Quantum Sail Design Group

For quotes, questions on service or information on
sailing, call Quantum direct: 1-888-QSDG-889


 
MyQ

How big, how many, what kinds, what materials, trim, handling; you’ll find answers to your questions on anything to do with cruising sails.

Click on a question below to view its answer:

Q: I wrote you a few days ago about an advice for a light downwind sail for a Contessa 26. Thank you very much for your prompt answer. You guys really take good care of your customers. I think you convinced me to get a Quantum asymetrical this fall, instead of a drifter. However, I have a few more questions. * As my main concern is running efficiently in light to moderate winds (say less than 20 kn), which asymetrical would you suggest for the intended use? v3 or v5? * When running, is it best to set the sails wing and wing, using an extra-long whisker pole to keep the asymetrical open or could I just pretend the sail is a regular spinnaker and use an after-guy at the tack, through the end of the spinnaker pole, instead of a down-haul at the bow of the boat? That way, I would benefit from a sort of poor man's orientable sprit, and it would keep the asymetrical far from the main, in clean air, where it belongs. I understand that I'd have to adjust the pole height and orientation, depending on where the wind comes from, relative to the boat. I also might have to rig a twing on the sheet to lower the clew somewhat, but that's no big deal. I'd rather go with the spi pole alternative, because I already have the spi rig on my boat and I scratch my head at the way I would fit that downhaul block in front of the headstay, the place already being cluttered with pulpit, steam lights, anchors and the like, not mentioning bringing that line back to the cockpit. Your opinion would be greatly appreciated. Thank's again Michel Chevanelle


Q: I own a Contessa 26. She is used for cruising. I sometimes travel offshore, often single-handed or with my wife as first mate. So far, the yacht's wardrobe is: Main (Quantum 2+2), triple stitched, loose footed with 3 reef points (Terrific sail!) Storm jib (Quantum) Genoa 150% (Neil Pride) Genoa 110% (North) Genoa 65% (North) I like my little yacht, except when going downwind. I feel something could be done to improve her performance. When the wind is less than, say, 15 knots, some sort of light sail would be welcome. Now, when running, I take down the main and use the 110 genoa and jib, both hoisted together on the same halyard. I keep the 65 open to windward with the spinnaker pole. The 110 is poled to leeward by way of a block at the outer end of the boom. It's powerful in strong winds, but as you probably guessed it, the windier it is the rollier the situation becomes. I hate to run dead downwind, except when I have to do it. I prefer to head up slightly and use the main and, a genoa poled out, even if I have to go through the hassle of tacking the boat. The fact that I sail short-handled excludes the use of a spinnaker (too bad!), and everybody around tells me that asymetricals are wonderful reaching sails but not very effective when running, the sail being in the shade of the main. I know some people use a pole to windward to keep the asymetrical full, but then why not get a real spinnaker? I have come to think that some sort of drifter could be the best solution for me, when running in light wind. The sail could be mounted on a wire luff and free flown from the spinnaker halyard, and if need be, poled out with a whisker pole. I like my Quantum sails a lot. If I decided to get a drifter I would like it to be made from one of the Quantum lofts. However, I don't see those sorts of sails on your web site. The o



Shop for Sails: Racing |  Cruising | One Design |  Super Yachts | Multi-Hulls |  Quote Request | About Us |  Contact Us
Qauntum Sails
International QSDG Sites
© 2010 Quantum Sail Design Group. All rights reserved