REEFING


The size of the mainsail may be reduced by lowering it partially and securing it in that position using the lines and fittings supplied for that purpose. This process is most easily accomplished while sailing on a close reach under jib only with the mainsail luffing or when heaving-to.


l Time - If you think about reefing, do it. l Sequence - Tack, head, clew. l Proper Tension - Luff first then foot.


l Sail Ties - Attach sail ties under the foot of the sail, not around the boom if possible.


l Reverse - Perform the steps in the opposite order to shake out a reef.


Reef Cringle


1 Loosen the mainsheet and boom vang to unload the forces off the sail.


2 Lower the main halyard until your desired reefing cringle (grommet) is near the point where the mast and boom meet. Secure the new tack, usually by placing it in the hook at the gooseneck.


3 Raise the main halyard and winch it up until it is taut.


4 Tighten the reef line until the new foot of the mainsail is tight along the boom.


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5 Pull the excess sail out on the windward side of the boom. Roll it up. Secure it with sail ties that go around just the sail and not the boom, if possible. If you must pass the sail ties around the boom, they should be tied loosely. However, the sail tie used to secure the sail at the clew should go around the boom. It will then act as a safety line should your reef line break. Make sure not to capture any of the mainsheet in the sail ties.


6 Tighten the boom vang and sheet in the mainsail. 7 Reverse the order to shake out (remove) the reef.


Table of Contents 76


SKILL EVALUATION


Chapter 6 | Mastering the Wind: Advanced Sailing Skills


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