A few weeeks ago there was a discussion about sailmakers and service, etc, especially in the Long Island Sound area. There was an interesting move recently with Steve Benjamin moving from Banks Sails to North Sails. It is explained in a press release in the above link and at www.northsails.com.
Many of us in the C&C Sailing Asssociation have had very positive experience with Steve and we would reccomend others using him for racing or cruising needs. He also has been very supportive of our C&C Club, and knows the C&C line especially well. North sails speaks for themselves. With sailmakers it is often the individual and service that is the real diffference.
(Can you get them on your boat, timely delivery, etc.)
(I have no affiliation with North Sails)
Rgds, Cliff Moondance 35 MKIII

While we're on the subject of sailmakers, does anyone have any recommendations for a good sailmakers in Sydney BC? I'm in Roche Harbor and recently had a new sacrificial put on my headsail. The local fella didn't finish the job (no chafe patches) and I'm not altogether thrilled with the sewing. I would like someone who would actually come down to the boat, scope out the work and then do a quality job.
Thanks in advance
Greg DV8 34+ Roche Harbor

Greg
I used Leitch and McBride last winter to full-batten my main on my 24 and do some other miner repairs. Was pleased with the service and the results. He was recommended to me by a local.
Rick McBride is the manager
Phone 250-656-0751 Fax250-656-3648 e-mail - lmsails@pacificcoast.net
Ross MacLennan, Saskatchewan C&C 24, Tobermory.

Heard that a Connecticut Judge recently awarded Sobstad a large "damages" payment from North Sails stemming from the patent infringement suit file by Sobstad years ago. Do not know the details, but doubt it will "materially" impact North, other than causing sail prices to rise

Hi Greg
I have heard good things about Leitch & McBride, also; they just did a new main for the Ranger 29 next to me and it looked nice once they took off the extra roach they (L&M) insisted on...kept getting hung up on the backstay. The owner had no quibble at all with the service. I have dealt with the local Hood loft, way back when, and wasn't very impressed. The local UK loft has good reviews also, but no personal experience. I am assuming you would bring the boat over to Sidney for the work...?
Jim Watts - Paradigm - C&C 29 Mk II - Victoria, BC

Hi Greg,
Years ago ('91), I had North in Richmond, BC do some work for me. New luff tape on the genoa, 4 full battens on the main, Harken foil and cover for the mainsail. I dealt with Jason, who came to North Van to measure what needed it, check out what I needed and answer my dumb questions. As a bonus, their pricing was the best I could find too.
Jon Tebbens - '78 Mega