Swallow Yachts Association

Swallow Yachts Forum => General Discussion => Topic started by: Rock Doctor on 20 Mar 2018, 04:07

Title: BR20 Sail Efficiency
Post by: Rock Doctor on 20 Mar 2018, 04:07

Hi All,

as winter approaches and after contemplating my sails over summer I am looking at a new suit of sails for my BR20. I have come to the conclusion that the BR20 sails, because of lack of any roach are less than efficient for the given sail area, especially the top 15-20%. One sailmaker has suggested adding some considerable roach to the main, this will involve battens which then become an issue when lowering and storing the sail on the yard - another thing to remove and get mislaid.

Alternative a radical approach would be to convert to a gaff rig (as opposed to gunter).

Has anyone been contemplating such a move over the long cold northern winter. I would be interested to hear thoughts on this topic.

Title: Re: BR20 Sail Efficiency
Post by: TimLM on 20 Mar 2018, 08:12

Hi Chris, I've made my BRe into Gaff Rigged and would be happy to share what I know, Tim BRe64

Title: Re: BR20 Sail Efficiency
Post by: Rock Doctor on 20 Mar 2018, 23:22

Hello Tim,
thanks for your offer to share your experience of conversion of your BRE to gaff rig. I am certainly interested. I am not sure where you are located, I live in Western Australia so communication by e-mail or PM is probably the best way.

Anyway can we catch up and discuss when you have the time.

Title: Re: BR20 Sail Efficiency
Post by: Matthew P on 21 Mar 2018, 06:50

Hi Tim
Your BRe gaff rig sounds interesting.  Would you be able to post a photo or two on this forum?

Matthew
Gladys BR20

Title: Re: BR20 Sail Efficiency
Post by: TimLM on 21 Mar 2018, 17:00

Hi Chris, I'm in the UK albeit the West and yep I'll pm you as soon as I can.
Hi Matthew, as soon as I've worked out how to post photos I will.
Tim

Title: Re: BR20 Sail Efficiency
Post by: TimLM on 21 Mar 2018, 17:21

Hi Matthew,
here are 3, the first one sailing was in early development before the boom bag and mainsail lacing. I hadn't quite got the trimming of the sails right at that time, I'm much better at it now also both foresails have their halyards doubled at the top so she goes much better upwind now.
I've a lot of pics as I developed the rig and improved on the sail handling I'm thinking of putting the whole history together for my own amusement but am happy to share if that's appropriate.

Title: Re: BR20 Sail Efficiency
Post by: Matthew P on 21 Mar 2018, 20:53

Thanks Tim

Looks like dangerous competition for Gladys - I'll have to get a bigger umbrella or a harder working crew.

Seriously, I'm sure many of use would be interested in more information on your development if you have time to put it on the forum.

Matthew
BR20 Gladys

Title: Re: BR20 Sail Efficiency
Post by: TimLM on 22 Mar 2018, 08:05

Oh no not the "Brolly Spinnaker" I don't stand a chance!