Yachting Monthly - Essential Sailing Tips, Gear Reviews, and Regatta News

Yachting Monthly: Essential Sailing Tips, Gear Reviews, and Regatta News brings decades of expertise to every issue. Some readers say it helps you feel the breeze around the helmstation and through the deck, and youd never miss the last word on safety, sustainability, and operation in challenging conditions. From 42ft go-anywhere hulls to tidy 14ft daysailers, we cover hulls, specifications, and a signature approach youd trust.

Our gear reviews dive into sailplans, mainsail, and deck panels, with tests that examine vinylester hull cores, asahi panels, and how long components last. We evaluate refit needs and offset design trade-offs, and which specifications deliver true performance. We profile builders like fountaine-pajot and burgess, noting models that suit a camper-style long-range cruising life, while still offering speed for go-anywhere journeys. If you want a signature craft that balances power and comfort, our analysis helps you choose what makes sense for your ownership journey, even if youd consider a refit later around the world.

Located around the world, our coverage spans a range of model lines–from the signature fast designs to cruising layouts with headroom and berths. We compare sizes, across a size range from 14ft to 42ft, and evaluate sailplan and mainsail configurations, explaining how focsle and side decks influence directional handling. Read about boats from respected yards such as fountaine-pajot, burgess, and motte, and discover how vinylester cores, panels, kluin hardware, and sustainability ideas shape ownership. When a project calls for a refit, we show you what to do to keep operation smooth and go-anywhere sailing in any breeze.

Join now for a sale and exclusive access to reports that emphasize sustainability, clear specifications, and real-world results. From panels and vinylester cores to self-tacking systems and helmstation ergonomics, we help you plan the next cruise and improve handling, even if you are new to the sea or a seasoned owner. Whether you own a 42ft yacht or a 14ft dinghy, Yachting Monthly is your trusted guide to sailing, from ownership to the last horizon around the world.

Yachting Monthly: Practical Sailing Tips, Gear Reviews, and Regatta News; Grand Soleil 44

monthly issue of Yachting Monthly focuses on practical sailing tips, gear reviews, and regatta news for Grand Soleil 44 owners and skippers. several topics cover practical steps for handling, maintenance, and race prep, with real-world notes from the marina to the racecourse. the article compares monohull options with multihull choices across the area of offshore cruising, and it includes perspectives on brands such as dufour and sojana, offering something tangible for every level of ownership.

In this issue, the Grand Soleil 44 area demonstrates a good-looking, easy-to-handle rig that is manageable in light wind and breeze. Looking at the mast, headstay, transom, and sail plan, the boat delivers neutral balance and speed, while offering an owner-friendly operation. For ownership, the ship's systems shine in terms of reliability, so you can master the basics and enjoy the voyage, then enjoy the ride with confidence. partly due to load distribution, the setup remains predictable even when the crew is partly new to the boat.

• Practical handling and rig tuning: self-tacking features reduce the need for constant steering, making upwind work easier on a long beat. A stiff helm and well-set winches keep trim precise, while the sail plan stays adjustable enough to maintain speed in a wide range of conditions. instead of heavy reefing, fine trim adjustments maintain control and reduce fatigue for the crew.
• Gear and maintenance: the heads, dressing, and protection zones are checked for wear; the optional headstay and deck hardware are evaluated for durability and longevity. The layup around the hull is inspected for signs of wear, and any area never used before is tested carefully to avoid surprises. greater durability is highlighted for components exposed to salt spray and sun.
• Regatta notes and views: several regattas across the season test the Grand Soleil 44’s balance and handling. The boat boasts good speed, a light yet stiff hull, and reliable operation on both upwind and downwind legs. A ketch option can be considered in certain fleets, but the standard rig remains a strong contender in most courses. From the crew perspective, this section offers views on tactics and teamwork, offering insight into same-tongue coordination under time pressure.
• Sustainability and tech: plant-based coatings, lithium batteries, and lightweight components are discussed, with practical tips to find upgrade paths and maintain system efficiency. This includes how to come down from high loads safely while keeping the electrical system reliable, and how to protect gear in harsh conditions. Optional upgrades and the latest gear reviews are presented so owners can plan ahead for maintenance and upgrades.
• Regatta logistics and ownership tips: monthly notes cover course selection, port planning, and what to look for in gear so you can maintain ownership quality. Dressing and protection routines are outlined to keep deck finishes and electronics protected, while the tender is covered in stowage and launch operations. These tips are designed to master the operation of the boat and enhance performance during the regatta season.

