RIGGING THE SAILS Think of rigging the sails as getting your boat dressed to go sailing. Start by re- moving the cover on the mainsail and preparing the lines you’ll need to hoist and control the sail. Depending on the wind strength, you’ll also make a selection for the proper jib. Use your larger jib for lighter winds and a smaller one for medium and heavy winds.
Undo the ties and/or clips that hold the mainsail cover snugly to the boom and mast. Fold or roll the cover up neatly and stow it in a cockpit locker or in the cabin.
Check that the battens are in the mainsail, the reefing lines are ad- justed or cleared, and the outhaul is tensioned.
Te main halyard is fastened to the head of the sail in a special rein- forced hole. Make sure the halyard shackle is closed securely so the mainsail won’t fall down once it’s raised.
