Running Rigging

Some cruising sailors don’t take advantage of all the tools available to them to sail their boats most effectively. Two of these tools are the traveller and the boom vang. To get your boat to point well (sail closest to the wind) generally you want your boom on the center line of your boat. This usually requires bringing the traveller to windward. If you feel overpowered as the wind increases, drop the traveller down until you feel under control. The difference of 5 to 10 degrees of pointing ability on a long course can shave hours off your ETA. This is true for your mizzen as well if you are sailing a yawl or ketch.

Likewise, the boom vang is often an underutilized tool going downwind. Without some boom vang tension, especially in a stronger breeze, the end of your boom tends to pivot upwards, reducing sail efficiency and increases a side by side (yawing) effect. Without boom vang tension, it is also more difficult to perform a smooth and controlled jibe.

In light air with leftover swells, some boom vang tension helps eliminate that annoying sound of your mainsheet snapping on the roll. Just remember to ease your boom vang before trying to lower your main halyard.

Get to know the purpose of all of your running rigging, and if you need help, give me a shout.