How to Use a Jib When Tacking

All sports have a unique language to explain scoring, tactics and player positions. Many of these terms date back centuries. Sailing, now a sport and recreational activity, is mired in tradition with the names of sails, boat parts and maneuvers recalling the historic days when sailing vessels ruled the oceans. Moving a sailboat under sail requires the ability to read the wind and manage the jib sail to reach your destination.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 sheets
  • Jib sail
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Instructions

    • 1

      Hoist the jib. The jib, also referred to as the headsail, is raised in front of the mast and is attached to the bow. The use of a second sail increases sail area and allows the boat to move faster. To raise the jib, head into the wind and pull the sail out with the sheet, the line attached to the bottom of the sail, on the leeward side of the boat. The wind will be coming across the bow and filling the sail. This becomes the working jib sheet. Once the sail is out and the sheet is secured on the wench, secure all the lines and set a course.

    • 2

      Tack a sailboat by turning the bow through the wind. The maneuver allows the boat to move forward in the intended direction by changing the jib from one side of the boat to the other. The helmsman will call out "ready about" to prepare the crew to get ready to tack and change the position of the jib.

    • 3

      Loosen the sheets. One crew member takes the lazy sheet off the wench. The lazy sheet is on the windward side of the boat and it not active. The crew member holds the lazy sheet, ready for the next command. Make sure the sheet is not tangled or twisted and is ready to be placed on the wench and secured after the boat is turned and the sail comes over. Another crew member mans the working sheet.

    • 4

      Release the working sheet. The helmsman says "helms alee" and turns the boat into the wind. A crew member takes the working sheet off the wench but maintains tension until the wind grabs the sail and it begins to move it to the opposite side of the bow.

    • 5

      Trim the sail. The boat turns through the wind, changing direction. A crew member tightens the former lazy sheet and brings the jib to the new leeward side of the boat, tightens the sheet around the wench and secures it. As the boat settles, trim the sail by letting it out or pulling it tighter to obtain optimal use of the sail with the current wind speed and direction.