spinnaker

Terry Cox · Apr 30, 2016

Hi Fred, try this link to a video that covers much of what you need to know.

WayneH · Apr 30, 2016

And if you're shorthanded, think about this.

This shows an asym spinnaker but I use one on my sym. You can't point DDW but it is so much easier than fighting a pole by yourself on the foredeck.

Jackdaw · May 1, 2016

Well if you have the sail and IF your boat is rigged for it, you are 80% there!

You will need spin sheet, a spin halyard, a topping lift and a down haul as running rigging. Like this.

Flying the sail is kind easy but there is a lot going on at once. Having someone on board who knows how is a huge help. I would pick a day with 6-7 knots of steady breeze. That will fill the sail but not overpower it. On your boat you would be able to pull it down at any time, and it would never endanger you the sail or the rig.

Those vids are not great. A friend of mine made a good one for forespar.. I'll see if I can dig up Nick's video on YouTube...

Jackdaw · May 1, 2016

Here you go. Funny they call him 'john' but this is Nick Hayes from 'Saving Sailing' fame.

Cowpokee · May 1, 2016

fred1diver, post: I've never used a spin yet, so I'm a bit worried about using one, can you give me some pointers on using one thank in advance

My best advice is to try it in light winds first to get used to handling the sail as in what effects different adjustments cause.
Here is my first attempt at flying an assymmetrical. I just tied one end to the bowsprit instead of using the pole for simplicity.
I already learned that in light winds, the sail doesn't exert enough force on the sheets to jibe without unwrapping the winch first.

?v=LeYSl4trouc

alexco38 · May 2, 2016

You'll love it. Going down wind faster than the apparent wind speed is kind-a-cool. It took a little while to get the hang of it. But once you do, you'll never go back.

Why not try to crew in a club racing first to learn it.

I do spinnaker single / double handed but with a sock and auto-pilot. It's fun.

Jackdaw · May 2, 2016

That diagram is meant to show two different methods. One is separate sheets and guys. The other is a single set of lines that functions as both. On boats less than 35 feet you usually use a single set.

But then is is a great idea (extra credit) to use a twings to pull the guy side forward to help the angle.

Kermit · May 2, 2016

Jackdaw said:
But then is is a great idea (extra credit) to use a twing to pull the guy side forward to help the angle.

Do you use your twing when twick-or-tweeting?