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What Sail Dimensions are Required to Calculate Sail Areas?

The required sail dimensions for calculating the area of any triangular sails are usually its height and the length of its foot. But that only works for mainsails and mizzens with no roach, and jibs with a 90 degree angle at the clew - and what about high-cut headsails, spinakers and cruising chutes? Read on...

Foresail and mainsail dimensions are universally referenced with the letters 'J', 'I', 'E' and 'P' approximating to the length of the foredeck, height of the mast, length of the boom and the height of the main sail - but more accurately defined further down this page.

Yacht designers need these sail dimensions to calculate thought provoking stuff such as the sail-area/displacement ratios of their creations, and sailmakers need them before they put scissors to sailcloth.

If our sailboat's sails were perfectly triangular then, as every schoolboy knows, their area would be 'half the height, times the base' - but with the possible exception of a mainsail with a straight luff, generally they're not. Here's how it works...

Main and Mizzen Sail Dimensions

These are almost right-angled triangles except for the curvature of the leach (the 'roach') which increases the sail area. 

It's usually calculated as:~

Area = (luff x foot)/1.8, or

Area = ( P x E )/1.8, where:~

• 'P' is the distance along the aft face of the mast from the top of the boom to the highest point that the mainsail can be hoisted, and
• 'E' is the distance along the boom from the aft face of the mast to the outermost point on the boom to which the main can be pulled.

For the mizzen sails on ketches and yawls , 'P' and 'E' relate to the mizzen mast and boom.

For more heavily roached sails, the increased area can be accounted for by reducing the denominator in the formula to 1.6.

Clearly calculating sail areas isn't going to be an exact science...

Jibs, Genoas and Staysail Dimensions

For a working jib that fills the fore triangle - but no more - and with a foot that's parallel to the deck, then you've got a 'proper' right-angled triangular sail, whose area is:~

Area = (luff x foot)/2, or

Area = ( I x J )/2, where:~

• 'I' is the distance down the front of mast from the genoa halyard to the level of the main deck, and
• 'J' is the distance along the deck from the headstay pin to the front of the mast.

Genoas, by definition, have a clew which extends past the mast and are described by the amount by which they do so. For instance a 135% genoa has a foot 35% longer than 'J' and a 155% genoa 55% longer. Areas are calculated as follows:~

Area (135% genoa) = (1.44 x I x J )/2, and

Area (155% genoa) = (1.65 x I x J )/2

High-cut Headsails

But these formulae don't work for a high-cut jib with a raised clew - unless you imagine the sail turned on its side such that the luff is the base and the luff perpendicular is the height.

It's still a simple calculation though, once you know the length of the luff perpendicular ( LP ), the sail area is:~

Area = (luff x luff perpendicular)/2, or

Area = ( L x LP )/2, where:~

• 'L' is the distance along the forestay from the headstay pin to the front of the mast, and
• 'LP' is the shortest distance between the clew and the luff of the genoa.

Spinnaker Sail Dimensions

Much like calculating foresail areas, but with different multipliers for conventional spinnakers and asymmetric spinnakers...

Conventional Spinnakers

Area = (0.9 x luff x foot), or

Area = (0.9 x I x J ), where:~

• 'I' is the distance from the highest spinnaker halyard to the deck, and
• 'J' is the length of the spinnaker pole.

Asymmetric Spinnakers

Area = (0.8 x luff x foot), or

Area = (0.8 x  I  x  J ), where:~

• 'I'  is the distance from the highest spinnaker halyard to the deck, and
• 'J'  is the distance from the front face of the mast to the attachment block for the tackline.

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Home > Resources > How to Measure for a New Headsail (Jib or Genoa)

How to Measure for a New Headsail (Jib or Genoa)

25 April 2017

Ask Precision Sails , Hardware , Headsail , Measurements , Sails , Technical Tags: Head Sail Measurements , How to Measure for a Head Sail , New Sail Meaurements

Purchasing a new Head Sail for your sailboat is one of those investments that every sailor will be faced with eventually. Sails don’t last forever, even if you treat them like gold. Once you have decided to invest in new sails you may get that feeling of being over whelmed by the choices and the details involved. When deciding on a loft to work with make sure you choose a loft that will offer a good consultation on the cloth and sail feature choices as well as a design consultation if you want one. Don’t be scared into paying extra for a sail just because your local loft tells you it’s hard to measure. You do not need the added expense of having someone come to your boat and measure for your new sail. If you can read a tape measure you can measure your boat for a new Jib or Genoa.

Measurements Required for a New Head Sail:

Rig Specs – The first thing that you are going to want to find are the General Rig Specs I,P,J,E for your boat. You can get these from your boat manufacturer, online or in your boat manual. These will be used to ensure that the loft you are working with has quoted you the correct size of sail and to ensure that when you take your measurements they are accurate.

Existing Head Sail – Measure your existing Jib or Genoa sail’s general dimensions. Luff (leading edge of your sail), Leech (trailing edge of your sail) and the Foot of your sail. These measurements will be used to compare the measurements that you take from your rig to ensure that everything is working out well. It will also give your designer an idea of what the current sail size is.  If you are ordering a sail that is going to add to your inventory of head sails the only measurement that is of benefit is the luff length.

Rig Measurements – Now we are going to get onto the boat and start to take the measurements of the rig as it sits today. This will ensure that your sail designer is designing a sail for your boat and not the boat that it started as. The two measurements that are required are the I measurement and the J Measurement. The I is the the distance from your the top of your halyard to the base of your mast. This is taken by hauling a tape measure up your halyard until it reaches the top and measuring straight down to the base of your mast.  While you have your tape at the top take the time to also measure the maximum luff length by measuring to the attachment on your furler or on the deck (hank on sails). The J measurement is done by measuring from the base of the mast to the attachment of your fore stay.

How to Measure the Maximum Luff Length of your Genoa or Jib

Now that we have the basic dimensions for your sail it’s time to get into the details that will ensure that your sail will fit the day it arrives.

Luff Specifications: Furling Head Sail or Hank On

Furling head sails attach to your furling system using luff tape.  It is a cord or rope warped inside of a tape.  Each Furling System will have a specific luff tape size that will slide nicely up the track without coming out while under force.

The best way to measure the tape is to use Calipers that can measure in millimeters.  If you don’t have a set use a set of drill bits and either slide them up the track in your furling system or hold them up to the luff tape on your existing sail to determine the proper size.

Luff Tape Specification chart below: 

Track Measurements:

Your sail designer will want to know where your tracks start and stop to ensure that the new sail will be designed with the proper sheeting angles. Attach your tape to the base of the fore-stay and measure to the start and the end of each set of tracks.

J Measurement Video:

Track Measurement Video:

Water Line Measurement:

A good measurement to provide your sail designer is the distance from the waterline to the fore-stay and from the waterline to the base at your chain plates.  These measurements will let your designer ensure the clew height of new Jib or Genoa.

Press Play below to see all the Precision Sails How To Measure for a new Head Sail Videos:

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Rig Dimensions

The following abbreviations are often used to describe various measurements on a sailboat. Precise technical definitions exist for each abbreviation, but the following is a list of simple descriptions.

If you would like to link to or reprint this article please contact  [email protected] .

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Calculating your sail areas

by Phil Anniss 21 Nov 2019 

Lots of equipment on board is load dependant and apart from length and ballast of the boat the primary driver is sail area. It is therefore unsurprising that a lot of hardware manufacturers use sail areas as a primary specification criterion.

This article gives you the key rig and sail dimensions plus the formulas you need to calculate your sail areas.

Key Rig data

I - Height of Foretriangle Elevation of Forestay, measured down to elevation of main shrouds at sheer line. J - Base of Foretriangle Horizontal distance measured from front face of mast at deck to position of headstay at sheer line. P - Mainsail Hoist Elevation of upper mast band or maximum main halyard position, measured down to lower mast band or top of boom. E- Mainsail Foot Horizontal distance measured from aft face of mast at top of boom to boom band or maximum outhaul position. Is - Height of Inner Foretriangle Elevation of Forestay, measured down to elevation of main shrouds at sheer line. Js - Base of Inner Foretriangle Horizontal distance measured from front face of mast at deck to position of inner headstay at sheer line. Py - Mizzen Mainsail Hoist Elevation of upper mast band or maximum main halyard position, measured down to lower mast band or top of boom. Ey - Mizzen Mainsail Foot Horizontal distance measured from aft face of mizzen mast at top of boom to boom band or maximum outhaul position. ISP - Elevation of Spinnaker Halyard Measured down to elevation of main shrouds at sheer line. SPL - Spinnaker Pole Length STL - Spinnaker Tack Length Horizontal distance measured from fron t face of mast at deck, forward and horizontally to position of spinnaker tack attachment point.

