Name: 38.3m2 Gennaker
Brand: North Sails
SKU: 38.3m2 Gennaker
Price: 795 EUR
Availability: InStock

Question 1

What is a gennaker and what is its purpose?

Accepted Answer

A gennaker is an asymmetrical, all-purpose downwind sail that combines characteristics of a genoa and a spinnaker. It is designed to be set from the bow or a bowsprit, rather than a spinnaker pole, making it generally easier to handle than a symmetric spinnaker. Gennakers are effective for sailing in light to moderate winds, typically ranging from 5 to 20 knots, and excel on reaching and broad reaching courses, generally between 60 and 170 degrees apparent wind angle. They are a popular choice for both cruising and club racing, providing increased speed and power off the wind.

Question 2

What are the specific dimensions and features of this gennaker?

Accepted Answer

This is a new 38.3m² gennaker. Its key dimensions are:

Sail Area: 38.3 m²
Luff: 10 m
Foot: 5 m
Leech: 8.5 m

It comes in a Red/White color scheme and is supplied with a turtle bag for easy storage and deployment. The gennaker is produced by North Sails.

Question 3

What type of boat is this gennaker suitable for?

Accepted Answer

This gennaker, with a 10m luff and 38.3m² sail area, is generally suitable for a range of cruising sailboats and club racers. The ideal fit for a gennaker depends on your boat&#8217;s specific measurements, particularly the luff length (distance from the tack point to the halyard exit at the masthead). It is recommended to compare these dimensions against your vessel&#8217;s rig to ensure proper fit and optimal performance. Consulting with a sailmaker or rigger can help confirm compatibility for your specific boat.

Question 4

What is a turtle bag and why is it included?

Accepted Answer

A turtle bag is a specialized sail bag designed for the organized storage and deployment of downwind sails like gennakers and spinnakers. It helps keep the sail neatly packed and ready for a quick, tangle-free hoist. The bag typically has features such as squared ends for efficient packing, a top closure for fast access, and tie-downs to secure it to the boat during launches. Including a turtle bag with this gennaker enhances ease of use, making hoisting and dousing simpler, especially for cruising sailors or short-handed crews.

Question 5

How does a gennaker differ from a traditional spinnaker?

Accepted Answer

While both are downwind sails, gennakers and traditional (symmetrical) spinnakers have distinct differences. A gennaker is asymmetric, meaning it has a defined luff and leech, similar to a genoa. It is tacked to the bow or a bowsprit and does not require a spinnaker pole for setting, simplifying handling. Gennakers perform well on reaching courses (wind from the side/aft). In contrast, a traditional spinnaker is symmetrical, requiring a spinnaker pole to extend its windward corner, and is typically used for sailing deeper downwind (wind directly from astern). Gennakers are often considered more user-friendly, particularly for cruising sailors.

Question 6

Who is North Sails?

Accepted Answer

North Sails is a globally recognized and leading sailmaker, founded in 1957 by Lowell North, an Olympic gold medalist and aerospace engineer. The company is known for its rigorous, methodical approach to sail design, engineering, and manufacturing, utilizing advanced technologies like computer-driven cutting and 3Di composite construction. North Sails produces sails for a wide range of racing and cruising sailboats, from small dinghies to superyachts, and is frequently used by competitors in major events such as the America&#8217;s Cup and The Ocean Race. They have a reputation for quality, innovation, and performance in the sailing industry.

38.3m2 Gennaker

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