Did anyone mention to andy that the sail system is not called "self furling". Rather, it's "roller furling" or "roller reefing".... Andy, I highly recommend that you practice all these tasks while tied to the dock, preferably pointing up wind.... (or down wind if you want to practice setting and dousing a spinnaker.) That way any mistakes or equipment malfunctions can be addressed in non critical conditions. Keep your sailing handbook nearby for reference. Make sure your headsails are equipped with three pairs of tell tales to help you trim and steer . Also make sure your mainsail has three single tell tales attached to its back edge(leech). When you purchase the inexpensive tell tales there will be instructions on how to install and use them when sailing.
My boat is docked facing the prevailing breeze, so 90% of the time I will hoist the main before leaving, one less thing to do... if the motor dies..I still have sail power. If you're docked facing downwind, it might not work, unless you flip the boat around. If you're on a mooring... you'll always be facing upwind.
My boat is docked facing the prevailing breeze, so 90% of the time I will hoist the main before leaving, one less thing to do... if the motor dies..I still have sail power. If you're docked facing downwind, it might not work, unless you flip the boat around. If you're on a mooring... you'll always be facing upwind.