Key Sail measurement data

MHB - Main Head Board width MUW - Main Upper Width at 7/8 height MTW - Main Third Width at 3/4 height MHW - main Half Width at 1/2 height MQW - Main Quarter Width at 1/4 heigh

HTW - Headsail Third Width at 3/4 height HHW - Headsail Half Width at 1/2 height LL - Luff Length LP - Luff Perpendicular (shortest dist ance from clew to luff)

SLE - Spinnaker Leech SLU - Spinnaker Luff (both the same on a symmetric spinnaker) SHW - Spinnaker Half Width (distance from mid-point SLU to mid-point SLE) SF - Spinnaker Foot

SLE - Spinnaker Leech SLU - Spinnaker Luff SHW - Spinnaker Half Width (distance from mid-point SLU to mid-point SLE) SF - Spinnaker Foot

Basic Sail Area calculations

P x E / 2 (no roach) P x E x 0.585 (with roach)

Py x Ey / 2 (no roach) Py x Ey x 0.585 (with roa ch)

Jib / Genoa:

(I X J) / 2 x LP% Example LP%: Full size genoa 1 - 150%, genoa 2 - 130%, genoa 3 - 105%, working jib - 85-95%

(SL x (SHW + SF) / 2) x 0,95

More detailed area calculations

Sail area is a big thing for rating certificates. It is a hot area for debate with different rating organisations having their own small variations. However, despite their subtle differences they have similar principles and listed below are the Rated sail areas for the Offshore Rating Congress (ORC).

Basic main and headsail sail areas can be calculated from simple rig data whereas for a more accurate sail area calculations you need detailed measurements of your sail which you can either measure yourself or ask your sailmaker to supply.

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SAIL PLAN DIMENSIONS

Figure out your rig dimensions when it comes to your sails.

The basic rig dimension for a yacht are generally understood. However, there are some differences in how some sailors describe these dimensions. Here is how we define them at North Sails.

I – Height of Foretriangle Elevation of Forestay, measured down to elevation of main shrouds at sheer line.

J – Base of Foretriangle Horizontal distance measured from front face of mast at deck to position of headstay at sheer line.

P – Mainsail Hoist Elevation of upper mast band or maximum main halyard position, measured down to lower mast band or top of boom.

E- Mainsail Foot Horizontal distance measured from aft face of mast at top of boom to boom band or maximum outhaul position.

Is – Height of Inner Foretriangle Elevation of Forestay, measured down to elevation of main shrouds at sheer line.

Js – Base of Inner Foretriangle Horizontal distance measured from front face of mast at deck to position of inner headstay at sheer line.

Py – Mizzen Mainsail Hoist Elevation of upper mast band or maximum main halyard position, measured down to lower mast band or top of boom.

Ey – Mizzen Mainsail Foot Horizontal distance measured from aft face of mizzen mast at top of boom to boom band or maximum outhaul position.

ISP – Elevation of Spinnaker Halyard Measured down to elevation of main shrouds at sheer line.

SPL – Spinnaker Pole Length

STL – Spinnaker Tack Length Horizontal distance measured from front face of mast at deck, forward and horizontally to position of spinnaker tack attachment point.

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Sailing coaching, consulting and instruction, crew training, sailing systems & techniques for solving sailing's challenges. call coop at 401-965-6006, sails-mainsail: the “p” dimension, defination and measurement of..

One of the things that gives most sailmakers gray hair is confirming the dimensions and details of fit for the sails they make. This selection of articles discusses the things sailmakers need to know and what the definitions are so the consumer can provide the correct information. There is nothing worse than getting down to the boat on that lovely Spring Saturday morning with the new sail only to find out the luff slides just don’t quite fit the track. Read on to find out how to help eliminate such frustrations.

Virtually all boats have their “rig plan” defined by four dimensions. These are called the I, the J, the P, and the E. The I & J define the headsail and the P & E the mainsails. There are some other subcategories but let’s start with these four first and we will start with the mainsail and what the P & E dimensions are NOT.

• The P is NOT the luff length of the actual sail.
• And it is NOT the maximum available hoist on the mast.
• The P dimension is NOT anything but this:

The distance up the mast (from the top of the boom) that the designer has calculated as the maximum luff length that a sailmaker might build a sail to (which, in conjunction with the other dimensions, I, J, E) will give the boat the sail area the designer wants it to have.

In plain English, “P” is in the first place a mathematical construct. In practice on most boats, especially those sold with “racer” in the name, the P is measured “from the UPPER edge of a contrasting color band at the gooseneck UP to the LOWER edge of a contrasting color band at the mast head.” This (is an approximate, but close) quote taken from most sail boat rating handicapping rules, like for instance PHRF, IRC and ORR. Any class or make of boat that desires to limit or control the mainsail area will make some definition similar to this. An example of what this (commonly called the black band for obvious reasons) looks like is this on a Hallberg Rassey 31 footer.

The Black Band is located at the tack and P dimensions are taken from the top of the band to the underside of a similar band near the masthead.

Now the observant amongst you will say, “But the tack of the sail is a couple of inches above the upper edge of the black band!” Go to the top of the class- this is the nub of this article. That detail is called the tack set up and we will get to that detail. Another version of the black band is here.

Another view of the Black Band

And if the mast is black-Carbon or anodized-the band is white.

"Black Band" in White, on a Carbon spar

This “contrasting colored band” is at the gooseneck (so the lower) end of the P dimension.

The top end is of course at the masthead, more or less. There are a few variables related to the positioning of the Upper Band of P. One fairly important one is the length of the backstay crane. This is the structure at the top of the mast to which the backstay is attached. The design and installation of the backstay crane varies over  time and boat design and intended use. In the case of older boats, and in particular boats with wooden masts, there is for practical purposes no backstay crane. So backstay crane’s come in all manner of configurations. The one of most interest to the sail makers is the length, I.E. the extent to which the crane and in particular, the attachment of the backstay to the crane is aft of the aft face of the mast.

The detail I am thinking about when measuring  this boat is making sure the sail does not foul the backstay when set to full hoist.

1. The height (length) of the luff of the mainsail is determined first by knowing the boat’s “P” dimension.

The mainsail headboard needs to be able to clear the backstay at full hoist.

On many boats, especially “cruising” boats, like this Alajuela 33 pictured above there is no black band. Quite often the P is determined by consultation with any of the various compendiums of sail boat data sailmakers have at their disposal.The sailmakers must ensure that the mainsail headboard will not foul the backstay when the sail is at full hoist. The sail in the picture is actually at the “correct” height for the boat’s stated “P” dimensions (even though it looks “short”). This was confirmed, (reconciled really with data I had researched on the class of boat)  in advance of the new sail being made by measurement (by me) of the spar. If on the other hand the sail was built to full hoist, right up underneath the crane, it is most likely that the headboard would foul the backstay.

TIP: measure the spar fore and aft at your eyeball level standing on deck. Then eyeball the crane and visualize how long the crane is compared to the spar thickness. So if you reckon the mast is 8 inches long, fore and aft, and the crane is about 50% of the size of the spar, then a good estimate is the crane is 4″.

In this image, below, of an older wooden spar, there is no crane and no black band. Fortunately there is no backstay either. The line passing through the block is the topping lift.

Wooden mast with no backstay crane or backstay

2. The size (how long fore and aft) of the headboard and so how far aft the corner of the headboard may extend (including with all the luff hardware attached) aft of the aft face of the spar. The sail pictured below has a special headboard included with this luff hardware. On this boat the entire sail is about 1.5 inches further aft from the mast than it would be if the sail merely had “normal” slug slides.

Luff hardware has an impact on how far aft the headboard will extend

3. The position of the backstay attachment to the crane.

On some racing oriented boats, like this Pearson Flyer, pictured below, the “P” is literally at the bottom of the main halyard sheave. Indicated in this instance with a white band on the blue spar. The crane is fairly long, for a 30 foot boat. The backstay is led through a, so called, “backstay flicker”, so that in light air the backstay can be eased to let the roach of the sail pass thru. Refer to more information on this in the Full Batten posts.

Race boats have the band very close to the top of the spar

This absence of backstay crane is the main reason why there is often upwards of 18″ difference between the upper P measurement point and the “top of the mast” as is seen, below, on this wooden mast.

The shorter the backstay crane is (or if absent completely) the lower down the sail must be

When you lower your old mainsail examine the anodized aluminum headboard for scarring on the after corner and if it is so marked almost for sure the sail has stretched to the point where it is fouling the backstay. On some boats there is a backstay crane yet the band is still a ways down from the “max hoist” distance, as here.

Close up of black band on Olsen 34 masthead. The black track is a Tides Marine Strong Track

You will observe that in this picture I am measuring the backstay crane so as to make sure what even headboard we select it will clear the backstay. How we figure that angle will be discussed in greater detail further on in this series, but basically we take a dimension from the gooseneck aft to where the backstay passes the end of the boom.

