Selftacking

Selftacking is a sailing term referring to a foresail rig arrangement that allows a boat to tack with minimal or no crew input on the sails. The term typically describes a self-tacking jib or genoa, which can switch from one tack to the other during a tack without the need to adjust the sheets by hand. This feature is most common on small to mid-sized cruising yachts and is valued for simplifying short-handed sailing.

Mechanisms vary, but a typical self-tacking setup uses a foredeck track or a dedicated sheet lead that guides the foresail as the boat tacks. A sliding car or a specialized tacking arrangement allows the sail to pass the mast and switch sides while remaining attached to the forestay. In many designs, the sheet lead changes automatically or with minimal adjustment, so the crew does not have to reposition the sheets on every tack.

Advantages include reduced workload during tacks, especially in confined spaces or rough seas, and more consistent sail trim for crews sailing short-handed. Self-tacking systems can enable faster, safer tacking in tight channels and are often favored on cruising boats for ease of handling and comfort.

Limitations and considerations include potential compromises in upwind performance due to fixed leads, higher initial cost and complexity, and restrictions on sail size or rig type. Some systems may not offer the same degree of sail shape control as adjustable-sheet configurations, and regular maintenance is required to keep the mechanism functioning smoothly.

See also: jib, genoa, roller furling, sailing rig.