Picture this: The helmsman has completed tacking the boat. The main trimmer has tacked the main. The headsail hand has trimmed on the sail for the new course.
What should happen next, i.e. before the crew settle into position for the new leg?
If you’re responsible for the headsail, your next job is to reload the windward winch, ready for a tack. Even if you expect to be on the same tack for half an hour or more, you still should put at least one turn round the windward winch – and make sure it’s the right way round by spinning the winch as you do it. Don’t pull it on too hard or it will affect the shape of the headsail.
Cruising or racing, the helmsman needs to know that he can tack the boat almost at the same time as calling “Ready about”.
What with commercial shipping and ferries, to say nothing of sailing vessels of all shapes, sizes and speeds, everyone on board needs to be ready to tack to avoid a collision.
Tags: ready to tack, tacking