A common default measurement sailmakers use for determining the size of the headboard, stems from racing rules and that is 4% of the boats E dimension. So for a boat with a 12 foot E, then the default headboard would be 5.76, or basically a 6 inch headboard. Unless the boat is racing, and this is a detail of the transaction though the headboard would be shorter, for all the reasons discussed above.

So, to recap, the “P” is “the distance between the top of the lower band and the bottom of the upper band.” It is not the luff length, the max hoist or anything else. The “P” dimension and the “E” dimension, discussed in the next article, are the two pieces of information the sail maker will need to have to even begin to think about figuring out all the things he needs to consult with you on a new sail. Subsequent articles will discuss the detailing at the corners, tack set back, tack set up, reef set back and clew set up battens roach and a few other details pertinent to buying a new mainsail.

The Ultimate Guide to Sail Types and Rigs (with Pictures)

What's that sail for? Generally, I don't know. So I've come up with a system. I'll explain you everything there is to know about sails and rigs in this article.

What are the different types of sails? Most sailboats have one mainsail and one headsail. Typically, the mainsail is a fore-and-aft bermuda rig (triangular shaped). A jib or genoa is used for the headsail. Most sailors use additional sails for different conditions: the spinnaker (a common downwind sail), gennaker, code zero (for upwind use), and stormsail.

Each sail has its own use. Want to go downwind fast? Use a spinnaker. But you can't just raise any sail and go for it. It's important to understand when (and how) to use each sail. Your rigging also impacts what sails you can use.

On this page:

Different sail types, the sail plan of a bermuda sloop, mainsail designs, headsail options, specialty sails, complete overview of sail uses, mast configurations and rig types.

This article is part 1 of my series on sails and rig types. Part 2 is all about the different types of rigging. If you want to learn to identify every boat you see quickly, make sure to read it. It really explains the different sail plans and types of rigging clearly.

Guide to Understanding Sail Rig Types (with Pictures)

First I'll give you a quick and dirty overview of sails in this list below. Then, I'll walk you through the details of each sail type, and the sail plan, which is the godfather of sail type selection so to speak.

Click here if you just want to scroll through a bunch of pictures .

Here's a list of different models of sails: (Don't worry if you don't yet understand some of the words, I'll explain all of them in a bit)

• Jib - triangular staysail
• Genoa - large jib that overlaps the mainsail
• Spinnaker - large balloon-shaped downwind sail for light airs
• Gennaker - crossover between a Genoa and Spinnaker
• Code Zero or Screecher - upwind spinnaker
• Drifter or reacher - a large, powerful, hanked on genoa, but made from lightweight fabric
• Windseeker - tall, narrow, high-clewed, and lightweight jib
• Trysail - smaller front-and-aft mainsail for heavy weather
• Storm jib - small jib for heavy weather

I have a big table below that explains the sail types and uses in detail .

I know, I know ... this list is kind of messy, so to understand each sail, let's place them in a system.

The first important distinction between sail types is the placement . The mainsail is placed aft of the mast, which simply means behind. The headsail is in front of the mast.

Generally, we have three sorts of sails on our boat:

• Mainsail: The large sail behind the mast which is attached to the mast and boom
• Headsail: The small sail in front of the mast, attached to the mast and forestay (ie. jib or genoa)
• Specialty sails: Any special utility sails, like spinnakers - large, balloon-shaped sails for downwind use

The second important distinction we need to make is the functionality . Specialty sails (just a name I came up with) each have different functionalities and are used for very specific conditions. So they're not always up, but most sailors carry one or more of these sails.

They are mostly attached in front of the headsail, or used as a headsail replacement.

The specialty sails can be divided into three different categories:

• downwind sails - like a spinnaker
• light air or reacher sails - like a code zero
• storm sails

The parts of any sail

Whether large or small, each sail consists roughly of the same elements. For clarity's sake I've took an image of a sail from the world wide webs and added the different part names to it:

• Head: Top of the sail
• Tack: Lower front corner of the sail
• Foot: Bottom of the sail
• Luff: Forward edge of the sail
• Leech: Back edge of the sail
• Clew: Bottom back corner of the sail

So now we speak the same language, let's dive into the real nitty gritty.

Basic sail shapes

Roughly speaking, there are actually just two sail shapes, so that's easy enough. You get to choose from:

• square rigged sails
• fore-and-aft rigged sails

I would definitely recommend fore-and-aft rigged sails. Square shaped sails are pretty outdated. The fore-and-aft rig offers unbeatable maneuverability, so that's what most sailing yachts use nowadays.

Square sails were used on Viking longships and are good at sailing downwind. They run from side to side. However, they're pretty useless upwind.

A fore-and-aft sail runs from the front of the mast to the stern. Fore-and-aft literally means 'in front and behind'. Boats with fore-and-aft rigged sails are better at sailing upwind and maneuvering in general. This type of sail was first used on Arabic boats.

As a beginner sailor I confuse the type of sail with rigging all the time. But I should cut myself some slack, because the rigging and sails on a boat are very closely related. They are all part of the sail plan .

A sail plan is made up of:

• Mast configuration - refers to the number of masts and where they are placed
• Sail type - refers to the sail shape and functionality
• Rig type - refers to the way these sails are set up on your boat

There are dozens of sails and hundreds of possible configurations (or sail plans).

For example, depending on your mast configuration, you can have extra headsails (which then are called staysails).

The shape of the sails depends on the rigging, so they overlap a bit. To keep it simple I'll first go over the different sail types based on the most common rig. I'll go over the other rig types later in the article.

Bermuda Sloop: the most common rig

Most modern small and mid-sized sailboats have a Bermuda sloop configuration . The sloop is one-masted and has two sails, which are front-and-aft rigged. This type of rig is also called a Marconi Rig. The Bermuda rig uses a triangular sail, with just one side of the sail attached to the mast.

The mainsail is in use most of the time. It can be reefed down, making it smaller depending on the wind conditions. It can be reefed down completely, which is more common in heavy weather. (If you didn't know already: reefing is skipper terms for rolling or folding down a sail.)

In very strong winds (above 30 knots), most sailors only use the headsail or switch to a trysail.

The headsail powers your bow, the mainsail powers your stern (rear). By having two sails, you can steer by using only your sails (in theory - it requires experience). In any case, two sails gives you better handling than one, but is still easy to operate.

Let's get to the actual sails. The mainsail is attached behind the mast and to the boom, running to the stern. There are multiple designs, but they actually don't differ that much. So the following list is a bit boring. Feel free to skip it or quickly glance over it.

• Square Top racing mainsail - has a high performance profile thanks to the square top, optional reef points
• Racing mainsail - made for speed, optional reef points
• Cruising mainsail - low-maintenance, easy to use, made to last. Generally have one or multiple reef points.
• Full-Batten Cruising mainsail - cruising mainsail with better shape control. Eliminates flogging. Full-length battens means the sail is reinforced over the entire length. Generally have one or multiple reef points.
• High Roach mainsail - crossover between square top racing and cruising mainsail, used mostly on cats and multihulls. Generally have one or multiple reef points.
• Mast Furling mainsail - sails specially made to roll up inside the mast - very convenient but less control; of sail shape. Have no reef points
• Boom Furling mainsail - sails specially made to roll up inside the boom. Have no reef points.

The headsail is the front sail in a front-and-aft rig. The sail is fixed on a stay (rope, wire or rod) which runs forward to the deck or bowsprit. It's almost always triangular (Dutch fishermen are known to use rectangular headsail). A triangular headsail is also called a jib .

Headsails can be attached in two ways:

• using roller furlings - the sail rolls around the headstay
• hank on - fixed attachment

Types of jibs:

Typically a sloop carries a regular jib as its headsail. It can also use a genoa.

• A jib is a triangular staysail set in front of the mast. It's the same size as the fore-triangle.
• A genoa is a large jib that overlaps the mainsail.

What's the purpose of a jib sail? A jib is used to improve handling and to increase sail area on a sailboat. This helps to increase speed. The jib gives control over the bow (front) of the ship, making it easier to maneuver the ship. The mainsail gives control over the stern of the ship. The jib is the headsail (frontsail) on a front-and-aft rig.

The size of the jib is generally indicated by a number - J1, 2, 3, and so on. The number tells us the attachment point. The order of attachment points may differ per sailmaker, so sometimes J1 is the largest jib (on the longest stay) and sometimes it's the smallest (on the shortest stay). Typically the J1 jib is the largest - and the J3 jib the smallest.

Most jibs are roller furling jibs: this means they are attached to a stay and can be reefed down single-handedly. If you have a roller furling you can reef down the jib to all three positions and don't need to carry different sizes.

Originally called the 'overlapping jib', the leech of the genoa extends aft of the mast. This increases speed in light and moderate winds. A genoa is larger than the total size of the fore-triangle. How large exactly is indicated by a percentage.

