Sailmakers

The evolution in the performance of sails is incredible. Just see the impressive speeds of the America's Cup catamarans currently competing in Bermuda to realize that.

Sailmakers

Published 16/07/2017

By Jean-Christophe Guillaumin

Issue: 11

Published: aug. / sept. 2017

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But if the wings are not for tomorrow on the cruising boat - even if VPLP has just shown a prototype that allows to envisage arranging a rigid wing - sails are progressing and sailmakers all offer sails with greater efficiency at interesting prices. North Sails have just presented a sail in Dacron made with 3Di technology. Today, it is possible to make a sail with traditional materials, but thanks to 3D molding, the shape remains optimal for a competitive price.

Meanwhile, the solar mainsail continues its development. Named PowerSails and developed by UK Sailmakers, France, they has already been fitted on boats from the Route du Rhum 2014 and the Vendée Globe 2016. The concept is simple, adding solar cells to membranes. And it works ... A concept that could be widely used on the cruising boats.

For more information:

www.northsails.com

www.uksailmakers.com