Question 1

What is a Gennaker and what is its purpose?

Accepted Answer

A gennaker is an asymmetrical sail, a hybrid between a genoa and a spinnaker, designed primarily for sailing downwind and on a reach in light to moderate winds. [3, 5, 6] It is rigged like a spinnaker but its tack is fastened to the hull or a bowsprit, not the forestay. [3, 23] Gennakers are known for being easier to trim and handle compared to symmetrical spinnakers, making them suitable for cruising sailors and club racers seeking increased speed and power downwind. [2, 3, 5]

Question 2

What does 'Furling Gennaker' or 'Furlstrom' mean?

Accepted Answer

A Furling Gennaker, such as an Elvstrom Furlstrom, is an asymmetrical sail equipped with a furling system, typically top-down furling. [18, 24, 31] This system allows the sail to be rolled and unrolled easily from the cockpit, enhancing convenience and safety, especially for single-handed or shorthanded crews. [17, 18, 27] The integrated furling mechanism eliminates the need for a spinnaker sock and simplifies handling during deployment, dousing, and storage. [29, 30, 31]

Question 3

What are the characteristics of Nylite 90 sailcloth?

Accepted Answer

Nylite 90 is a coated nylon fabric from Contender Sailcloth designed for quality-conscious cruising sailors. [7, 8, 14, 15] It balances performance with durability and features improved porosity, making it effective for downwind asymmetric sails. [7, 8] Nylite 90 is also known for its good resistance to tearing and stretch, contributing to longevity and consistent sailing performance. [10, 15, 32]

Question 4

What are the specific dimensions of this gennaker?

Accepted Answer

This gennaker has the following dimensions:

Sail Area: 39.2 m²
Luff: 10.48 m
Foot: 5.86 m
Leech: 9.31 m

Question 5

Which boats is this gennaker suitable for?

Accepted Answer

This gennaker was originally designed for a Saffier 24. [1] The Saffier SE 24 Lite, for example, has a hull length of 7.10m and a beam of 2.40m. [1, 9] While a Saffier SE 24 Lite can carry gennakers up to 48m² or 55m², this 39.2m² gennaker is well-suited for similar compact daysailers or club racers looking for an efficient downwind sail that is easy to handle. [9, 11] Its dimensions should be compared with your boat&#8217;s specific sail plan and bowsprit configuration for optimal fit and performance.

Question 6

How do I use and trim a furling gennaker?

Accepted Answer

Using a furling gennaker involves several steps for effective deployment and control:

Hoisting: With the sail furled, attach the tack to a bowsprit or hull fitting and the head to the halyard. Hoist the furled sail slowly. [23]
Unfurling: Once hoisted, unfurl the sail using the furling line while easing the sheet, allowing it to fill with wind. [23]
Trimming: Adjust the sheets to control the sail&#8217;s twist and power. The luff should show a slight curl or instability to indicate optimal trim. [19, 21, 28]
Gybing: For gybing, you can either furl the sail, adjust course, and unfurl on the new tack, or pass the gennaker around the outside of the forestay in lighter winds. [21, 27]
Furling/Dousing: To furl, ease the sheet and pull the furling line to roll the sail tightly, typically from the top down. [17, 27, 31]

Proper communication among the crew and practicing in moderate conditions are recommended for safe handling. [16]

39.2m2 Gennaker

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