SKIPPERS’ TIPS
Traffic light reefing • AIS to check VHF range • Unsafe safety
I deliberately chose a boat with all lines leading to the cockpit. This means there’s a fair few lines knocking about when it gets busy in the cockpit and colour identification is important. It can be daunting for friends who visit, who maybe aren’t sailors but still want to go sailing to get their heads around all the colourful lines.
Four of the most important ones are the reef lines. Boogie Nights is equipped with three reefs in the main, the first two are single line reefs and the third is twin line. The reefs follow a simple traffic light system. Red, amber, green. The most dangerous reef to put in is the first, therefore red. This is because of the high risk of loose lines flying around while the sail area is being reduced, but with the power potential of a fully powered up sail and boom.
The second reef is easier but still moderately dangerous. By the time we get to the third reef, it’s fast and easy with far fewer issues with loose lines and a vastly reduced main. It’s highly unlikely I’d ever be caught out with anyone new to sailing and be putting the third reef in, but squalls can happen.
Even young children can understand the traffic light system and are keen to help out even if it’s just for fun. Adding an element of familiarity with every day life can make a day out on a strange boat that little bit less daunting for non-sailing friends.