How to De-rig a Windsurf Board

Rescue yourself from any situation out on the water by sitting on your board, packing your equipment and paddling to safety.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Life Vests
• Wet Suits
• Windsurf Boards
• Windsurf Rigs

1. Determine that the only way you're going to get back to shore is to pack it up and paddle in. Once you decide this, don't hesitate or go back on your decision.

2. Sit astride the center of your board. This is the most stable position to work from.

3. Unplug the mast foot.

4. Work your way along the sail, removing any battens and placing them in the luff tube.

5. Release the downhaul line.

6. Untie the outhaul and toss the clew toward the mast.

7. Roll the sail tightly toward the mast. Secure the roll at the top with the outhaul line and at the bottom with the uphaul line.

8. Lay the folded rig on the board with the mast foot pointing toward the nose of the board.

9. Lie down on the mast and paddle to safety.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also be towed to safety by another windsurfer. Do this only if the other windsurfer is skilled enough to accommodate you.
• Always wear a life vest when windsurfing.
• If you are injured and unable to de-rig your own board, raise one arm up into the air in a distress signal and wait for someone to come to your aid.
• Windsurfing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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