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Step 1
Bring the boat to a broad reach. Unless you're sailing dead downwind, you should bring the boat to a broad reach. This will enable you to prepare and then safely and quickly perform the jibe.
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Step 2
Pick a spot for the job. Choosing an approximate mark for the jibe helps you benchmark the tasks that need to be done throughout the jibe process. Also, in heavier winds, you can use a mark to coordinate a reduction in apparent wind in order to lessen the load on the sails and, therefore, on the rudder to make the turn easier for the helmsman.
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Step 3
Alert the crew and passengers. Make sure all of the crew knows that you're about to jibe the sailboat. Anyone onboard needs to makes sure that their heads are clear of the boom. Give the crew and passengers an approximate amount of time until the jibe and assign crew members tasks.
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Step 4
Fall off and jibe. As you start to fall off, set the jib to the opposite tack so that you're flying wing-on-wing. This will help you keep power as the mainsail changes tack. Then center the mainsail. Once you're ready to complete the jibe call out "Jibe ho!" to alert all onboard and then fall off until the stern crosses the wind and the mainsail swings over to the other tack.
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Step 5
Trim the sails. After you've moved through the jibe you should ease the mainsail and trim the jib to its appropriate position. Set your course and carry on sailing.