• A number 1 genoa is typically 155% (it used to be 180%)
• A number 2 genoa is typically 125-140%

Genoas are typically made from 1.5US/oz polyester spinnaker cloth, or very light laminate.

This is where it gets pretty interesting. You can use all kinds of sails to increase speed, handling, and performance for different weather conditions.

Some rules of thumb:

• Large sails are typically good for downwind use, small sails are good for upwind use.
• Large sails are good for weak winds (light air), small sails are good for strong winds (storms).

Downwind sails

Thanks to the front-and-aft rig sailboats are easier to maneuver, but they catch less wind as well. Downwind sails are used to offset this by using a large sail surface, pulling a sailboat downwind. They can be hanked on when needed and are typically balloon shaped.

Here are the most common downwind sails:

• Big gennaker
• Small gennaker

A free-flying sail that fills up with air, giving it a balloon shape. Spinnakers are generally colorful, which is why they look like kites. This downwind sail has the largest sail area, and it's capable of moving a boat with very light wind. They are amazing to use on trade wind routes, where they can help you make quick progress.

Spinnakers require special rigging. You need a special pole and track on your mast. You attach the sail at three points: in the mast head using a halyard, on a pole, and on a sheet.

The spinnaker is symmetrical, meaning the luff is as long as its leech. It's designed for broad reaching.

Gennaker or cruising spinnaker

The Gennaker is a cross between the genoa and the spinnaker. It has less downwind performance than the spinnaker. It is a bit smaller, making it slower, but also easier to handle - while it remains very capable. The cruising spinnaker is designed for broad reaching.

The gennaker is a smaller, asymmetric spinnaker that's doesn't require a pole or track on the mast. Like the spinnaker, and unlike the genoa, the gennaker is set flying. Asymmetric means its luff is longer than its leech.

You can get big and small gennakers (roughly 75% and 50% the size of a true spinnaker).

Also called ...

• the cruising spinnaker
• cruising chute
• pole-less spinnaker
• SpinDrifter

... it's all the same sail.

Light air sails

There's a bit of overlap between the downwind sails and light air sails. Downwind sails can be used as light air sails, but not all light air sails can be used downwind.

Here are the most common light air sails:

• Spinnaker and gennaker

Drifter reacher

Code zero reacher.

A drifter (also called a reacher) is a lightweight, larger genoa for use in light winds. It's roughly 150-170% the size of a genoa. It's made from very lightweight laminated spinnaker fabric (1.5US/oz).

Thanks to the extra sail area the sail offers better downwind performance than a genoa. It's generally made from lightweight nylon. Thanks to it's genoa characteristics the sail is easier to use than a cruising spinnaker.

The code zero reacher is officially a type of spinnaker, but it looks a lot like a large genoa. And that's exactly what it is: a hybrid cross between the genoa and the asymmetrical spinnaker (gennaker). The code zero however is designed for close reaching, making it much flatter than the spinnaker. It's about twice the size of a non-overlapping jib.

A windseeker is a small, free-flying staysail for super light air. It's tall and thin. It's freestanding, so it's not attached to the headstay. The tack attaches to a deck pad-eye. Use your spinnakers' halyard to raise it and tension the luff.

It's made from nylon or polyester spinnaker cloth (0.75 to 1.5US/oz).

It's designed to guide light air onto the lee side of the main sail, ensuring a more even, smooth flow of air.

Stormsails are stronger than regular sails, and are designed to handle winds of over 45 knots. You carry them to spare the mainsail. Sails

A storm jib is a small triangular staysail for use in heavy weather. If you participate in offshore racing you need a mandatory orange storm jib. It's part of ISAF's requirements.

A trysail is a storm replacement for the mainsail. It's small, triangular, and it uses a permanently attached pennant. This allows it to be set above the gooseneck. It's recommended to have a separate track on your mast for it - you don't want to fiddle around when you actually really need it to be raised ... now.

Why Use Different Sails At All?

You could just get the largest furling genoa and use it on all positions. So why would you actually use different types of sails?

The main answer to that is efficiency . Some situations require other characteristics.

Having a deeply reefed genoa isn't as efficient as having a small J3. The reef creates too much draft in the sail, which increases heeling. A reefed down mainsail in strong winds also increases heeling. So having dedicated (storm) sails is probably a good thing, especially if you're planning more demanding passages or crossings.

But it's not just strong winds, but also light winds that can cause problems. Heavy sails will just flap around like laundry in very light air. So you need more lightweight fabrics to get you moving.

What Are Sails Made Of?

The most used materials for sails nowadays are:

• Dacron - woven polyester
• woven nylon
• laminated fabrics - increasingly popular

Sails used to be made of linen. As you can imagine, this is terrible material on open seas. Sails were rotting due to UV and saltwater. In the 19th century linen was replaced by cotton.

It was only in the 20th century that sails were made from synthetic fibers, which were much stronger and durable. Up until the 1980s most sails were made from Dacron. Nowadays, laminates using yellow aramids, Black Technora, carbon fiber and Spectra yarns are more and more used.

Laminates are as strong as Dacron, but a lot lighter - which matters with sails weighing up to 100 kg (220 pounds).

By the way: we think that Viking sails were made from wool and leather, which is quite impressive if you ask me.

In this section of the article I give you a quick and dirty summary of different sail plans or rig types which will help you to identify boats quickly. But if you want to really understand it clearly, I really recommend you read part 2 of this series, which is all about different rig types.

You can't simply count the number of masts to identify rig type But you can identify any rig type if you know what to look for. We've created an entire system for recognizing rig types. Let us walk you through it. Read all about sail rig types

As I've said earlier, there are two major rig types: square rigged and fore-and-aft. We can divide the fore-and-aft rigs into three groups:

• Bermuda rig (we have talked about this one the whole time) - has a three-sided mainsail
• Gaff rig - has a four-sided mainsail, the head of the mainsail is guided by a gaff
• Lateen rig - has a three-sided mainsail on a long yard

There are roughly four types of boats:

• one masted boats - sloop, cutter
• two masted boats - ketch, schooner, brig
• three masted - barque
• fully rigged or ship rigged - tall ship

Everything with four masts is called a (tall) ship. I think it's outside the scope of this article, but I have written a comprehensive guide to rigging. I'll leave the three and four-masted rigs for now. If you want to know more, I encourage you to read part 2 of this series.

One-masted rigs

Boats with one mast can have either one sail, two sails, or three or more sails.

The 3 most common one-masted rigs are:

• Cat - one mast, one sail
• Sloop - one mast, two sails
• Cutter - one mast, three or more sails

1. Gaff Cat

2. Gaff Sloop

Two-masted rigs

Two-masted boats can have an extra mast in front or behind the main mast. Behind (aft of) the main mast is called a mizzen mast . In front of the main mast is called a foremast .

The 5 most common two-masted rigs are:

• Lugger - two masts (mizzen), with lugsail (cross between gaff rig and lateen rig) on both masts
• Yawl - two masts (mizzen), fore-and-aft rigged on both masts. Main mast much taller than mizzen. Mizzen without mainsail.
• Ketch - two masts (mizzen), fore-and-aft rigged on both masts. Main mast with only slightly smaller mizzen. Mizzen has mainsail.
• Schooner - two masts (foremast), generally gaff rig on both masts. Main mast with only slightly smaller foremast. Sometimes build with three masts, up to seven in the age of sail.
• Brig - two masts (foremast), partially square-rigged. Main mast carries small lateen rigged sail.

4. Schooner

5. Brigantine

This article is part 1 of a series about sails and rig types If you want to read on and learn to identify any sail plans and rig type, we've found a series of questions that will help you do that quickly. Read all about recognizing rig types

Related Questions

What is the difference between a gennaker & spinnaker? Typically, a gennaker is smaller than a spinnaker. Unlike a spinnaker, a gennaker isn't symmetric. It's asymmetric like a genoa. It is however rigged like a spinnaker; it's not attached to the forestay (like a jib or a genoa). It's a downwind sail, and a cross between the genoa and the spinnaker (hence the name).

What is a Yankee sail? A Yankee sail is a jib with a high-cut clew of about 3' above the boom. A higher-clewed jib is good for reaching and is better in high waves, preventing the waves crash into the jibs foot. Yankee jibs are mostly used on traditional sailboats.

How much does a sail weigh? Sails weigh anywhere between 4.5-155 lbs (2-70 kg). The reason is that weight goes up exponentially with size. Small boats carry smaller sails (100 sq. ft.) made from thinner cloth (3.5 oz). Large racing yachts can carry sails of up to 400 sq. ft., made from heavy fabric (14 oz), totaling at 155 lbs (70 kg).

