How well does the Shoalsailer sail to windward?
The Shoalsailer can sail 35 degrees relative to the apparent wind. In 10 knots of true wind, the Shoalsailer will sail to windward at 6 knots. At 14 knots it will sail to windward at 7 knots. At all times going to weather, the slight angle of heel is only 8 to 12 degrees, similar to a multi-hull. At 5 degrees angle of heel, the wetted surface is dramatically reduced as the hull lifts out of the water and the Shoalsailer rides on the bulge along the center of the hull. The helm balance of the Shoalsailer is exceptional, with no weather helm pressure when sailing to windward. The Shoalsailer has an extraordinary ability to climb to windward without slipping sideways, and will not pound in a head sea. The Shoalsailer has sailing characteristics comparable to a fixed keel 32′ monohull with 5′ draft, and much better than those of a 32′ catamaran .
