Considering the many differing designs of sailboats today we could probably write a dissertation about headsails. For the purpose of this article we will simply consider the cruising sloop as our design of choice. Headsails can be differentiated by their general purposes. While a light #1 genoa is designed to help a boat perform in light air, a #4 jib is designed to help the boat survive to windward in extreme conditions. Let's break these sails into two distinct categories, the genoa and the jib.

Most sailboats have winches, from snubbing winches to eight man ?coffee grinders?. Some are electrically or hydraulically powered. They run from halyard winches to swing keel winches. Small boats with no winches on board often have

"Yankee?s crew would be reluctant to duck below decks to eat or sleep, for what we would miss today, we would never see tomorrow." ?Irving & Electa Johnson

I had planned on ending my newsletter affair with the Johnson?s, but I procured a May 1965 National Geographic issue covering Yankee?s Nile voyage. This sent out one last Yankee inspired spark

When purchasing or selling a used sailboat, an often overlooked feature is the sail inventory. Most coastal cruising boats have two sails while flat out racers might have spinnakers, genoas and a high tech main sail, all of space age material. It is important that the inventory be identified accurately

"It?s extremely hard work, mentally and physically. And it?s unrelenting. It?s certainly not romantic. It?s very, very responsible. And that ultimately is the appeal." John Kretschmer, Sun-Sentinel, May 3, 1999

Michigan born author John Kretschmer is scheduled to appear at the Kalamazoo Public Library December 6th, 2006. Mr. Kretschmer is an accomplished sailing captain

Twice in the past week the trade papers have yelped the rising cost of raw materials. This can be expected, as it is the way of the world. Unfortunately both raw materials mentioned directly affect our industry and your pastime. The materials in question

If you have been waiting to buy your new Sunfish, Laser or RS Feva, don't wait any longer. Boats delivered before December 31 will qualify for up to $400.00 in free gear. You can choose from a new dolly, hull and deck covers and Magic Marine brand sailing gear.

In addition to the Sunfish, Laser and RS Feva we are also offering this special for the Laser 2, Nomad, Pico, Zuma, V15 and Vector.

To take advantage of this great deal call us at 231-759-8596.