Sail Performance
Review Date:
22/12/2002 Publisher: Adlard Coles Nautical, 2 nd ed., 2003 £ 45
The publication of Tony Marchaj's classic Sailing Theory and Practice in 1964 coincided with my introduction to serious and regular RORC racing. It quickly became the bible for those who wanted to understand practical aerodynamics in order to sail faster. I therefore felt delighted to be asked to review this latest edition based on Professor Marchaj's lifetime of wind tunnel testing and practical sailing.
The first part discusses yacht evolution, rating formulae and speed performance in a clear style. Part 2 comprehensively covers the aerodynamics of sails under 17 headings and Part3 investigates relevant meteorological conditons that need to be considered for performance sailing.
An interesting conclusion is that the ancient crab claw rig is more efficient than the Bermudan! A disappointment is that there is no data on the effect of heeling on leeway angle. Nevertheless, all keen sailors should read this carefully researched reference. - IG
Page created 5 June 2003