What's the difference between a headsail and a staysail? The headsail is the most forward of the staysails. A boat can only have one headsail, but it can have multiple staysails. Every staysail is attached to a forward running stay. However, not every staysail is located at the bow. A stay can run from the mizzen mast to the main mast as well.

What is a mizzenmast? A mizzenmast is the mast aft of the main mast (behind; at the stern) in a two or three-masted sailing rig. The mizzenmast is shorter than the main mast. It may carry a mainsail, for example with a ketch or lugger. It sometimes doesn't carry a mainsail, for example with a yawl, allowing it to be much shorter.

Special thanks to the following people for letting me use their quality photos: Bill Abbott - True Spinnaker with pole - CC BY-SA 2.0 lotsemann - Volvo Ocean Race Alvimedica and the Code Zero versus SCA and the J1 - CC BY-SA 2.0 Lisa Bat - US Naval Academy Trysail and Storm Jib dry fit - CC BY-SA 2.0 Mike Powell - White gaff cat - CC BY-SA 2.0 Anne Burgess - Lugger The Reaper at Scottish Traditional Boat Festival

Hi, I stumbled upon your page and couldn’t help but notice some mistakes in your description of spinnakers and gennakers. First of all, in the main photo on top of this page the small yacht is sailing a spinnaker, not a gennaker. If you look closely you can see the spinnaker pole standing on the mast, visible between the main and headsail. Further down, the discription of the picture with the two German dinghies is incorrect. They are sailing spinnakers, on a spinnaker pole. In the farthest boat, you can see a small piece of the pole. If needed I can give you the details on the difference between gennakers and spinnakers correctly?

Hi Shawn, I am living in Utrecht I have an old gulf 32 and I am sailing in merkmeer I find your articles very helpful Thanks

Thank you for helping me under stand all the sails there names and what there functions were and how to use them. I am planning to build a trimaran 30’ what would be the best sails to have I plan to be coastal sailing with it. Thank you

Hey Comrade!

Well done with your master piece blogging. Just a small feedback. “The jib gives control over the bow of the ship, making it easier to maneuver the ship. The mainsail gives control over the stern of the ship.” Can you please first tell the different part of a sail boat earlier and then talk about bow and stern later in the paragraph. A reader has no clue on the newly introduced terms. It helps to keep laser focused and not forget main concepts.

Shawn, I am currently reading How to sail around the World” by Hal Roth. Yes, I want to sail around the world. His book is truly grounded in real world experience but like a lot of very knowledgable people discussing their area of expertise, Hal uses a lot of terms that I probably should have known but didn’t, until now. I am now off to read your second article. Thank You for this very enlightening article on Sail types and their uses.

Shawn Buckles

HI CVB, that’s a cool plan. Thanks, I really love to hear that. I’m happy that it was helpful to you and I hope you are of to a great start for your new adventure!

Hi GOWTHAM, thanks for the tip, I sometimes forget I haven’t specified the new term. I’ve added it to the article.

Nice article and video; however, you’re mixing up the spinnaker and the gennaker.

A started out with a question. What distinguishes a brig from a schooner? Which in turn led to follow-up questions: I know there are Bermuda rigs and Latin rig, are there more? Which in turn led to further questions, and further, and further… This site answers them all. Wonderful work. Thank you.

Great post and video! One thing was I was surprised how little you mentioned the Ketch here and not at all in the video or chart, and your sample image is a large ship with many sails. Some may think Ketch’s are uncommon, old fashioned or only for large boats. Actually Ketch’s are quite common for cruisers and live-aboards, especially since they often result in a center cockpit layout which makes for a very nice aft stateroom inside. These are almost exclusively the boats we are looking at, so I was surprised you glossed over them.

Love the article and am finding it quite informative.

While I know it may seem obvious to 99% of your readers, I wish you had defined the terms “upwind” and “downwind.” I’m in the 1% that isn’t sure which one means “with the wind” (or in the direction the wind is blowing) and which one means “against the wind” (or opposite to the way the wind is blowing.)

paul adriaan kleimeer

like in all fields of syntax and terminology the terms are colouual meaning local and then spead as the technology spread so an history lesson gives a floral bouque its colour and in the case of notical terms span culture and history adds an detail that bring reverence to the study simply more memorable.

Hi, I have a small yacht sail which was left in my lock-up over 30 years ago I basically know nothing about sails and wondered if you could spread any light as to the make and use of said sail. Someone said it was probably originally from a Wayfayer wooden yacht but wasn’t sure. Any info would be must appreciated and indeed if would be of any use to your followers? I can provide pics but don’t see how to include them at present

kind regards

Leave a comment

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Ever wondered what type of sailboat you're looking at? Identifying sailboats isn't hard, you just have to know what to look for. In this article, I'll help you.

