Sails

Sails & Accessories

- Learn all about the different types of sails & the right sail care -

There are many different types of sails, and it is important to be able to differentiate between them, as it allows for better boat handling, performance, and safety. If you would like to delve deeper into the subject, you will find further interesting literature in the section Nautical charts, books.

Square-rigged and front-and-aft sails

Roughly speaking, there are two shapes of sail, square-rigged, and front-and-aft. Square sails are usually commonplace on more traditional sailboats today. These sails are mounted perpendicular to the mast and are most efficient when the wind is coming from behind the boat, not effective for sailing upwind and require a large crew. For this reason, many of today's yachts are equipped with fore-and-aft sails, or berth sails, with a Bermuda rig. These sails run parallel to the boat's length and are more versatile for sailing at different angles to the wind (even 45 degrees), including upwind, whereby the sailboat sails at an angle, making a series of turns to progress towards a destination upwind. This creates a zigzag pattern and is a significant advantage compared to square-rigged sails.

Mainsail and headsail

When sailing downwind, the mainsail and headsail are set wide apart on opposite sides in a ‘butterfly’ configuration. While there is usually only one mainsail on board, which is adjusted to the wind conditions by reefing, there are a number of headsails that can be used.

The jib

Jibs have long been considered the standard headsail or foresail. A self-tacking jib is a type of jib sail on a sailboat that automatically trims itself when the boat tacks, requiring minimal input from the sailor and is becoming increasingly common due to its convenience.

The Genoa

Currently, the most widely used standard sail, in conjunction with a furler, is probably a genoa, which is larger than the jib. Whereas without a furling system it was necessary to set the sail appropriate for the wind conditions, now part of the sail area can be ‘rolled away’ if necessary. This furling system enhances safety and provides a convenient way to reduce sail area when needed, allows for easy sail handling from the cockpit, eliminating the need to go on deck to furl or unfurl the sail. However, Genoa sail furling can lead to sail deformation, which can result in a fuller shape (increased draft) and potential wear and tear on the sail cloth. Therefore, you should always have a storm jib on board that can be set in case of rough conditions. Having a jib that wraps around the furled genoa is ideal in this scenario. A storm jib's primary purpose is not to enhance speed or performance, but to ensure safety and control in extreme weather condition.

Gennaker, blister, and Code Zero

A gennaker, blister, and Code Zero are all types of downwind sails used on sailboats. If the ship is making little or no headway with normal sails, a gennaker may still be able to achieve high speeds, and a spinnaker sleeve makes raising and lowering the sail almost effortless.

Spinnaker sleeve

A spinnaker sleeve offers advantages for both occasional skippers and experienced regatta crews. It allows sailors to safely and efficiently contain, hoist, and douse the spinnaker, even in challenging conditions. The primary purpose of a spinnaker sleeve is to manage the large and often unruly spinnaker sail. It acts as a tube that encases the spinnaker, allowing for controlled deployment and retrieval. The spinnaker is hoisted inside the sleeve, and the sleeve is then pulled down, effectively containing the sail. In regatta mode, manoeuvres can be optimised, and on a relaxed cruise with the family, even the slightest breeze can be utilised.

How much do good sails cost?

The cost of a new set of sails depends on many factors, such as the choice of material and the size of the boat. However, the investment is likely to be in the four-figure range. More importantly, the sails are the main source of propulsion for a sailing yacht. It is therefore in the interest of every sailor to maintain them as well as possible and prevent potential problems.

How do I care for my sails?

The headsail, for example, can be protected with a sail cover over the leech. To prevent damage to the leech at the height of the spreader, spreader covers are available. It is also advisable to have a small repair kit on board, which can be used to make temporary repairs to the sail until professional repairs can be carried out.

Even when not in use, sails age. This is especially true if they are not stored away during the season so that they are ready for use at any time. UV radiation makes the fabric and thread brittle and porous over time. The harmful effects can be reduced with a boom cover and UV protection sleeve or roller-furling cover. If the sails have been packed away wet, they should be dried at the earliest opportunity, as standing moisture also weakens the fabric in the long term.

How long do sails last?

Usually, sails lose their perfect shape long before they look broken, so they don't work as well anymore. So, at some point, it's time to get new sails for your boat. However, you can delay this by taking good care of them and doing the right maintenance.