Reefing Main single-handed -- easiest / safest way

[Zozza 293]

Double-line, Single line, lines back to cockpit or not, jiffy/slab, strong track, Dutchmans, Lazy jacks, and on and on........

What is the easiest and safest way to set up your reefing system on 26-30 foot sailboats when most of your sailing is single-handed?

 

[ex TL systems 63]

Lazy jacks that can support the boom , an autopilot , a mainsail track system that allows the sail to go up and down freely and all reefing lines in place at all times is a good place to start. Also full batten sails seem to help.

[Kevin McCready 83]

Whatever you do, clip on when going forward if you're single-handed. A sailor I greatly admire urges this practice on me as a good habit so that I'll be in the groove when I need to clip on in earnest.

 

Printed on my safety card (for people who come aboard) is:

"SAFETY IS HABIT

So always do boat tasks exactly the same way. Even if it takes a bit longer, enjoy the zen of safety. When you're tired and in trouble, your brain will do the thing you've trained it for."