Safe mast storage

Sam Longley battens down the mast fittings

When I walk around the marina there are always several boats that, for various reasons, have had their masts lowered. But it never ceases to amaze me how many owners leave their furling headsail foils just hanging down from the supports onto the ground. It is obviously due to the weight of the furling mechanism, but each year there is always at least one with a small kink come launching time.

My solution is quite simple. I take a batten and insert it up the inside of the mast about 3ft (1m) making sure not to nip any wires, then just tie a cord or use some tape to support the foil on it.

Likewise, at the top of the mast the VHF aerial is just perfectly positioned to spike a passing pedestrian and end up getting bent. If, like mine, it’s a hassle to remove, a batten can be taped to the masthead to support and protect the fitting.

At the masthead, fix a batten to guard against damage to the aerial and wind indicator

Prevent the furling headsail foil from getting bent out of shape over winter using a simple batten to support it at the foot of the mast