SIMONIS 35 Sail Configuration Guide

Overview

The SIMONIS 35, crafted by Scholtz Marina, is a performance-oriented racer-cruiser designed for agility and speed. This design philosophy targets sailors who prioritize tactical racing and fast coastal passage-making in a manageable 11-meter platform.

Rig Specifications & Performance Analysis

• Mainsail Configuration: A P/E ratio of 2.95 indicates a high-aspect rig, optimized for aerodynamic lift and superior upwind pointing.
• Foretriangle Design: The I/J ratio of 3.26 is relatively tall, ideally suited for large overlapping genoas or high-efficiency non-overlapping jibs.
• Sail Area: 53m² total upwind area provides a strong power-to-weight ratio for light-air performance.
• Performance: The configuration favors competitive club racing while remaining responsive for shorthanded cruising.

Popular Sail Configurations

• Mainsail: Typically features full battens to support the high-aspect leach and maintain shape in varying wind speeds.
• Headsail: Most setups utilize a 100-105% furling jib for versatility or a larger 135% genoa for light-wind regions.

Key Characteristics

• High-aspect mainsail delivers excellent lift-to-drag ratios for competitive upwind work.
• Tall foretriangle dimensions allow for powerful reaching with code sails or large headsails.
• Balanced 10.93m hull offers a stable platform for the 53m² sail plan.
• Niche fleet of 20 boats ensures a refined, performance-focused sailing characteristic.

Sailing Considerations

• The high-aspect rig makes the boat very weatherly but requires precise mainsheet trim in gusts.
• Typical crew requirements range from 4 to 6 for racing, though the boat is easily handled by two for cruising.
• Expect a stiff, responsive feel that rewards active sail adjustment.

Sailmaking Recommendations

For the SIMONIS 35, 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 and reduce healing moments. For cruising or bluewater sailing, add a taffeta protective layer on both sides to enhance UV resistance and abrasion protection. Based on the 2.95 P/E ratio, a radial load-path layout works best to handle the high vertical tensions. A typical inventory includes a full-battened main, a versatile 105% jib, and an all-purpose asymmetric spinnaker. With 53m² of sail area, plan to reef around 18-20 knots to maintain optimal heel angles.

Conclusion

The SIMONIS 35 is a refined performance vessel that excels when paired with modern, low-stretch sail technology. Explore sail options for SIMONIS 35 to maximize your boat's potential.