Sailing Uma · video

What this video covers

The electric-powered sailboat *Uma* relies on a comprehensive sail inventory to maintain performance without a diesel engine.0:35 The current mainsail features three reefing points, allowing for balance in winds exceeding 35 knots.4:18 The crew manages all reefing and halyard adjustments at the mast, utilizing a dedicated reefing winch and internal halyard routing to eliminate slapping noise.5:35 A custom 12:1 cascading block boom vang, constructed with Dyneema, provides sufficient tension to maintain sail shape during downwind runs.8:45 For light-wind conditions, the boat utilizes a Code Zero on a roller furler for reaching and a symmetrical spinnaker for downwind sailing.11:22 A storm jib remains stored as an emergency backup.25:43 To protect the mainsail from UV degradation, the crew uses a stack pack system.4:25 The cockpit layout features a forward-positioned helm with main and jib sheet controls within reach, facilitating single-handed operation.10:03 Proper sail selection and reefing management are essential for maintaining control and safety on an electric vessel.

More from Sailing Uma

The ONE Thing We Disagreed on This Entire Refit | Step 494Aug 2026We Owe You The Full StoryJul 2026We spent $10,000 on something Pretty | Step 493Jul 2026We Covered Our Boat in Solar. Is It Enough? | Step 492 (Part 3)Jul 2026

From Sailing Uma — 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.