In practice, the Grand Soleil 44 delivers a balanced ownership experience: a good-looking hull, a reliable sail plan, and a practical approach to maintenance. Whether you’re training a crew, racing a regatta, or cruising with family, the combination of protection, performance, and predictable handling makes every voyage more enjoyable. Then come down from gusty moments, find your rhythm, and enjoy the sailing with the same confidence you expect from a monthly briefing on the regatta circuit.

Grand Soleil 44: Hands-on Guidance for Performance, Maintenance, and Racing

Yachting Monthly continues with real-world, hands-on guidance for the Grand Soleil 44, a model that blends luxurious living with performance-oriented engineering. This section covers how to maximize speed and handling, how to carry out routine maintenance, and how to approach racing with a practical, ownership-friendly mindset. theres a focus on what is possible on a yacht in this class, including integration of high-grade systems and a deck layout that supports easy crew movement.

Performance foundation starts with a hull that aligns with the best in class and a deckhouse that keeps the crew close to the action. The rig is designed for fast response, with a lightweight, infusion-built deck structure that resists flex under load. The staysail and modern sail plan boost power in coastal winds, while the directional balance keeps the helm predictable. A simple door from the cockpit to the deckhouse makes it easy to monitor conditions, and the square, open cockpit keeps the crew moving efficiently during maneuvering and racing. Then, you’ll feel the difference in handling as you press through headwinds and push to windward.

Maintenance and ownership reality: The Grand Soleil 44 offers accessible access to the engine and electrical spaces, with a four-cabin layout that includes an owners’ suite and comfortable crew quarters. The deck and hull join with a standard, robust construction derived from vismara-inspired, high-stiffness materials. Regular maintenance cycles – including checking the lithium power system, cleaning deck fittings, and inspecting hull seams – added safety features and easy provisioning for longer passages. Ownership is straightforward because the layout supports simple checks and a smooth, open operation for owners and crew alike.

Racing readiness is built in, with a carefully tuned sail plan and a crew-friendly deck layout. The boat handles well among a variety of wind and sea states, and the four-square deck arrangement improves line-of-sight for the helm. The staysail-inclusive setup, along with a robust bow thruster and control systems, provides options for aggressive pacing or steady, measured progress. In trials, teams from kluin and tanna have reported excellent control; drivers from sojana and fortescue-based campaigns have demonstrated speed and accuracy, with several podium performances and potential awards on the circuit. The design remains flexible enough to adapt as conditions change, keeping you competitive across the fleet.

Construction and materials emphasize a luxurious standard without sacrificing strength. Built by skilled yards in lombard traditions, the 44 uses infusion techniques to reduce weight and increase stiffness, while staying cost-effective for owners. The size of the boat is optimized for coastal sailing and regatta courses, offering generous cabins and a dedicated owner’s suite. The overall look is luxurious yet practical, with a careful balance between open living spaces and self-contained quarters that support long passages and day-sail events alike.

Systems and power include a high-capacity lithium battery setup, designed to run navigation, lighting, and communications with minimal weight. The operation philosophy prioritizes reliability; a well-planned switchboard, circuit protection, and prudent redundancy ensure you can stay out longer with less worry. The editor provides a concise list of checks you can run using onboard tools to monitor health, and the crew should follow a regular maintenance schedule to maximize lifespan. Using these guidelines, you’ll have a robust energy system that supports long coastal passages and serious racing alike.

Handling and on-water guidance covers deck management, sail handling, and crew choreography. The deck layout places winches, clutches, and primaries within easy reach, while the deckhouse offers shelter without isolating the helm. When you need to push the boat into the breeze, you’ll appreciate the open, slightly accelerated feel of the cockpit and the added room for the crew to move. The infusion-based structure supports a solid, safe feel under load, and the overall design emphasizes very precise, fast handling for both cruising days and competitive regattas.

In brief: The Grand Soleil 44 is positioned as a greater yacht among coastal cruisers, delivering a combination of style, performance, and practical maintenance. With a luxurious suite and a strong, standard build, this model offers an offering for owners seeking a versatile performance cruiser. The latest iteration continues to set benchmarks in speed, handling, and ease of use, a formula that keeps the vessel competitive against other yachts in its class and ready for upcoming regattas and club races.