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Boat: Every boat has maximum sail dimensions that cannot be exceeded. They are defined as I, J, P and E, (also Py and Ey for Ketchs and Yawls). Unless you have existing sails to use as a reference, it is always best to physically measure the boat and not rely totally on manufacturers specifications. Occasionally rig sizes will vary even between the same make and size boat. Measurements can also be altered as a result of re-rigging. Main Sails: Attach a tape measure to the main halyard and hoist to the maximum or to the black band around the mast if available. Measure to the main tack fitting for the P measurement. The E measurement is the length of the boom measured from the tack fitting to the clew connection or the black band around the boom if available. Headsails (Spinnakers require I and J measurements): Attach a tape measure to the jib halyard (or top swivel of the furler) and hoist to the maximum. Measure to the deck sheer line for the I measurement. Also measure to the tack attachment point on the bow (or top of furler) for the maximum hoist measurement. Measure from the intersection of the deck and headstay to the front side of the mast for the J measurement. Tip: tie a line to the halyard along with the tape measure in the event the tape should break you can easily retrieve the halyard. Sails: Sails are defined by another set of terms. The luff is the leading edge of the sail. The leech is the trailing edge. The foot is the bottom edge. Jibs and Genoas have a Luff Perpendicular (LP) that is the perpendicular distance from the luff to the clew. The LP defines the sail size in terms of percentage increase beyond the J measurement as in the following examples. Headsails are designated as Number 1, 2, and 3. Number Sail Size LP   100% J 3 115% J + 15% 2 135% J + 35% 1 155% J + 55% Copyright © 2002-2024 by Second Wind Sails. All Rights Reserved. Setting Sail on the Perfect Size: Sailboat Dimensions Guide The call of the open water is undeniable, and for many, the answer lies in the freedom and adventure of sailing. But before you chart your course, a crucial decision awaits: choosing the right size sailboat. Unlike cars with a standardized range of dimensions, sailboats come in a vast array of sizes, each with its own strengths, weaknesses, and ideal uses. This guide will navigate you through the diverse world of sailboat sizes, helping you find the perfect vessel for your sailing dreams. Understanding Sailboat Sizes: A Spectrum of Options Sailboats range from nimble dinghies just a few meters long to awe-inspiring mega-yachts exceeding 100 meters. However, for most recreational sailors, the sweet spot lies between: Dinghies (Up to 10ft): These tiny titans are perfect for learning the ropes (pun intended) of sailing. Highly portable and often inflatable, they’re ideal for day sails on calm waters. Daysailers (15ft to 30ft): These versatile boats offer a balance between size and manageability. They can comfortably accommodate a small crew for day trips, picnics on the water, or even weekend adventures with basic overnighting capabilities. Some larger daysailers might have a small cabin for basic sleeping and storage. Coastal Cruisers (30ft to 40ft): This is a popular category for those who want to venture further from the shore. Coastal cruisers offer more cabin space for overnight stays, galley facilities for onboard cooking, and increased storage for provisions. They are well-suited for weekend getaways or exploring sheltered coastal regions. Bluewater Cruisers (40ft and Above): These are the workhorses of the sailing world, designed to handle extended voyages on open water. They boast spacious cabins, well-equipped kitchens, and ample storage for long-distance journeys. Bluewater cruisers require experienced crews and are a significant investment. Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Sailboat Size Beyond the basic size categories, several factors influence your ideal sailboat pick: Sailing Experience: Beginners might find smaller daysailers easier to handle, while experienced sailors might graduate to larger bluewater cruisers. Crew Size: Consider how many people you’ll typically sail with. Ensure your chosen boat has enough seating and sleeping accommodations for everyone on board comfortably. Sailing Style: Do you envision relaxing day sails on calm waters, or are you drawn to adventurous offshore expeditions? Your sailing style will influence the size and features you need in a boat. Budget: Sailboats, like most things, come with a range of price tags. Larger boats generally require a bigger investment in terms of purchase price, maintenance, and docking fees. Beyond Size: Additional Considerations for Sailors While size is a key factor, other sailboat characteristics play a role in choosing the right vessel: Draft: This is the depth of the keel underwater. A shallower draft allows you to navigate shallower waters but might compromise stability. Headroom: If you plan on spending extended periods below deck, ensure the cabin offers enough headroom for comfortable movement. Sail Configuration: Different sail configurations like sloops, ketches, or schooners offer varying levels of performance and complexity in handling. Finding Your Perfect Fit: Sail Before You Buy The best way to determine your ideal sailboat size is to get out on the water and experience different boats firsthand. Talk to experienced sailors, visit boat shows, and charter different sized sailboats to get a feel for what suits your needs and preferences. Remember, the perfect sailboat is the one that allows you to create lasting memories and enjoy the unique freedom that sailing offers. So, set sail on your research journey, find the size that matches your dreams, and get ready for adventures on the horizon! Happy Boating! Share  Setting Sail on the Perfect Size: Sailboat Dimensions Guide with your friends and leave a comment below with your thoughts. Read PT-73 Torpedo Boats for Sale – Are They Right for You? until we meet in the next article.  Similar Posts Mercury Throttle Control Manual: A Comprehensive Guide Mastering the art of throttle control is a paramount skill for every boat operator, especially when at the helm of a vessel powered by a Mercury outboard engine. Whether you’re navigating tranquil waters or braving challenging conditions, precise throttle management is the key to safety, efficiency, and a truly enjoyable boating experience.  This comprehensive article… How to Pressure Test an Outboard Lower Unit? 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Triton bay boats are crafted with the discerning angler in mind, prioritizing features that enhance fishability, performance, and durability in the demanding saltwater environment. Key Features of Triton Bay… Measurements On this page Sails are measured completely in accordance with the WS Equipment Rules of Sailing (ERS). Sails shall be dry when measured, and on a flat surface with just sufficient tension to remove any wrinkles across the line of the measurement being taken. The following type of sails can be measured: Mizzen staysail The maximum number of sails allowed on board while racing (not including storm and heavy weather sails required by the WS Offshore Special regulations) is defined by the ORC Rating Rule 206 as follows: CDL Above 13.550 13.550 - 11.271 11.270- 9.361 Below 9.631 Mainsail 2 2 2 2 Headsails 8 7 6 5 Spinnakers 6 5 5 4 Mizzen staysail 1 1 1 1 Mizzen 1 1 1 1 Headsails include those set on the forestay and headsails set flying. Spinnakers include symmetric and asymmetric. Mainsail and Mizzen The mainsail is measured with width at the top ( MHB ) and four widths found on the leach between head and clew: at 1/4 ( MQW ), 1/2 ( MHW ), 3/4 ( MTW ) and 7/8 ( MUW ) leech heights. Points on the leech are found by folding the sail to find equal distances between clew and head or between two adjacent measurement points. The height of the mainsail luff ( P ) and mainsail foot ( E ) are measured on the mast and boom as part of the rig measurements . The basic formula for the mainsail area is: The mainsail measured area is calculated by the simplified trapezoid formula above, dividing the luff in amounts of 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 and 7/8. However, the mainsail rated area is calculated by using the actual heights on the luff from the tack point to the points where mainsail widths are measured. The amount of roach will therefore proportionally increase the rated area from the measured one by giving the exact area and centre of effort height for square top and other high roach main sails. If there is a batten above the 7/8 ( MUW ) leech point, then the top width ( MHB ) measurement is increased taking in account effect of a batten positioned this high on the mainsail. Mizzen measurements are the same as for the mainsail, with all corresponding measurements abbreviations having "Y" as a suffix. Headsails shall have the distance between half luff point and half leech point of less than 75% or the foot length . Headsails may be set on the forestay or set flying, i.e. with no sail edge attached to the rig. As a part of measurement process, headsails shall be flagged when set flying and/or having battens. Headsail measurements are similar to those of the mainsail, including the top width ( HHB ) as well as four widths found on the leach between head and the clew: at 1/4 ( HQW ), 1/2 ( HHW ), 3/4 ( HTW ) and 7/8 ( HUW ) leech heights.  Points on the leech are found by folding the sail to find equal distances between clew and head or between two adjacent measurement points. Additional measurements for headsails are: luff length ( HLU ) and luff perpendicular ( HLP ) as the shortest distance from the clew point to the luff. The half width of any spinnaker shall be 75 % or more of the foot length. The symmetric spinnaker shall be symmetric in shape, material and cut, about a line joining the head to the center of the foot. The symmetric spinnaker shall not have adjustable leech lines. Any spinnaker not qualifying as symmetric shall be considered as asymmetric . Where the asymmetric spinnaker is tacked on the centerline, tack pennants of any length may be used. Battens are not permitted on any spinnaker. Spinnaker measurements include: leech length (SLU) , luff length (SLE) , half width ( SHW ) as the distance between midpoints on the luff and leech and the foot length ( SFL ). Mizzen staysails shall be three-cornered. The longest side edge shall be taken as a luff, the shortest edge shall be taken as a foot, and third edge shall be taken as a leech. Mizzen staysail measurements include: YSHF as the shortest distance that can be measured from head to foot, YS HW as the half width or distance between midpoints on the luff and leech, and YSFL as the foot width. Quadrilateral sails and sails set on the wishbone boom Quadrilateral sails and sails set on the wishbone boom shall be measured according to the ERS – Subsection B. The following measurements shall be taken: Leech length as QLE , head length as QHL , foot length as QFL , clew diagonal as QCD as well as the distance between the half leech point and the throat point as QLM . Offshore Racing Congress Partners Log in to ORC Sailor services using email and password ORC Sailor Services allows you access to ORC Database of all ORC certificates issued worldwide such as accessing speed guides, target speeds and do test runs on any certificate. ORC Sailor Services - Password reminder Please enter the e-mail address registered for the ORC Sailor Services to receive your