Dynamics of Furling Systems - In Loft Example

Sailmaker and Rigger Alison Wood explains the dynamics of Headsail Furling Systems. Using our sample system here in the sail loft she reviews the furling line, the foil, fair leads, and more.
Videography and design by sailmaker Lacey Capel.

[@billsavoie5435]

I know almost nothing about actual sailing, but I found this informative. I think it would be better if you had a clip on microphone. You can get them even for a cell phone video camera. As a complete novice (79 years old) I need a bit of clarification about port and starboard. I only have a 17 ft. day sailor, but I love watching ocean going solo sailors. Keep up the good work.

[@PortTownsendSailsHasseCo]

Thank you! Your feedback is very much appreciated Bill. Starboard and Port are right and left respectively. We will look into a clip-on mic.

[@seangoulding904]

One way I’ve taught the memorization of Port and Starboard that seems to stick, “Port” has 4 letters and so does “Left” so left=port.
For a more historical context, on vessels in Old English/Norse times, the tiller and rudder (or “steering oar”) were most frequently on the right handed side of the vessel, thus is was the “steer board” side. And if all of the steerage was on the right then you would always load on unload at the harbour or port from the left side of the vessel. Thus the left side would eventually become known as the port side.

[@mcd22630]

Thanks. There was a 50/50 chance I would have setup the furling line incorrectly.

[@PortTownsendSailsHasseCo]

Our pleasure! Hence the purpose of the video! It can be a confusing process.