The Storm Jib and Storm Trysail Techniques

Sailing the open seas with your family is an incredible experience, but it’s essential to be prepared for all types of weather, including storms. In this article, we’ll discuss two essential storm tactics and preparation techniques: the storm jib and storm trysail. These techniques will help you navigate through rough weather and ensure the safety of your family and your boat.

Table of Contents

• Understanding Storm Sails
• The Storm Jib
  • Selecting the Right Storm Jib
  • Setting Up the Storm Jib
  • Using the Storm Jib
• The Storm Trysail
  • Selecting the Right Storm Trysail
  • Setting Up the Storm Trysail
  • Using the Storm Trysail
• Storm Tactics and Preparation Tips
• Conclusion

Understanding Storm Sails

Before we dive into the specifics of the storm jib and storm trysail, it’s essential to understand the purpose of storm sails. Storm sails are smaller, heavy-duty sails designed to replace your regular sails during heavy weather. They are built to withstand strong winds and rough seas, allowing you to maintain control of your boat and minimize the risk of damage.

There are two primary types of storm sails: the storm jib and the storm trysail. The storm jib is a small, triangular sail that replaces your boat’s regular jib or genoa. The storm trysail is a small, triangular sail that replaces your boat’s mainsail. Both sails are designed to work together to provide stability and control during a storm.

The Storm Jib

The storm jib is an essential piece of equipment for any sailor venturing into open waters. It is a small, heavy-duty sail that replaces your boat’s regular jib or genoa during heavy weather. The storm jib is designed to withstand strong winds and rough seas, allowing you to maintain control of your boat and minimize the risk of damage.

Selecting the Right Storm Jib

When choosing a storm jib for your boat, there are several factors to consider:

1. Size: The storm jib should be significantly smaller than your boat’s regular jib or genoa. A general rule of thumb is that the storm jib’s area should be about 25% of your boat’s working jib. This smaller size allows the sail to handle strong winds without overpowering your boat.

2. Material: Storm jibs should be made from heavy-duty, durable materials that can withstand the harsh conditions of a storm. Look for sails made from high-quality Dacron or similar materials, with a weight of at least 9-10 ounces per square yard.

3. Construction: The storm jib should be built to withstand the rigors of heavy weather. Look for features such as triple-stitched seams, reinforced corners, and heavy-duty sailcloth.

4. Attachment Points: Ensure that the storm jib has strong attachment points for halyards, sheets, and tack. These points should be reinforced to handle the increased loads during a storm.

Setting Up the Storm Jib

Before a storm hits, it’s essential to set up your storm jib correctly. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Remove the Regular Jib: Before you can set up the storm jib, you’ll need to remove your boat’s regular jib or genoa. This can be done by furling the sail or lowering it to the deck and securing it.

2. Attach the Storm Jib: Attach the storm jib to your boat’s forestay using the halyard, sheets, and tack. Ensure that the sail is securely fastened and that all lines are properly tensioned.

3. Adjust the Sail: Once the storm jib is in place, adjust the sail’s shape using the sheets and halyard. The sail should be relatively flat, with minimal draft, to handle the strong winds of a storm.

Using the Storm Jib

When sailing in heavy weather, the storm jib provides several benefits:

1. Reduced Heeling: The smaller size of the storm jib reduces the amount of force exerted on your boat, minimizing heeling and making the boat more stable.

2. Improved Balance: The storm jib helps balance your boat by providing forward drive, which works in conjunction with the storm trysail to maintain control in rough seas.

3. Easier Handling: The storm jib is easier to handle than a full-sized jib or genoa, making it simpler to adjust and trim during a storm.

The Storm Trysail

The storm trysail is another essential piece of equipment for sailors venturing into open waters. It is a small, heavy-duty sail that replaces your boat’s mainsail during heavy weather. Like the storm jib, the storm trysail is designed to withstand strong winds and rough seas, allowing you to maintain control of your boat and minimize the risk of damage.

Selecting the Right Storm Trysail

When choosing a storm trysail for your boat, consider the following factors:

1. Size: The storm trysail should be significantly smaller than your boat’s regular mainsail. A general rule of thumb is that the storm trysail’s area should be about 15% of your boat’s working mainsail. This smaller size allows the sail to handle strong winds without overpowering your boat.

2. Material: Like the storm jib, the storm trysail should be made from heavy-duty, durable materials that can withstand the harsh conditions of a storm. Look for sails made from high-quality Dacron or similar materials, with a weight of at least 9-10 ounces per square yard.

3. Construction: The storm trysail should be built to withstand the rigors of heavy weather. Look for features such as triple-stitched seams, reinforced corners, and heavy-duty sailcloth.

4. Attachment Points: Ensure that the storm trysail has strong attachment points for halyards, sheets, and tack. These points should be reinforced to handle the increased loads during a storm.

Setting Up the Storm Trysail

Before a storm hits, it’s essential to set up your storm trysail correctly. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Remove the Mainsail: Before you can set up the storm trysail, you’ll need to remove your boat’s regular mainsail. This can be done by lowering the sail to the deck and securing it.

2. Attach the Storm Trysail: Attach the storm trysail to your boat’s mast and boom using the halyard, sheets, and tack. Ensure that the sail is securely fastened and that all lines are properly tensioned.

3. Adjust the Sail: Once the storm trysail is in place, adjust the sail’s shape using the sheets and halyard. The sail should be relatively flat, with minimal draft, to handle the strong winds of a storm.

Using the Storm Trysail

When sailing in heavy weather, the storm trysail provides several benefits:

1. Reduced Heeling: The smaller size of the storm trysail reduces the amount of force exerted on your boat, minimizing heeling and making the boat more stable.

2. Improved Balance: The storm trysail helps balance your boat by providing aft drive, which works in conjunction with the storm jib to maintain control in rough seas.

3. Easier Handling: The storm trysail is easier to handle than a full-sized mainsail, making it simpler to adjust and trim during a storm.

Storm Tactics and Preparation Tips

In addition to using the storm jib and storm trysail, there are several other tactics and preparation tips to help you navigate through a storm:

1. Monitor the Weather: Keep a close eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to adjust your plans if a storm is approaching.

2. Practice Sail Changes: Practice setting up and using your storm sails in calm conditions, so you’re familiar with the process when a storm hits.

3. Secure Loose Items: Ensure that all loose items on your boat are securely stowed or tied down to prevent damage during a storm.

4. Reef Early: If you’re caught in a storm without storm sails, reef your regular sails early to reduce their size and minimize the risk of damage.

5. Heave-to or Deploy a Sea Anchor: In extreme conditions, consider heaving-to or deploying a sea anchor to slow your boat’s progress and maintain control.

Conclusion

The storm jib and storm trysail are essential tools for any sailor venturing into open waters. By selecting the right sails, setting them up correctly, and using them effectively, you can navigate through heavy weather and ensure the safety of your family and your boat. Additionally, by practicing good storm tactics and preparation, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever Mother Nature throws your way.