password ORC Sailor Services With an ORC Certificate you are getting more than just a rating. ORC Sailor Services allows you access to the ORC Database of all ORC certificates issued worldwide. Sailboat Rig Dimension The Rig Dimension list is helpful in determining your boat's approximate sail area. Once you have determined your sail area, the figures can be used to calculate the loads generated by the sails for any given wind velocity. The loading calculations are essential to selecting gear with adequate strength for its intended application.These definitions are general enough to provide guidelines to approximate your sail area. None of the information here is guaranteed to be accurate, as boat builders often change rig dimensions without notice. You should physically measure your boat and record precise measurements to calculate accurate sail area figures. CLR Marine has over 8000 keelboats specs listed to help you select hardware or calculate loads. Use this list every time you need to determine your boat's sail area. Click on the appropriate letter to find the rig dimensions of your sailboat: HOW TO CALCULATE SAIL AREAS The following formulas will give you approximately areas for: Mainsail = (P x E) / 2 (add 10% for racing mains) 155% Genoa = (( J x I ) / 2) x 1.65 135% Genoa = (( J x I ) / 2) x 1.44 100% Jib = ( I x J ) / 2 Racing Symmetrical Spinnaker = 1.8 x J x I Racing Asymmetrical Spinnaker = 1.8 x J x I Cruising Asymmetrical Spinnaker = 1.65 x J x I  DEFINITIONS "P" is the luff length of the mainsail, measured along the aft face of the mast from the top of the boom to the highest point that the mainsail can be hoisted or black band. "E" is the foot length of the mainsail, measured along the boom from the aft face of the mast to the outermost point on the boom to which the main can be pulled or to the black band. "I" is measured along the front of mast from the genoa halyard to the main deck. The main deck is where the deck would be if there were no deckhouse. "J" is the base of the foretriangle measured along the deck from the headstay pin to the front of the mast. "JSP" is the length of the spinnaker pole or the distance from the forward end of the bowsprit (fully extended) to the front face of the mast. "ISP" is measured form the highest spinnaker halyard to the deck. "PY" and "EY" are, respectively the luff length and foot length of the mizzen of a yawl or ketch measured in the same way as for the mainsail. "IY" is the measurement from the staysail halyard to the deck. "JY" is the measurement from the staysail stay to the front face of the mast. "LP" is the shortest distance between the clew and the luff of the genoa. Please note that the measurement rules for rig dimensions vary from class rule to class rule and from measurement rule to measurement rule. Many yacht designers use different definitions as well. These definitions are general enough to provide guidelines to approximate your sail area. A Complete Guide to Yacht Types and Sizes by yachtman August 28, 2023 June 22, 2024 Yachts, symbols of luxury and leisure, provide a stunning escape. From motor yachts to sailing yachts, the world of yachting is both diverse and captivating. Journey with us as we explore the different types and sizes of yachts, uncovering their secrets. Climb onboard a superyacht , the queen of the seas. These floating palaces boast remarkable dimensions, with amenities such as swimming pools, helipads, and even submarines. Ideal for those seeking indulgence, superyachts are the epitome of yachting excellence. For a more intimate experience, try a luxury motor yacht . With powerful engines, they let you visit multiple destinations quickly. Enjoy the lap of luxury as you cruise across the sea, appreciating every moment on board these vessels. Sailing lovers will appreciate classic sailing yachts . Watch their silhouettes gracefully cut through the waves, powered by wind. Feel the passion for sailing, and the freedom, on an adventure akin to ancient seafarers. Uncover your inner explorer while savoring unparalleled serenity. Catamarans are ideal for sailing with precision and finesse. With twin hulls offering stability and space, catamarans offer great comfort. Enjoy vibrant sunsets to tranquil anchorages, and bliss on water, with these versatile vessels. For those keen on exploration, expedition yachts are perfect. Built tough and with advanced tech, they are designed for explorations to remote areas. Discover untouched landscapes, encounter wildlife, and make memories in the far-flung corners of the world. Types of Yachts Sailboats to mega-yachts – there’s a large choice of yachts. Let’s delve into the types and sizes that meet different needs. Take a gander at the table below for an overview of yachts: Type Size Range Sailing Yacht 20-100+ feet Motor Yacht 35-200+ feet Catamaran 30-80+ feet Trawler Yacht 40-100+ feet Expedition Yacht 70-400+ feet Flybridge Yacht 50-150+ feet Sports Fisher Yacht 30-70+ feet A guide to yacht anchor types and sizes is vital for understanding the different types and sizes available in the yacht industry. For more information, check out a guide to yacht tenders . Sailing yachts are graceful and use wind power. Motor yachts are speedy and powered by engines. Catamarans stand out with their steadiness and roominess – great for a leisurely cruise. Trawler yachts are great for long-distance trips because they’re fuel-efficient and have comfy living areas. Adventurous souls should check out expedition yachts . Flybridge yachts have an extra deck level for entertainment and relaxation. Sports fisher yachts are designed for fishing, with special gear and amenities. Don’t miss out on your dream yacht – find the perfect one and go on amazing sea experiences. Start your journey now! Sizes of Yachts Yachts come in plenty of sizes, each with its own unique features and capabilities. To discover the perfect yacht for your needs, let us explore the sizes of yachts via a table showcasing their specifications. Here’s what the table looks like: Size Length Capacity Features Tenders Up to 30 ft Up to 10 guests Short trips and transportation to shore Day Boats 30-60 ft Up to 12 guests Day trips, water sports, and entertaining Cruisers 60-130 ft Accommodates 8 Guests Long journeys and luxury living Superyachts Over 130 ft Large groups of guests Swimming pools, helipads, and decks Moreover, take into account that certain yachts have stability systems, others prioritize speed, and some are customized. I once met a yacht owner who wanted a retractable roof! With the help of creative builders, his dream was fulfilled and he got to enjoy a unique experience on the open seas. Factors to Consider in Choosing the Right Yacht Making the right yacht choice involves many key points to think about. These include size, type, budget, use and preferences, like amenities . To decide wisely, assess each factor and see how important they are. Here’s a table of the main considerations when choosing a yacht: Factors Description Size Think about how many guests you’ll have and if you want a larger or smaller yacht. Type Pick between motor, sail, catamaran or mega yachts based on your cruise plans and activities. Budget Establish a realistic budget that covers purchase costs, upkeep, crew wages, insurance fees and mooring. Intended Use Decide if you’ll mostly cruise or if you have special activities in mind like fishing or water sports. Amenities and Features Figure out what features and amenities are essential for your comfort onboard, such as cabins, entertainment systems, water toys or a jacuzzi. In addition, there are unique details you should consider, like if you plan to charter your yacht when not in use, go for a popular model. If privacy is important, choose a yacht with separate crew quarters. So, here are some tips for making the right choice: Get expert advice from experienced yacht brokers or naval architects. Choose respected brands that hold their value in case you resell. Visit boat shows and yacht exhibitions to explore different models and talk to professionals. By taking all factors into account and following these suggestions, you can find the perfect yacht that fits your needs. Whether for leisure or adventure, the right yacht will give you amazing memories on the sea. So many options! In this guide, we explore yacht types and sizes, helping you find the perfect vessel. From sailing yachts to motor yachts , each one offers a unique experience. Plus, you can customize your yacht for a truly special journey. Let me tell you about James . He dreamed of a yacht that matched his adventurous spirit. So, he found a builder who specialized in customization. The result was amazing – a sleek motor yacht with state-of-the-art diving gear, space for fishing equipment, and luxurious comforts. On his customized vessel, James cruised beautiful coastlines and made memories that will last forever. When you search for your yacht, remember that customization is key. You can have a tranquil sailing experience or a thrilling adventure. Dive into the ocean of possibilities – your imagination is the only limit. Frequently Asked Questions FAQ 1: What are the different types of yachts? There are various types of yachts, including motor yachts, sailing yachts, catamarans, trimarans, superyachts, and expedition yachts. Each type offers unique features and advantages. FAQ 2: What is the difference between a motor yacht and a sailing yacht? A motor yacht, as the name suggests, is powered by an engine and offers more speed and convenience. On the other hand, a sailing yacht relies on wind power and provides a traditional sailing experience with a slower pace. FAQ 3: What is a superyacht? A superyacht is a luxury yacht with high-end amenities and extravagant features. These yachts often offer spacious cabins, multiple decks, swimming pools, helipads, and other luxurious facilities. FAQ 4: What is the average size of a yacht? Yachts can vary greatly in size. The average size of a yacht ranges from 30 to 60 feet. However, larger yachts, known as superyachts, can measure over 100 feet in length. FAQ 5: What is the advantage of a catamaran or trimaran? Catamarans and trimarans provide more stability due to their dual or triple hull design. They offer spacious interiors, increased deck space, and enhanced fuel efficiency compared to traditional monohull yachts. FAQ 6: What is an expedition yacht? An expedition yacht is designed for long-range cruising and exploring remote destinations. These yachts feature robust construction, advanced navigation systems, and ample storage for supplies and equipment. