I am buying a new main for an S&S34 and would appreciate others views on the benefits of having full length battens versus partial length battens. It is a cruising boat, I don't race it (except when there is another yacht within sight). Thanks
If you ever had to put in or remove a batten on the water would be interesting...
I don't know what the length they would be, but putting a 3m batten into a 3m flapping sail on sloppy water would be worthy of a funny video.
If you go full length carry an extra set as you are going to lose a few over the side...
Never lost one yet!
Only been using full batten mains since 1992.
The latest main (2010) I had batten cars fitted as well. This has enabled us to reef without too much trouble on any wind angle, including down wind.
As for the sail itself, the sail hold a much better shape, especially running.
IMO worth the extra money.
Dusty
I have always used full length battens but I got a quote from Fareast Sails who specified partial battens. I've not used a pattially battened main on my boats. I don't sail onto the current mooring, too crowded and close inshore. If I ever had to there are emergency moorings in deeP water I can use. Cost won't be an issue, I am surprised at the quoted price, less than $1300 delivered. Add a bit for full length battens and I might specify a heavier cloth. I am in Nowra for a couple of weeks staying at Husky. Want to meet over a beer?
We had full length battens on our old UFO34 - They were great. We did more racing than cruising.....
Gee the UFO looks like an S&S34 from that angle. Not exactly but the tumblehome and reverse transom require a second look to make sure.
Yes they have very similar lines, the UFO a bit more voluptuous in her curves.
The S&S34 crowd got used to looking at that view (our stern)
I must have missed the reams of tributes to the racing pedigree of the UFO 34. A very nice looking boat all the same.
They were one of the hottest boat on the water back in the early to mid 70's. We bought her in about 2005, and recently sold her. By pure coincidence, the new yacht we bought, a Sydney 36, is just visible in front of us on that photo.
Ahhh!!! love the Carter 33 had one for 5 years.
Called "Ghost".
What is holding the dinghy up in that picture??
I have heard that S&S34s did alright in the 70s and 80s. A win in 1969 S2H I believe and the odd one or two Class wins and places in the S2H and other ocean races. Even had a 3rd in Division in the 2007 S2H.
I have to say that the UFO and the Carter are fine looking yachts. I would be proud to own either of them.
As Ramona notes my earlier comments were tongue in cheek. I agree that hanging stuff off the stern of beautiful boats detracts from their beautifulness. Even the Fleming vane on the back of my Morning Bird is offensive but it is so wonderful to use it has to stay there.