How to Reef a Sail
Reef while you are still docked for best control., Stay attuned to signs that reefing may be needed while underway.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Reef while you are still docked for best control.
If there’s any hint of stormy weather, shorten the mainsail before you set out.
It’s easier to unreef, or let the mainsail out, if the weather threat recedes than it is to reef while sailing in the midst of high winds. -
Step 2: Stay attuned to signs that reefing may be needed while underway.
Watch wind speeds.
Reef when gusts become frequent or wind speeds increase by more than 5 knots.
Be sensitive to shifts in barometric pressure, changing cloud patterns and other weather signals.
Reef deeply.
Shorten the sail as much as possible the first time.
Again, it’s easier to let it out than it is to reef twice.
Detailed Guide
If there’s any hint of stormy weather, shorten the mainsail before you set out.
It’s easier to unreef, or let the mainsail out, if the weather threat recedes than it is to reef while sailing in the midst of high winds.
Watch wind speeds.
Reef when gusts become frequent or wind speeds increase by more than 5 knots.
Be sensitive to shifts in barometric pressure, changing cloud patterns and other weather signals.
Reef deeply.
Shorten the sail as much as possible the first time.
Again, it’s easier to let it out than it is to reef twice.
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Joshua Vasquez
Brings years of experience writing about lifestyle and related subjects.
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