How to Hoist the Headsail on a Sailboat

Before taking out a sailboat, you must first learn how to rig your craft. Follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sailboat
• Practice

1. Attach the headsail to the lines, and begin feeding the sail through the port or starboard groove (whichever you prefer).

2. Hoist the sail with the line while making sure it feeds smoothly through the groove. If there is a problem with the feed, see where it might be snarled or jammed rather than just pulling harder on the line.

3. Fasten the sail in place and finish your preparations to get underway. Once it is rigged, you may want to lower the sail and hoist it again as soon as you are ready to cast off.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when moving about the bow; it can be slippery.
• Do not drag the sail along the ground or otherwise abuse it. A ripped sail can be costly to repair.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!