Re: catalina27-talk: Sail configuration questions

[SStangler]

Welcome Michelle!   In a message dated 4/6/2006 1:35:11 P.M. Central Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Which sail is the "powerhouse" for driving the boat? I've been told the jib is the powerhouse and the main is just trim. I've been told the main is the powerhouse and the jib is for speed.  Please help me know what is accurate for MY boat. I don't have a lot of practical sailing experience so take this with a grain of salt, but I just took the 101/103 class and this is what I learned:   I believe the answer to this depends on which point of sail you are on.  The wind hits the controlling sail first, so if you are heading into the wind the genoa is the controlling sail, and away from the wind the main is the controlling sail.  Obviously you want to be worried about correctly trimming the controlling sail first, then the other to gain a bit more speed.   As far as sail conbinations, I was taught to go  from mainsail and genoa, to mainsail and jib, to reefed main and jib (one and then 2 reefs if needed) to reefed main alone.  I have seen people do it differently and sail on genoa alone.  I don't know what is best for your boat.  Do you have a furling headsail?  I am also curious if a 150 genoa would have any shape when furled - this is what we have and I have yet to try.   Shana Stangler 1988 27TR