Taking a spinnaker down without the aid of the snuffer or furler is a challenging manoeuvre for two people to manage. This will be your biggest sail; it is slippery to grab hold of and the sheer volume of the spinnaker makes it powerful and unruly. But, like all our double-handed manoeuvres, with good planning and technique this sail can be tamed. If learning as a double-handed crew, practise your technique in lighter winds, to establish who does what, and where to be positioned.
Every time you hoist the spinnaker, make sure you’re ready to drop at any time, especially if doing single person watches. Talk through the manoeuvre ahead of time, agree roles, communication and process so if you need to make a quick drop you’re confident it will go well.
PREPARATION
For double-handed teams, a stress free drop can turn into a nightmare with a rope snag. If a rope catches, even for a couple of seconds, it can lead to the spinnaker refilling and flying back out of the boat with loads too heavy to overcome. All lines associated with the drop: halyard, pole out, tackline and lazy sheet
