Sail Repair Question

Hello all,

While sailing with a reefed mainsail for the first time this summer, I made the ridiculous mistake of forgetting to utilize the last (and strongest) grommet at the end of the main sail on my Hobie 16 . Consequently, I now have a nice 18 inch tear parallel with the boom and directly inline with the second to last grommet (which apparently wasn't strong enough to take the tension load of the mainsheet in a sturdy wind.

My question is this: Can I get the sail professionally repaired or will someone just suggest that I throw some tape on it until it comes off again? I'm wishing to sell the boat (an '83 in otherwise beautiful shape) and would like to pass along some confidence that the new owner will never have issues with the sail. Can I expect a professional repair to be nearly as good as new as far as durability goes? Thanks in advance for your time!

-Mark

Don't use tape! This wil not foster confidence in the buyer. Go for the professional repair. You will be able to get more for your boat if your sails are professionally cared for.

_________________
Nick

Current Boat
In the market
Previous boats owned
'74 Pearson 30
'84 H16
'82 H18 Magnum
St. Louis, MO

Any advice on who to have repair the sail? Just any old tailor or should it be someone who specializes in sail repair? Thanks!
-Mark

Use a person who has experience in repairing sails. It requires somewhat specialized equipment and materials.

A repair of what you describe is not too difficult and shouldn't cost that much. Many shops will accept sails shipped to them for repair.