Genakker use

[rojaroja]

As I just mounted a second furling sail on my Malo 50, can anyone advise me on when one should use a genakker, (as I have one), especially now, when or where such a big sail should be used.
best regards
Richard

[Theis]

As a general rule, the gennaker is good for winds of up to about 12 knots at an angle of from 90 to 165 degrees. Of course both depend on the gennaker. A smaller gennaker might be suitable for higher winds. A broad shouldered gennaker can go to 165 degrees, but the more triangular gennaker will not be able to do that, but will perform better as you approach a broad reach.

In lighter winds, the gennaker can add significant speed. In heavier winds (over 10 knots) I think it adds more to the ambiance and pleasure than pushing/pulling the boat faster. In the mid teen as a wind speed and higher, it adds to the excitement, partcularly when it goes blows out (I haven't had this happen) or drags the boat over (I have had that happen in a gust)

So, in summary, use the gennaker whenever you feel bored with the old stuff.

[Mac]

More Power Tim!!

Like Theis said, when bored and weather is OK go for it. They are very easy sails to handle once you get to grip with the appearently 'to big a size' look :-)

When broad reaching they are great and do give an easy speed gain.

Alos like Theis said - just watch out if the wind gets up. If the wind does sneek up just run more downwind until you put it away. If you have a big breeze you can run very flat with most gennys which is handy on a longer passage.