Name: 154.3m2 Furling Gennaker
Brand: Elvstrom Sails
SKU: 2455 Furlstrom
Price: 4595 EUR
Availability: InStock

Question 1

What are the key dimensions of this gennaker?

Accepted Answer

This Elvstrom Sails 154.3m2 Furling Gennaker has the following key dimensions:

Sail Area: 154.3 square meters
Luff: 23.91 meters
Foot: 11.09 meters
Leech: 21.24 meters

The luff length is a primary factor in determining gennaker size suitability for a vessel, as it dictates the maximum hoistable length from the tack point to the halyard exit at the masthead.

Question 2

What does "Furling Gennaker (Furlstrom)" mean, and how is it used?

Accepted Answer

A gennaker is an asymmetric spinnaker, designed for efficient sailing on downwind and reaching courses without requiring a spinnaker pole.
The term &#8220;Furling Gennaker&#8221; indicates that the sail is equipped with a furling system, which allows it to be easily deployed and stowed by rolling it around its luff. This significantly simplifies handling, especially for cruisers and short-handed crews.
Elvstrom&#8217;s &#8220;Furlstrom&#8221; is specifically designed as a cruising sail that offers performance comparable to a gennaker with the easy handling characteristics of a genoa. It features a flatter cut and a straight luff, which contributes to its straightforward operation.

Question 3

What is the condition of this gennaker?

Accepted Answer

This gennaker is listed in &#8220;As new&#8221; condition. For a used sail, this implies minimal signs of wear and tear, suggesting it has seen very limited use. Generally, new sails exhibit a certain crispness and rigidity.
When assessing the condition of a sail, factors such as the stiffness of the cloth, absence of significant stretching around stitching, and lack of holes or permanent creases are important indicators of its remaining lifespan and performance.

Question 4

Which boat types is this gennaker suitable for?

Accepted Answer

This 154.3m2 furling gennaker was originally for a Hanse 545. The Hanse 545 is a yacht with a length overall of 16.20m (approximately 53 feet) and a reported gennaker area of around 195m2 in some configurations.
When selecting a gennaker, the luff length is a critical measurement for compatibility with your boat&#8217;s rig. This gennaker has a luff of 23.91 meters. Sailors typically measure the distance from their tack point to the halyard exit at the masthead to determine the appropriate gennaker size.
While originally for a Hanse 545, this gennaker may be suitable for other cruising yachts of similar size and rig dimensions, particularly those around 50-55 feet that benefit from a sail of this area for downwind and reaching performance.

Question 5

What additional equipment is required to use this furling gennaker?

Accepted Answer

To use this furling gennaker, a dedicated furler system is essential. This typically includes a furling drum at the tack and a top swivel at the head, connected by an anti-torsion cable (or a structural luff in some designs) that allows the sail to roll up.
Additionally, you will need:

A tack point located forward of the forestay, such as a bowsprit or a dedicated bow fitting.
Appropriate sheets to control the sail.
A halyard for hoisting.

The furling line for the drum will also need to be led back to the cockpit for convenient operation.

Question 6

How should this gennaker be maintained to ensure its longevity?

Accepted Answer

Proper maintenance is important for extending the life of any sail. For this gennaker, consider the following:

Rinsing: After use, especially in saltwater, rinse the sail thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt and dirt, then ensure it is completely dry before storage to prevent mildew.
UV Protection: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a significant cause of sail degradation. Always protect the furled sail with a UV cover if it remains hoisted, or store it in a sail bag out of direct sunlight when not in use.
Storage: When storing, avoid folding the sail repeatedly along the same creases, as this can weaken the fibers. Store it in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Avoid Flogging and Chafe: Minimize prolonged flogging (flapping) of the sail, as this causes stress and wear. Ensure the sail does not chafe against rigging, spreaders, or other boat parts.
Cleaning: For mildew spots, use warm water and a mild dishwashing liquid with a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemical solvents or detergents, as these can damage the sail fabric and void any warranty.

154.3m2 Furling Gennaker

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