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 672 Wine Club Motorcycles Car of the Month Destinations Men’s Fashion Watch Collector Art & Collectibles Vacation Homes Celebrity Homes New Construction Home Design Electronics Fine Dining Dubai Tourism Gateway Bronco On Location – Olympic Games Paris 2024 One&Only The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Saratoga Spring Water Sports & Leisure Health & Wellness Best of the Best The Ultimate Gift Guide The World’s Largest Carbon-Fiber Sailing Catamaran Could Be Yours for $19 Million The 110-foot "mousetrap" previously belonged to logitech co-founder daniel borel., rachel cormack. Digital Editor Rachel Cormack's Most Recent Stories This new 82-foot yacht is like an elegant triplex for the high seas, this 134-foot superyacht with a glass-edged infinity pool could be yours for a cool $26.5 million. Mark Wahlberg’s Clothing Line Just Opened Its First Store in L.A. Share This Article The world’s largest carbon-fiber sailing catamaran is looking for a new owner. Related Stories The New Land Rover Defender Is the Most Powerful Version Yet This New Pagani Hypercar Is the First and Only Manual Transmission Huayra First Drive: The Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II Delivers a New Look With Mixed Results After completing a decade-long world voyage, Mousetrap underwent an extensive, multi-year refit from 2021 to 2023. The owner’s directive was to spare no expense to restore her to as-new condition, with a knowledgeable crew and a significant capital investment helping with the makeover. The revamp included new machinery, new sails, servicing of mast and rigging, new teak decks, fresh paint, and overall refinishing. “With outstanding sailing performance, impressive dimensions, and ‘as new’ condition, Mousetrap stands out as the finest large sailing catamaran available today,” Fraser says. Mousetrap has a large, open-plan layout that will appeal to modern seafarers, too. With an innovative carbon-fiber arch supporting the mast, the main salon is free of posts and bulkheads that might otherwise interrupt flow. She also has a wide 46-foot beam that results in a light, airy interior with 180-degree ocean views. The aft deck spans the entire beam, creating a huge alfresco dining and lounging space. A large sliding door leads to the main salon, enabling seamless indoor and outdoor living. The main salon is divided into four sections that can be used for relaxation, dining, working, and more. The space features an elegant desk, a large central bar, a giant wraparound sofa, and a formal dining table for fancy dinner parties. The salon extends to the foredeck where guests will find a custom six-person Jacuzzi, a plush lounge, and a concealed ladder for easy water access. Click here to see all the photos of Mousetrap. Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the… Read More On: Fraser Yachts Sailing Yacht More Marine Uber Is Letting Riders Book Private Yachts and Water Limos in Europe Candela and Polestar’s First Electric Foiling Boat Was Just Delivered—and It’s a Stunner The Grand UK Debut JULY 17 - 19, 2024 Head to the British countryside to test and evaluate the top luxury and performance vehicles of 2024. Give the Gift of Luxury Latest Galleries in Marine Meet ‘Dar,’ the Sleek 295-Foot Superyacht That’s Shaped Like a Shark ‘Orenda’ Superyacht in Photos More from our brands, salma hayek flaunts nautical flairs in navy tweed gucci jacket and graphic striped top at wimbledon day seven, mykayla skinner firestorm vaults safesport back into scrutiny, ‘fly me to the moon’ review: a rocket’s red glare gives proof to scarlett johansson and channing tatum’s screen chemistry, dorothy lichtenstein, president of the roy lichtenstein foundation, dies at 84, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors. 247 IMAGES 1.3 H28 Sail Dimensions IOD model yacht sail plan with dimensions for 48" loa Sail plan Rig Specification Diagram For Sailboats: Mainsail & Headsail Understanding Sailboats and Sailing VIDEO Hanse 510 I Freedom Marine International Yacht Sales IOM yacht SailCam Wait for the inside 🤯 Contrast 400 Sailing Yachts Roskilde Sailing Yacht Finngulf 391 Sailing Yacht COMMENTS Understanding Sail Dimensions and Sail Area Calculation Primary dimensions for calculating areas of triangular sails. It's usually calculated as:~. Area = (luff x foot)/1.8, or. Area = ( P x E )/1.8, where:~. 'P' is the distance along the aft face of the mast from the top of the boom to the highest point that the mainsail can be hoisted, and. 'E' is the distance along the boom from the aft face of ... SAIL PLAN DIMENSIONS However, there are some differences in how some sailors describe these dimensions. Here is how we define them at North Sails. I - Height of Foretriangle. Elevation of Forestay, measured down to elevation of main shrouds at sheer line. J - Base of Foretriangle. Horizontal distance measured from front face of mast at deck to position of ... Rig Dimensions The following rig dimensions designated by " I ", " J ", " P ", and " E " are needed to produce a price quote. They are convenient names to use because they are short and are understood throughout sailmaking…. " P " is the luff length of the main-sail, measured along the aft face of the mast from the top of the boom to the ... Boat-Specs.com: Sailling boats and yachts specifications Boat-Specs.com is an interactive database that allows you to discover and compare various sailboats and sailing yachts through their specifications. The multi-criteria search engine helps you to find exactly the boat you are looking for. Sailing boats (1605) Sailboat builders (93) Sailboat designers (150) Sailboat ranges (47) Sailboat ... How to Measure for a New Headsail (Jib or Genoa) Existing Head Sail - Measure your existing Jib or Genoa sail's general dimensions. Luff (leading edge of your sail), Leech (trailing edge of your sail) and the Foot of your sail. These measurements will be used to compare the measurements that you take from your rig to ensure that everything is working out well. It will also give your ... Calculating your sail areas Example LP%: Full size genoa 1 - 150%, genoa 2 - 130%, genoa 3 - 105%, working jib - 85-95%. Spinnaker: (SL x (SHW + SF) / 2) x 0,95. More detailed area calculations. Sail area is a big thing for rating certificates. It is a hot area for debate with different rating organisations having their own small variations. Know-how: Modern Rigs 101 Know-how: Modern Rigs 101. Peter Nielsen. Updated: May 20, 2024. Original: Mar 5, 2020. This classic Sabre carries the kind of masthead rig typical of its era; note how the large genoa sheets outside the shrouds (left); This X-Yachts performance-cruiser provides an excellent example of a modern fractional rig; note the narrow headsail (right ... HOW TO DIMENSION A SAILING CATAMARAN? Sails Figure 5 Sail ratios A handy way to do the sail dimensioning is to use proportional ratios for dimensions. Sail dimensions are then in relation to length waterline L WL = 100%. For example: Mainsail luff P ratio: kP:= 125 % Mainsail base E ratio: kE:= 50 % Fore triangle base J ratio kJ:= 36 % Other dimensions are from the catamaran structure: Rig Dimensions Rig Dimensions. The following abbreviations are often used to describe various measurements on a sailboat. Precise technical definitions exist for each abbreviation, but the following is a list of simple descriptions. LOA. Length Overall - overall tip-to-tip length of the boat. LWL. Calculating your sail areas SHW - Spinnaker Half Width (distance from mid-point SLU to mid-point SLE) SF - Spinnaker Foot. Basic Sail Area calculations. Mainsail: P x E / 2 (no roach) P x E x 0.585 (with roach) Mizzen: Py x Ey / 2 (no roach) Py x Ey x 0.585 (with roa. How to choose a boat Let's take a quick walk through the dimensions, measurements that are widely quoted in yacht specs. There's a huge amount to consider when buying a sailing yacht and it's very important to get it right. ... In practice, a sailing yacht's draught can increase by 5-10cm (2-4in) when moving from salt water to fresh, and it can increase by ... SAIL PLAN DIMENSIONS Sailor Jacket Reversible Sailor One Design Polo Shirts Custom Sails Shirts Sails-Mainsail: The "P" dimension, defination and measurement of A common default measurement sailmakers use for determining the size of the headboard, stems from racing rules and that is 4% of the boats E dimension. So for a boat with a 12 foot E, then the default headboard would be 5.76, or basically a 6 inch headboard. Unless the boat is racing, and this is a detail of the transaction though the headboard ... The Ultimate Guide to Sail Types and Rigs (with Pictures) How much does a sail weigh? Sails weigh anywhere between 4.5-155 lbs (2-70 kg). The reason is that weight goes up exponentially with size. Small boats carry smaller sails (100 sq. ft.) made from thinner cloth (3.5 oz). Large racing yachts can carry sails of up to 400 sq. ft., made from heavy fabric (14 oz), totaling at 155 lbs (70 kg). Sail Measurement Assistance Sail Measurement Assistance. Boat: Every boat has maximum sail dimensions that cannot be exceeded. They are defined as I, J, P and E, (also Py and Ey for Ketchs and Yawls). Unless you have existing sails to use as a reference, it is always best to physically measure the boat and not rely totally on manufacturers specifications. Setting Sail on the Perfect Size: Sailboat Dimensions Guide Understanding Sailboat Sizes: A Spectrum of Options. Sailboats range from nimble dinghies just a few meters long to awe-inspiring mega-yachts exceeding 100 meters. However, for most recreational sailors, the sweet spot lies between: Dinghies (Up to 10ft): These tiny titans are perfect for learning the ropes (pun intended) of sailing. Sails The maximum number of sails allowed on board while racing (not including storm and heavy weather sails required by the WS Offshore Special regulations) is defined by the ORC Rating Rule 206 as follows: CDL. Above 13.550. 13.550 - 11.271. 11.270- 9.361. SAILBOAT RIG DIMENSIONS Please note that the measurement rules for rig dimensions vary from class rule to class rule and from measurement rule to measurement rule. Many yacht designers use different definitions as well. These definitions are general enough to provide guidelines to approximate your sail area. J/24 S.A.: Sail Area. The total combined area of the sails when sailing upwind. S.A. (reported) is the area reported by the builder. (Verses ** S.A. (100% Fore + Main Triangles) which is the area as defined by the rig measurements.) S.A. (reported) can differ depending on the size of the head sail used to calculate the S.A. SADLER 29 S.A.: Sail Area. The total combined area of the sails when sailing upwind. S.A. (reported) is the area reported by the builder. (Verses ** S.A. (100% Fore + Main Triangles) which is the area as defined by the rig measurements.) S.A. (reported) can differ depending on the size of the head sail used to calculate the S.A. A Complete Guide to Yacht Types and Sizes 40-100+ feet. Expedition Yacht. 70-400+ feet. Flybridge Yacht. 50-150+ feet. Sports Fisher Yacht. 30-70+ feet. A guide to yacht anchor types and sizes is vital for understanding the different types and sizes available in the yacht industry. For more information, check out a guide to yacht tenders. Koru (yacht) Koru is a luxury custom superyacht owned by Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon.The vessel was built in the Netherlands by Oceanco starting in 2021, and delivered in April 2023. It is a three-masted sailing yacht 127 meters (417 ft) long and reported to have cost $500 million or more. World's Largest Carbon-Fiber Sailing Catamaran Lists for $19 Million The world's largest carbon-fiber sailing catamaran is looking for a new owner. The 110-foot Mousetrap, once the pride and joy of Logitech co-founder Daniel Borel, has been listed for sale with ... X-99 S.A.: Sail Area. The total combined area of the sails when sailing upwind. S.A. (reported) is the area reported by the builder. (Verses ** S.A. (100% Fore + Main Triangles) which is the area as defined by the rig measurements.) S.A. (reported) can differ depending on the size of the head sail used to calculate the S.A. MATILDA 20 S.A.: Sail Area. The total combined area of the sails when sailing upwind. S.A. (reported) is the area reported by the builder. (Verses ** S.A. (100% Fore + Main Triangles) which is the area as defined by the rig measurements.) S.A. (reported) can differ depending on the size of the head sail used to calculate the S.A. catamaran gulet motorboat riverboat sailboat trimaran yacht