Hi There, In the few times I have posted in the JRA I have posted in the wrong place... I think I have the right place for this, and if not I will get my coat....
I have a Newbridge Coromandel. It has the very delipidated original sail. Someone over the years put bendy battons in the sail. I love to sail her but have never really left the harbour (Salcombe, UK) as I have been working on her and have other commitments.
She badly needs a new sail. I don't have loads of time as have kids and work to keep me occupied. I have found a local sail maker who reckons he can make a new (like for like) new sail for around £1000. Or I could make one my self. My first question is; are the benefits of learning how to make a sail worth allocating lots of time to or should I just get one made so I can keep sailing. Any thoughts would be amazing.
My second question is one of design. I am hoping if I go a new sail (the same as I have now) I would see some improvements in performance simply because it would be new. I would refit stiff battens. Should I take the opportunity to go for a cambered sail or a split junk or just stick with the design that came with the boat and that I know? I guess I am asking if I would (in the long term) regret not 'upgrading' my rig some how.
I am aware that there are not set answers for these questions so I am just looking to get a feel. I live remotely and have no one locally I can to talk to about this so wanted to put my questions on here.
I enjoy working on boats but much prefer sailing them and with limited time I want to spend most of my available time sailing.
I look forward to any thoughts any one may have.
Thank's in advance and have a good day.
John (Coromandel 'China Girl, Salcombe, Devon, UK).