Diagram 3 of 5 · Long-Distance Passages

Heavy Weather Sail Plan

Progressive reefing stages from full sail to storm configuration — matching sail area to wind strength for safety and control offshore.

Wind Direction
True wind from north — boat close-hauled on starboard tack
Stage 1
Full Sail
0 – 15 knots TWS
100% SAIL
  • Full main + genoa
  • Light-air efficiency
  • Maximum VMG upwind
  • Monitor wind trend
Stage 2
First Reef
15 – 25 knots TWS
R1 ~75% SAIL
  • Reef main, change jib
  • Ease heel, reduce load
  • Tie reef points firmly
  • Reef early offshore
Stage 3
Second Reef
25 – 35 knots TWS
R2 ~50% SAIL
  • Double reef + storm jib
  • Watch for gusts >40kn
  • Prepare storm sails
  • Adjust course if needed
Stage 4
Storm Sail
35+ knots TWS
~20% SAIL TRYSAIL
  • Trysail + storm jib
  • Or hove-to, lying ahull
  • All crew on tethers
  • Consider running off
Full Sail
0–15 kn
→
1st Reef
15–25 kn
→
2nd Reef
25–35 kn
→
Storm Sail
35+ kn
Key Principles
Reef early — never wait until overpowered
Mainsail (sky blue) and jib/genoa (green) shown
Reef point line marks each reef slab
Storm sail / trysail — dedicated heavy-air sails
TWS = True Wind Speed at 10m height
Dashed lines = standing rigging (stays, shrouds)