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mainsailreefing

The ALS reefing system

mainsailreefing

mainsailreefing

Reefing options for the tack
	The tack hook is simple and ideal for anyone not wishing to add any fittings to the mast. It simply replaces the normal tack pin.
		Side entry cleats fitted to the mast enable quick and easy reefing and pulls the sail in close to the mast.

Reefing options for the clew

The process of reefing the mainsail is made a lot easier by adding double reefing blocks fitted to a standard boom slide. Reefing can then be carried out from either side of the boom with the lines led forward to cleats on each side.

mainsailreefing

mainsailreefing

mainsailreefing

Other options

Other methods include blocks fixed to the side of the boom or through deck sheaves set into the top of the boom. The advantage of either of these systems is the ability to run the lines internally. The positioning of the sheaves/blocks is important to allow the correct amount of both downward and backwards pull on the reefed sail. Some degree of adjustment is still achieved by the fixed end of the line being made off to a boom slide. Lines and sail are then tidied by using an ALS boom tidy bag and reefing ties (available in either singles or double sided).

Video of Matt Sharman demonstrating the mainsail reefing process
– taking less than 2 minutes.

Illustrated in the photo below is a Wayfarer sailing comfortably with 2 reefs in the mainsail and a reefed genoa, on a cold February day in the F5 wind conditions. The clearly visible sailhead buoyancy bag is fully inflated, which would prevent the boat from inverting – even with 2 reefs in the mainsail.
The distinctive red panel in the sail - making the boat more visible as a safety factor, (as seen by the photo of the Wayfarer in the background) - is an optional feature with new McNamara sails.
Ansis Rozkalns and Brian Alexander sailing W8823 on a UKWA organised event at Brancaster, Norfolk.