Reefing

[Ken Juul]

Even us experienced folks can learn new tricks.  I reefed for the first time this weekend.  Normally when the wind picks up it is always on the nose, rather than tack, we normally just put the sails away and motor.  Had some guests that really wanted to sail, so I thought I'd give it a try.  I have a single reef line through the clew.  Pulled the sail up to the just below the first reef, inserted the tack cringle into the hook, pulled the clew tight with the small winch on the boom, finished raising the main and off we went.  Had a great sail in 18-25 apparent   It was much easier to accomplish than I would have thought.  So those of you that haven't tried yet, don't be afraid, give it a try at your first opportunity

[Ken Heyman]

I use the same straight forward reefing system. In that we're on a mooring can, and I generally raise the main before departing, it's easy to put the reef in before casting off. If winds lessen (or don't develop as forecast) it's simple to shake the reef out while under sail. That said, somewhere along the line I'll likely install a "jiffy" system as it is easier (and safer in that I don't need to climb up on deck ) than inserting or removing the reefing hook through the tack cringle while under way.

Ken