Changing headsails

[David Morton]

Recently I went to take down my 130 genoa off my furler to replace it with my yankee jib. I've done this a few times on Danusia and it is never easy, especially single-handed. This time was particularly irksome since this genoa was new and stiff. I waited for a light air day, and at the mooring, tried pulling the foot down along the deck between the cabin top and lifelines, dropping the halyard slowly and trying to flake as it came down. I did manage to get the thing in the bag, but it was a struggle and so sad to see my new genoa crumbled up in an ugly mess that can't be good for the sail. Surely there must be a better way!! Any ideas?

David

[Jim Walsh]

That's about all you can do, Dave. Flaking it along the side deck is about as good as it gets. The first opportunity you have to bring the bagged sail ashore to spread it out properly will result in a sail which takes up half the space.
I always have a spare headsail but I try to anticipate which will be best for the journey I'm currently on. Mainly so I don't have to deal with the same issue.