The Offshore Voyaging Reference Site

Asymmetric Spinnaker Sheet Length

As I mentioned in an earlier Tip, we just bought new spinnaker sheets at not inconsiderable expense. Here’s why.


Login to continue reading (scroll down)

6 Comments
Oldest
Newest
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Christian Pihlgren

My previous boat, a Luffe 40.04, had a line from the clue that was permanently attached. This line was about 3 meters of so and ended with a loop where we could attach the sheet with a snap shackle. We used to sail with only one sheet attached on the lee side. When gybing, the mentioned loop was close enough to reach so that we could attach the new sheet and let the working sheet go (using the snap shackle). I found this a good method. Perhaps the shackle can be dangerous if whipping around, but we never had that problem (mostly sailing in calm waters).

Cheers and thanks for a great forum.

Christian Pihlgren

Hi John,
I think there are pros and cons. It makes it simpler and faster to manage only one sheet instead of two (I’m always a bit concerned one could go under the boat). On the downside you’ll have to go up on deck to release the snap shackle. We use it sailing two handed. Perhaps not such a good idea for single handed.

THOMAS KAINE

What diameter and material are the sheets?