AVANCE 36 Sail Configuration Guide

Overview

The AVANCE 36, designed by Norlin and built by OY Batar, is a performance-oriented cruiser-racer characterized by its narrow beam and classic Scandinavian lines. It is engineered for sailors who prioritize windward efficiency and a balanced, responsive helm in both club racing and fast coastal cruising.

Rig Specifications & Performance Analysis

Analysis of the AVANCE 36 rig dimensions reveals a sophisticated, high-aspect sail plan:

• Mainsail Configuration: A P/E ratio of 3.40 indicates a tall, high-aspect rig, which optimizes aerodynamic efficiency and enhances pointing ability.
• Foretriangle Design: The I/J ratio of 3.18 is suited for high-aspect headsails and large overlapping genoas, providing significant power in light to moderate air.
• Sail Area: 50m² total upwind area provides a robust power-to-displacement ratio for a hull of this size.
• Performance: The combination of a 1.80m draft and high-aspect rig makes this vessel exceptionally weatherly and close-winded.

Popular Sail Configurations

• Mainsail: Typically features a full-batten or 2+2 configuration to support the high-aspect leach.
• Headsail: Most owners utilize a 135-150% overlapping genoa for light air, transitioning to a non-overlapping blade jib as the breeze freshens.

Key Characteristics

• High-Aspect Rig: The 3.40 P/E ratio ensures superior lift-to-drag ratios for competitive upwind performance.
• Efficiency Foretriangle: The 3.18 I/J ratio allows for versatile headsail selections across varying sea states.
• Narrow Hull Form: The 2.75m beam produces an easily driven hull with excellent tracking and minimal drag.
• Deep Draft Stability: The 1.80m draft provides the necessary righting moment to support the tall sail plan.

Sailing Considerations

• Recommended for active sail trimming; the narrow beam makes the hull sensitive to heel angle.
• Typical crew requirements are 4-5 for racing, though it remains manageable for an experienced couple when cruising.
• Performance peaks in 10-18 knots of breeze; expect to reef the mainsail as winds exceed 16 knots to maintain optimal speed and control.

Sailmaking Recommendations

For the AVANCE 36, 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, which is critical for the high-aspect rig of the AVANCE 36.

For racing applications, specify a lightweight SurgeX configuration with minimal base weight to maximize performance in light-air tacking duels. For cruising or offshore sailing, add a taffeta protective layer on both sides to enhance UV resistance and abrasion protection against the rig. Based on the 3.40 P/E ratio, a tri-radial fiber layout within the membrane works best to handle the vertical loads of the tall mainsail. A typical inventory includes a SurgeX Mainsail, a 140% All-Purpose Genoa, and a symmetrical spinnaker for downwind legs. With 50m² of sail area, plan to reef around 16 knots to keep the narrow 2.75m hull within its most efficient heel window.

Conclusion

The AVANCE 36 remains a standout Norlin design that rewards precise sail trim and high-quality materials. Explore sail options for AVANCE 36 to unlock the full potential of this high-aspect Scandinavian classic.