Posted by Tom Altee on
URL: https://forum.seahawk17.org.uk/Genoa-Sizes-for-a-Fractional-Rig-tp4024499p4024516.html

Thanks for the extended reply Greg. I have noticed that the jib on a fractional rig requires more attention with constant readjustments as you point the boat on whatever reach you're on. I find it useful to have my passenger be the jib hand whose duty is to set and reset the jib. I can already visualize the problems a large Genoa would entail - in fact, on my SeaHawk, I inherited several cleats and fairings that could have only been for a large Genoa and a small spinnaker. The breed is already a lively boat so adding in such a large sail would/could be problematic if she was "over canvased" (or nyloned in these modern times).
The river I sail on in its upper reaches is quite wide and in spots several miles across for long stretches. The St Johns river runs some 150 miles south from her headwaters to her northern mouth and exit on the Atlantic. And of course at 62 years old what am I looking for here? How much performance do I need at my age? I was speaking with my rigger Julian Crisp (an ex-pat Brit who has sailed SeaHawks back in the UK) and my sail maker Tom Smith and they agreed that she's fine just as she is with maybe the addition of a smaller Genoa if I must have one - but should probably refrain from anything bigger than a 130%. She sails fine just as she is though as you noted my mainsail is about 10% smaller than originally supplied. I have rebattened that sail with much lighter battens to attain more shape. We are currently under tropical rainy conditions and won't be drying out for several weeks it appears - look for more videos under sail from me and feel free to critique my set up and proffer any handling tips.

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