% jib, some people in the bay 
area use 95%. What I noticed is that with new sails (North), Grace could 
more easily handle higher winds which is necessary since 30 knots of 
wind is not unusual here. But in answer to your question, I think a lot 
depends on point of sail. Sometimes I use a reefed main alone and 
sometimes I use the jib alone and sometimes the jib is partially furled. 
Going up wind requires the jib, at least part of it. A beam reach can 
work well with a reefed main alone as can down wind sailing.

Ken

On 7/13/10 12:35 PM, Pat Ireland wrote:
> All
>
> What sail configuration do you carry for wind over 30 knts?
>
> A double reefed main and a 110 jib are a bit much to control and are
> impossible when the gusts approach 40knts.   Rolling in the jib to about 90%
> helps, but the weather helm is so heavy that additional reduction of the
> main seems appropriate.
>
> The second reef point brings the head down below the top spreader.  Is
> adding a third reef viable?  Should we be furling the main and using only a
> headsail?  Or is it engine only time?  My understanding is that using a spar
> to support the sail area in a blow is best, but the balance does not appear
> to allow that approach.
>
> Your experience and suggestions are appreciated.  Right now, we run away and
> go home.   That's just no fun at all.
>
> Pat, 801
>