PERRY 58 Sail Configuration Guide

Overview

The PERRY 58, designed by Bob Perry and built by Dencho Marine, is a high-performance cruiser intended for long-range offshore passage making. This 17.82m yacht balances a sleek, modern hull with a powerful rig optimized for serious blue-water sailors who prioritize speed and windward ability.

Rig Specifications & Performance Analysis

• Mainsail Configuration: A P/E ratio of 2.84 indicates a high-aspect, tall rig designed for aerodynamic efficiency and lift in lighter airs.
• Foretriangle Design: The I/J ratio of 3.09 represents a significant foretriangle, optimally suited for large, overlapping genoas or powerful reaching sails.
• Sail Area: 133m² total upwind area provides a high power-to-displacement ratio.
• Performance: The deep 2.64m draft and high-aspect rig suggest a weatherly yacht capable of maintaining high average speeds across varied sea states.

Popular Sail Configurations

• Mainsail: Fully battened configurations are standard to maintain the 62 m² profile and ensure ease of handling during reefing.
• Headsail: Most owners opt for a 130% genoa for light air, complemented by a heavy-weather working jib for the expansive foretriangle.

Key Characteristics

• Tall Aspect Main: The 2.84 P/E ratio delivers high lift and superior performance when close-hauled.
• Versatile Foretriangle: The 3.09 I/J ratio allows for a wide range of headsails from genoas to code-zero reaching sails.
• Deep Draft Stability: The 2.64m draft supports the 133m² sail plan, keeping the boat stiff and responsive.
• Performance Cruising: Bob Perry's design philosophy ensures a balanced helm even when the 17.82m hull is pushed hard.

Sailing Considerations

• Effective sail handling usually requires powered winches given the 21.00m I-dimension.
• Expect a stiff, stable ride with minimal heel in moderate conditions thanks to the 4.43m beam.
• Performance remains high in light air due to the generous total sail area of 133m².

Sailmaking Recommendations

For the PERRY 58, we recommend SurgeX membrane sails as the optimal choice for most sailors. SurgeX uses continuous fiber construction where fibers are laid along load paths and embedded in a thin membrane, providing superior shape retention compared to traditional Dacron while being more affordable than premium laminates. The continuous fiber structure means less stretch over time, maintaining the designed sail shape for years.

For racing applications, specify a lightweight SurgeX configuration with minimal base weight to maximize performance. For cruising or bluewater sailing, add a taffeta protective layer on both sides to enhance UV resistance and abrasion protection. Based on the 2.84 P/E ratio, a tri-radial fiber layout works best to handle the high vertical loads. A typical inventory includes a fully battened main, a 135% genoa, and a furling staysail. With 133m² of sail area, plan to reef the mainsail around 18-20 knots to maintain optimal hull speed without excessive heel.

Conclusion

The PERRY 58 is a robust, high-performance platform that thrives with modern, high-modulus sails. Explore sail options for PERRY 58 to maximize the potential of this Bob Perry classic.