Genoa size - Beneteau 361

[davidej]

We are looking to spec a new genoa for a 361.

The current sail is , according to its invoice, a 150% and with advancing years we were advised to get a 135%

However measuring the old sail, that seems to be nearer to a 135% than the 150% which I thought it was.

Any suggestions as to whether we could go smaller than 135%?

 

[RJJ]

We are looking to spec a new genoa for a 361.

The current sail is , according to its invoice, a 150% and with advancing years we were advised to get a 135%

However measuring the old sail, that seems to be nearer to a 135% than the 150% which I thought it was.

Any suggestions as to whether we could go smaller than 135%?

In general i am sympathetic to a 100% or 110% sail. You certainly "can" go smaller on an AWB or any other boat, but it's a trade-off. In Force 3+, it's a no brainer.

There's a reason few modern boats are designed with big genoas in mind.

Pros
1. It's cheaper, smaller, lighter and easier to lug around
2. It's as fast upwind in anything more than (say) 11 knots true, depending on your boat
3. It's better in (say) 15 knots true than a genoa with three rolls, whatever anyone tells you about foam luffs
4. It's much better in (say) 25-30 knots with 3 rolls, compared to a genoa with 6-8 rolls
5. It's much easier to tack in all conditions; if you go to 95% you can make it self-tacking.
6. It's less inclined to knacker itself on the spreaders and need annual repair
7. Better visibility in all conditions
8. May be more stable downwind, especially when poled-out

Cons
1. Underpowered upwind below (say) 9 knots true; very underpowered below 6 knots - but how often do you really sail in those conditions, with any expectation of getting anywhere fast?

 

[ithet]

Agree with RJJ. I have a Beneteau 331, a smaller but similar design to your 361. We have a slightly smaller (I make it about 130%) than original sized genny, both came with the boat. Fully out it just curves nicely around the front and under our (single) spreader, which is a great advantage for tight sheeting angles. At this size and with good luff foam it rolls to a nice No.2 and 3.

Downwind of course there is less sail area, especially in light airs under genny alone.

 

[Daydream believer]

Racing the 342
Almost new sail - post under "Rubin" see video

 

[Skylark]

I had a 361 for almost 10 years, lovely boat. Honestly can’t remember now but I don’t recall it having a 150 genny. I would have said that 110-120 sounds about right for all purpose, compromise cruising.