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From: jeffh@plx.UUCP (Jeff Huntington)
Newsgroups: net.rec.boat
Subject: Re: Bottoms
Message-ID: <127@plx.UUCP>
Date: Fri, 29-Mar-85 12:08:48 EST
Article-I.D.: plx.127
Posted: Fri Mar 29 12:08:48 1985
Date-Received: Mon, 1-Apr-85 23:46:15 EST
References: <1380@decwrl.UUCP>
Organization: Plexus Computers, Santa Clara, CA
Lines: 21

Yes, I have experience (both good and bad) with cruising spinnakers. The one
I have is the Hood MPS (Multi-Purpose Spinnaker). I really like it.  I ordered
mine with a snuffer (dousing sock); that's the only way to go.

Cruising spinnakers fall into two basic groups: those that are more like big
baggy, full-headed jibs; and those that are more like spinnakers.  I believe
the jib-like type are more of a drifter/reacher and the spinnaker type look
and work more like a real spinnaker.

My MPS will work in very light air as a jenny and allow me to point up to
about 50 degrees.  As the wind increases, the luff colapses and I can't point
as high.  It works best off the wind.  Going directly downwind, the MPS works
best with the main down.  I have tried to wing it out like a jib downwind,
but it is too full for my wisker pole to be effective.  Actually, it works
out very well sailing on the MPS alone on a broad reach or a run.  It fills,
draws, and looks very much like a real spinnaker when it is used that way.
 
My boat is set up with a 110 roller reefing jib and the MPS; that makes a
very good combination for my sailing area (S. F. Bay).

Go for it, it's fun.