A few systems for sailing my Westsail 32 downwind
28 December 2024 · 12 min · 3K views · Beaufort, North Carolina
What this video covers
A Westsail 32, named Mighty Sparrow, sails downwind in 20-knot winds while transiting from Beaufort towards Charleston.0:48 The vessel maintains speeds up to 8.5 knots using a wing-on-wing configuration with a staysail and mainsail.2:13 To simplify deck operations, the staysail sheet runs between the upper and lower shrouds to a track, eliminating the need for uphauls, braces, or downhauls.3:20 A preventer line runs from the boom to a block on the deck and back to the cockpit for adjustable tension.5:06 The Aries wind vane, nicknamed Mongo, steers the vessel by connecting control lines directly to the tiller.8:35 For comfort in rolling seas, a beanbag chair serves as the primary seating in the cockpit.7:08 The owner keeps the deck clear of excess lines, including leaving the main halyard uncoiled, to ensure quick access during reefing or dousing.6:34
Boats in this video
More from Sailing Into Oblivion
From Sailing Into Oblivion — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.