Rig Tuning: Step-by-Step Calibration for Grand Soleil 44

Rig tuning for the Grand Soleil 44 demands a systematic approach that aligns the mast, sails, keel, and hull into a balanced, efficient system. The process is similar to what you’d perform during a shipyard refit or an on-board maintenance window, and the aim is a living, responsive boat that remains elegant under load. This guide includes a practical, step-by-step procedure you can follow while underway or at rest–whether you’re prepping for regatta conditions or a steady cruising schedule. It highlights how carbon components and hydraulic backstay controls interact with weight distribution to produce predictable handling. For magazines and market readers alike, this material serves as an ideal reference that remains relevant through seasons, with notes you can apply on single or multihull layouts, including ketch, catamarans, and other configurations, and on-board setups that balance board, hull, and rig. Launched with four berths in the salon and living accommodations, the Grand Soleil 44 offers options that suit smaller crews, and many boats remain solid choices even after a refit. If the boat is used for day trips or longer living aboard seasons, you’ll still benefit from a balanced baseline. Through methodical checks, you can keep the rig stable and predictable, whatever brand you trust.

Step 1 – Pre-checks and baseline data: inspect the mast step, spreaders, chainplates, and all control lines. Confirm masthead limit switch (if installed) and verify halyard and reefing lines run cleanly. Record the current shroud and stays tension, measure backstay indicator, and note the boat size and draft with a full crew and gear. These baseline numbers let you compare future changes and avoid over-tuning. If you have a plan or a brand preference, your notes should include what equipment is original versus what was replaced during a refit or upgrade. They also help you anticipate how the rig responds in light versus heavy air, almost like a living lab on your boat.

Step 2 – Baseline rig geometry: measure mast rake and bend, boom height, and sail hang points at the deck. Use a plumb line to verify rake, then set the halyard tension to a reasonable value. For accuracy, use precision tools, and if possible, a 11in winch drum or equivalent to standardize cap shroud and forestay adjustments. Record the initial numbers so you can reproduce the setup on the next trial day. Through this check, you’ll see how the mainsail luff sits and how the headsail leads interact with the shrouds. The baseline approach applies to catamaran or other multihull configurations too, though the details differ by hull form.

Step 3 – Standing rigging tuning: adjust lowers and cap shrouds to bring the mast into column with the keel and centerline. Use the hydraulic backstay to fine-tune bend and mainsail luff tension, ensuring the mast stays within the ideal bend curve. Balance the tension so that the hull remains level and the sail shape is balanced across wind ranges. Compare on-board performance with the expectations for regatta conditions, and keep a log of tension values to guide future adjustments. Never over-tension beyond comfort or structural limits, and note how extra tension can affect weight distribution and handling on the side. Include a note about the narrow slot you may use in the chainplate region to reduce twist in tight conditions.

Step 4 – Sail trim and adjustments: tune the jib/genoa leads, mainsheet, and vang to achieve the intended draft and leech balance. For a Grand Soleil 44, the staysail or staysail-like geometry may be used in heavier winds; in lighter air, blooming the main with a balanced twist improves performance. Make sure the weight on-board is balanced and does not shift the crew excessively; consider what weight you carry when calculating trim. Adjust the boom angle to avoid flush airflow over the mainsail and optimize leech twist. If you are using a carbon mast or carbon fittings, remember that rigidity can reduce sag, but you still want to avoid over-tensioning that leads to a harsher ride. The plans should also work when docking alongside a stern or a side berths; ensure lines and fairleads align to prevent chafe near the dining area. They help you maintain a solid balance during maneuvers aboard a 49ft or similar platform.

Step 5 – Sea trial and data interpretation: at a moderate wind, measure the boat’s heel angle, true wind angle, and boat speed, recording data points through a series of trims. They may vary depending on whether you run a single large headsail on a bigger Grand Soleil hull or a smaller headsail on an earlier launch. Note how the keel and hull interact with weight distribution, and adjust accordingly. If you aim for regatta-like performance, compare the actual boat behavior with the signature performance highlights in magazines and with other boats in the market, including hulls from hylas, jongert, camper, dufour, and bavaria. For a stronger side wind, evaluate the effectiveness of the staysail and consider using a carbon-fiber backstay to maintain stability during maneuvers. A thorough check also reveals whether the fridge stays compact and properly fed during long passages. Never forget to document what you learn.

