How to Trim Sails

Publisher: Adlard Coles Nautical, £10.99

Publication Date: 2nd ed. 2006

CA Library Reference: 16720

The trimming of sails, according to the author, is an acquired art and not a science. He describes this art in a dearly written way, well illustrated with diagrams and black and white photos.

He emphasises that this is a reference book, to be kept ready for use by the chart table and not in a bookcase. It is for those wishing to sail more effectively and more safely in the prevailing conditions. This may be to reduce passage time, to make that passage more comfortable, or to go just a little bit better than that nearby yacht.

There are comprehensive sections on the trimming controls and their effects on both mainsails and headsails (tellingly these are of equal length). Spinnakers are not included in the scope of the book. The requirements and care of running rigging and gear, mast set-up and the cause and cure of weather helm are described in detail.

Separate chapters then cover trim for beating and reaching for the main rigs, which are masthead, fractional with swept back spreaders and fractional with running backstays. Even dinghies are covered with a chapter on their own, including all controls and set-up, and trims for all wind strengths and points of sail. The book finishes with four double page tables summarising the requirements for effective sailing for the various rigs, and also dinghies.

A practical, well written reference book which encourages you to apply the information, go sailing, and see how much improvement results. - PL