Downwind Sail - Parasail???
- Thread starter Halo
- Start date
auditdata
Well-Known Member
We have been sailing all season as a couple to get ready for the ARC.
I've raced with spinnakers but 2 up with SWMBO is a step too far on a 40 footer. So took the plunge and bought a Parasail. It has been superb. My wife and I can easily handle it and as it can be used without the main it makes downwind easy. Interestingly we had it at 70 degrees as can be seen in the third photo here. Has my vote as easy to handle and good in a range of winds and angles. Used it for 10 hours on the way back from Ireland without touching it.
I've raced with spinnakers but 2 up with SWMBO is a step too far on a 40 footer. So took the plunge and bought a Parasail. It has been superb. My wife and I can easily handle it and as it can be used without the main it makes downwind easy. Interestingly we had it at 70 degrees as can be seen in the third photo here. Has my vote as easy to handle and good in a range of winds and angles. Used it for 10 hours on the way back from Ireland without touching it.
Last edited:
lw395
Well-Known Member
I don't really understand how it's supposed to be better than a conventional kite as soon as the airflow is across the sail rather than vertical?
I suppose it comes into its own sailing dead down wind in say 10 to 20 knots, where you still have plenty of apparent wind?
I would be concerned how it will distort over time. Those holes/slots/strings look like serious stress concentrators. By comparison I have a couple of very well worn asymmetrics that still drive the boat well enough.
Interesting stuff though, thanks for posting it.
I suppose it comes into its own sailing dead down wind in say 10 to 20 knots, where you still have plenty of apparent wind?
I would be concerned how it will distort over time. Those holes/slots/strings look like serious stress concentrators. By comparison I have a couple of very well worn asymmetrics that still drive the boat well enough.
Interesting stuff though, thanks for posting it.
auditdata
Well-Known Member
I think it can be used in a broader wind range because stronger winds vent through the slot and in lighter winds the wing holds the sail up. There are other advantages but I am in danger of becoming a salesman!
Ex-SolentBoy
Well-Known Member
My favourite downwind rig. Two headsails, no main, no poles.