Step 6 – Documentation, maintenance, and continued optimization: keep a living log of all adjustments and outcomes, and schedule time for a formal refit if you notice persistent creaking or components showing wear. This record helps you plan weight changes, dining gear repositioning, and potential upgrades to line hardware, providing an interactive framework for ongoing improvements. If you need professional help, consider a shipyard service or a mobile boatyard to arrange a mid-season check or refit, using platforms like boatsetter or equivalent. For a balanced system, maintain contact with the manufacturer’s service network and the shipyard for any unique issues that require expert attention. If you want to extend the boat’s life, store spare parts in a side locker and keep a backup 11in spare drum for the hydraulic system. Thanks for reading and feel free to contact us with your questions and continue refining the rig–this is how you keep a Grand Soleil 44 trustworthy through many seasons of regatta and cruising.

Winch and Line Care: Quick Maintenance Between Regattas

The best maintenance suite for winches and lines keeps your sailing operations ready between regattas and handles wind loads with confidence. This practical routine fits into a busy schedule, focusing on quick checks that prevent small issues from becoming costly downtime. It adds value and added reliability, supporting sustainability and a thoughtful yachting operation that serves years of use.

Inspect each winch for smooth operation, noting any sticking, roughness, or play around the fixed pawl and drum. Open the housing to check for corrosion, moisture, or salt intrusion. If something seems off, address it now or plan a refit before the next launches. For hydraulic or electrical systems, verify the lines, cables, and connectors are clean and secure, and ensure that all components are properly maintained.

Clean and lubricate sparingly: rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt spray, then dry completely. Use marine-grade grease on bearings and the drum shaft, and apply a thin film to winch gears to keep them from binding. Avoid solvent-heavy cleaners near seals and O-rings. This minimal maintenance can be done around the deck without specialist tools and keeps the hull and transom area protected. This is an ideal maintenance routine that keeps the hull and transom area protected. From salt spray to sun exposure, rinse and protect the exterior surfaces as well.

Line care: check all running rigging for chafe, glazing, or fraying. Replace worn segments and consider adding slightly heavier lines in high-load areas. Coil lines neatly in their suite and yards of line across the cockpit to prevent tangles and to speed up operations. Identify those lines that show wear and address them. For staysail or mainsheet rigs, ensure the lines feed cleanly around the winch and stay within the exterior spaces where they are easy to inspect. They should sit away from doors and deck hardware to avoid snagging.

Storage and handling: between regattas, protect lines from UV and heat by keeping them in a shaded, ventilated location. Store spare line in rooms or dedicated lockers around the deck to minimize handling. If you have a grande yacht or a Dufour model, ensure the exterior is dry before re-coiling lines. The transom area and deck doors should be kept clear and accessible for quick checks.

ft1in measurement note: when evaluating wear, use simple indicators and note increments like ft1in to track changes over time; then plan replacements as needed. This helps maintain a strong balance and keeps the system ready for the next race day.

In practice, this routine is practical for catamarans and monohulls alike, including flagship vessels, and it can be applied behind the scenes as part of your refit cycle. The result is an enjoyable, luxurious sailing experience that stays reliable after years of use, thanks to a disciplined approach to winch and line care that supports both performance and sustainability. The method works for different brands and hull configurations, from exterior decks to interior rooms, behind the transom and around the keel, and is a distinguished example of how to keep a high-end system in balance, with motte and elan behind the scenes.

Sails, Canvas, and Storage: Care Tips to Prolong Performance

Sails on yachts power every move, and careful handling along with regular checks keep them performing at their best over long operation cycles.

Regular inspection includes checking seams, patches, corners, and attachment points; evaluate reefing hardware and the sail’s shape, noting any offset or deformation that could reduce speed or steering response.

After sailing, rinse sails with fresh water to remove salt and spray; avoid harsh chemicals. If necessary, use a mild soap and rinse again, then dry fully in a shaded, well-ventilated area to prevent mildew before storage.

Storage should be dry, protected from heat, and well-ventilated. Use breathable bags or a square storage bin to protect them from moisture; where space allows, install an L-shaped rack that keeps sails flat and off the deck or floor. For boats where the area near the bathroom is common, locate storage away from living spaces and ensure good air flow to avoid odors and humidity. When stacking sails in a locker, place them under a breathable cover or tarp to limit sun exposure and dust.

Hardware care matters: inspect winches, blocks, and fittings for signs of wear; check lines for chafe and ensure they are offset from sharp corners near the foredeck and along the boom. A light brushing removes salt and dirt that can degrade fibers over time, and if a strong breeze is expected, handle lines slowly to avoid abrupt loads.

Materials vary by brand and model; some sails use carbon reinforcements or other high-performance fabrics. There's a strong emphasis on UV, heat, abrasion protection, and directional fabrics; avoid prolonged sun exposure when not in use. If you store them on board, cover or bag them to shield from UV rays and heat; this helps preserve color, shape, and strength.

