Epic Navigator · video

What this video covers

Docking a sailboat with lines already under load requires a specific cleat technique to avoid jammed, over-tensioned lines.0:06 When a line is fully loaded on a cleat, the wraps bind and adding or removing the line becomes difficult or dangerous.0:16 The technique shown uses the cleat's horn to take controlled wraps, keeping the line parallel to the cleat face so tension is distributed evenly and the line can still be eased or released without jamming.1:41 A small amount of slack is introduced before attempting to remove or reposition a loaded line, allowing the final turn to be cleared safely.2:04 The same approach applies when using a windlass: a short tail of slack is added before the second wrap is taken, and the line is cleated only after confirming no residual load remains on the standing part.3:19 The key safety point is that no one should stand in the bight or behind a loaded line when it is being transferred or released, as all tension must be allowed to run to the cleat before the line is secured.3:45

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