Last summer I often left my sail and board sitting out in the sun while wind was down, going for a swim or hanging on the beach. I realise in hindsight this was pretty stupid but I really don't want to derig my sail everytime I take a break. I was thinking of buying some kind of UV protection cloth to sit over it, like they use on the grapevines when the sun is too strong to protect the grapes. Anyone have any idea where I could buy some cheap cloth like this that will do the job?

I realise this is unrealistic in really strong winds but often in the summer afternoon seabreeze the wind is offshore at my local beach and with the cliffs behind you don't actually feel the wind until you get a little further out. So often 5knots on the beach and 25knots 50metres out.

Thanks.

I have a 5m x 5m tarp from Bunnings (cheap), that is big enough to cover my formula gear (which are the worst offenders due to mast breakages); combine with a couple of pegs so that it stays put. Folds up quite neatly.

You can even store a few guys' gear under it -> just slip the sails together between the booms. Be aware that anything sitting on your sails, will rub on them in strong wind (HTFU and go sailing).

As a bonus it doubles as a ground cover for those times when you want to wash your sail (get a $5 collapsable bucket), or as shade for yourself (2x collapsable tent poles).

The only real hassle is what to do with it between runs.

Excellent info Matthew. Yeah it is actually for my Formula gear which I often keep in my boatshed. I might head down bunnings sometimes for a looky. Danger with that place is I always find things I don't need.

Thanks again.