These tips apply to any boat style–catamaran, ketch, or luxurious ownership yachts–and to various lengths such as 42ft or 49ft. Built to perform, sails on smaller vessels still require the same care; located near the foredeck, there is plenty of space in a dedicated maintenance area. Look outside during inspection to observe wind and weather conditions before handling sails, and consult yachting magazines for the latest views and methods from brands like vismara and fortescue.

On-board routines help maximize durability: inspect sails after every passage, test the reefing lines and winches, and plan pre-race checks with a crew. Look outside at wind direction and breeze; ensure there is plenty of room on foredeck to move without snagging sheets. Having a clear, easy access area improves maintenance and the sense of ownership over your yachts and their equipment. There are plenty of storage options that suit different layouts and budgets.

Additionally, you can protect the system’s operation by using lithium batteries for electrical needs and ensuring proper electrical isolation near the sail-handling areas. Theres always a balance between performance and care: keep areas under and around hoists tidy, look for wear, and address issues before they escalate. Thanks to simple routines that start when you plan the season, you can extend the life of your sails, hardware, and on-board gear for many years.

Navigation and Race Strategy: Apps, Charts, and Waypoint Planning

Effective navigation and race strategy rely on a blend of real-time apps, high-resolution charts, and disciplined waypoint planning. In yachting, teams on every sailboats program use monthly data, a test voyage, and rehearsals to validate routes and respond to shifts. On board a beneteau flagship or a high-performance carbon model, deck discipline, helmstation control, and an efficient L-shaped quarters layout influence every decision from start to finish, while a robust door and headroom keep the crew operating at peak efficiency.

Apps provide wind forecasts, routing advice, and tide predictions. Overlay forecasts on official nautical charts to build risk-adjusted routes. Store configurations in a go-anywhere dashboard accessible on-board and ashore. Some teams run a strict test of forecast models, compare results, and track awards from regattas for proven routes, adjusting strategy in real time as conditions shift. In practice, this data-driven approach supports prudent money management during gear sale cycles, and ensures every decision is anchored in evidence. Launches of new chart bundles and hardware updates are scheduled in the monthly cycle to keep data current.

Charts and waypoint planning should start with the start line, then a chain of waypoints that reflect the boat's characteristics. Create route ladders that keep favorable wind angles and avoid tactical traps near shore. The choice of waypoints considers keel offset, stability, and helmstation handling; for a stiff, high-stability platform, you can sail flatter and push sails earlier. For carbon hulls, you can go faster but must manage weight distribution. For go-anywhere models like odyssey or vismara, planning should include offshore risk margins and spare-waypoints for repairs or refits that may be required in operation. The deck layout and boat design, from the bathroom to the dining area, must not destabilize crew performance. Each mark or layline should be validated against current chart data and tested with simulated wind shifts to ensure that the plan remains robust under varying conditions.

Vessel specifics drive final route decisions. A distinguished flagship with high-performance specifications, such as a beneteau or other sailboats, requires precise hull data, including keel offset, ballast distribution, and hull stiffness. The shipyard know-how ensures this board distributes weight to maintain trim, while carbon components and flush deck fittings reduce drag and improve speed. During refit on-board, crews review the layout, rework the helmstation for better visibility, and optimize forward and aft quarters so the team remains comfortable during long legs. These refinements contribute to stability, reduce weight, and preserve headroom in crowded deck spaces, enabling faster accelerations without compromising safety.

Operational discipline establishes the rhythm of race prep. In maestro-led crews, on-board routines assign watches, door access control, and meal planning–dining areas must support endurance during long races while the bathroom and headroom keep crew morale high. The team coordinates with ownership and the shipyard for regular maintenance, refits, and up-to-date specifications. Keeping totalling gear and spares aligned with the budget ensures that money is spent wisely without compromising safety or performance. These choices reflect a culture that blends performance with comfort, a balance that distinguishes the odyssey of yachting as a pursuit of both speed and longevity.

Practical workflow for navigation and race strategy includes a pre-sail test of apps and charts, waypoint setup, laylines, and emergency procedures rehearsal. Before launch, the team reviews wind and tide forecasts, confirms the chart overlays, and verifies on-board equipment readiness. The maestro and odyssey design lines are treated as benchmarks for performance and safety, guiding decisions about which board to use, keel offset, and helmstation handling. During the race, waypoint status, distance to marks, and layline viability are monitored in real time, while the course is logged for monthly totalling of performance data and for potential awards submissions that recognize yachting excellence.