Sailing downwind

[Steviec14]

Any tips on mainsail trim upwind and downwind (traveller, leach tension etc) in all wind ranged

Plus up wind in stronger winds? Been told to dump the traveller but maintain leech tension (via tell tales) before reefing

Any trim tips very welcome!

[Fritz]

ok, let me start off:

light winds: twist the main, traveller to windward
medium winds: tighten the main sheet, straighten the main, traveller as before.
strong winds: ease the traveller and if necessary ease the main sheet to depower the main. If you have a downhaul, pull it more as more wind kicks in.

[Steviec14]

Thank you!

Downwind, any tips?

[Fritz]

Sure I do have tips.

Light to medium if not strong winds:

Traveller all the way out, use the preventer for the boom if it is blowing 15 kts and more
Mainsheet all the way out.

If you need to depower in really strong winds, sheet in and traveller only half way out.

[alexgilbert]

Who does not loves downwind sailing! Experiencing the rush of the sails and the forward motion of the vessel certainly is unique. There's a catch though, one has to be quite attentive when steering and sailing trim. As I need proofreading of my essay for clarity and conciseness, so also maintaining attention when at sea is crucial in achieving a harmonious cruise.