Velero Regina · video

What this video covers

A boom brake built from a climbing figure-eight, rigged one-third of the way along the boom and led through a cleat and a turning block on Regina, failed to prevent a dangerous accidental gybe on a downwind passage from St. Barthélemy to St. Martin in 20–23 knots.3:38 Javi had released the brake to bring the mainsail back to center before rounding a headland, then forgot it was loose; the boom gybed twice in quick succession, tearing both mainsheet attachments off the boom.3:04 With the mainsail completely free in 23 knots, crew Mónica held the helm to prevent another gybe while Javi lashed the boom to a lifeline stanchion.4:16 Lowering the sail was further complicated when the lazy jack snagged on a batten car and had to be fully detached.5:00 Two 10mm boom bail rings had shattered on impact; replacements were upgraded to Dyneema soft shackles wrapped directly around the boom — no ring — which Javi rates as far stronger.6:46 The incident prompted a review of two Practical Sailor articles (linked in the description) confirming that no boom brake substitutes for a preventer in downwind sailing.5:53 The practical rule Javi draws: mainsail area sailing downwind should never exceed what you would carry on the same wind angle close-hauled.8:24

More from Velero Regina

In search of the new boatOct 2026Sailing on the Regina one last timeSep 2026Preparing Regina for the new ownerSep 2026Regina has been soldSep 2026

From Velero Regina — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed 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.