420: 420 Performance

[casablanca]

The 420 has a reputation as being a poor performer. Not in my experience. Today we are in light winds with main and gennaker doing very nicely.

6.2 kts in 8.9 apparent.

But you need the right sails.


Bob
CASABLANCA L420 #86

[casablanca]

Bob
CASABLANCA L420 #86

[BambooSailor]

Thanks for posting some real life numbers, confirming what I've been saying: with good sails and good sailors 420/421 are good cats.

[tuskie]

Hi Bob,
Currently underway from Great a Keppel Island to the Capricorn Group, Great Barrier Reef on our L400. We are on a similiar reach under main and genaker. Full of fuel, water and live aboard junk.

10 Kt true ( 10.5 Kt apparent) doing 7.2 knot boat speed.

Similar performance to you and I'm sure we're both doing it very comfortably.

Cheers

[monte]

Thanks for the details. What's STW on those figures?

[casablanca]

When I said "you need the right sails" I meant you need a large headsail in light winds. Our sails are stock standard and my sailing skills are not better than average.

My point is that the 420 sails well in light winds if you have sufficient sail. Certainly doesn't go in < 10 with the jib.

Tired of (ill informed) people bagging the 420.


Bob
CASABLANCA L420 #86