Have you confirmed whether, for that model (the B331), reefing
comparatively early, even if not in any way necessary, substantially
increases speed and sailing peformance in related respects? If and to
the extent so, in what configurations in what conditions?

Our Kirie Elite 32 is built along the same lines as a First (better
interior, though), and acts that way. If the wind is blowing between 12-15,
one reef significantly increases speed over flying the main all out...at 18,
we double reef and get the same effect....
--
katysails
s/v Chanteuse
Kirie Elite 32
http://katysails.tripod.com

"Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax
and get used to the idea." - Robert A. Heinlein