Spinnakerilla

Spinnakerilla is a term used to describe a diminutive spinnaker, a downwind sail designed to increase speed on light to moderate wind routes. The name combines the traditional spinnaker with the diminutive suffix -illa, suggesting a smaller size or simplified handling compared with a full-size spinnaker. It is most commonly associated with recreational and training sailing on dinghies and small keelboats.

Design and construction

A spinnakerilla is typically constructed from lightweight nylon or polyester laminates, chosen for their ease of handling and quick deployment. Its sail area is smaller than a standard spinnaker, often roughly 60–80% of a full-scale spinnaker for a boat class of similar size. The cut can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, and it is designed to be flown with a dedicated halyard. On many small boats, it may be used with a sock or retrieval system to simplify handling, and it is usually rigged without the need for a long spinnaker pole, relying instead on a bow or foredeck attachment point.

Deployment and handling

The spinnakerilla is set on downwind legs, typically from a bow-mounted halyard and sometimes with a simple sock system to ease hoisting and dousing. It is favored for easier handling on smaller crews, offering a balance between speed and manageability. Proper use requires clear wind and sufficient space to avoid entanglements with the mainsail or jib, and attention to the sheet and halyard tensions to prevent flutter or wraps.

Applications and performance

Common on recreational dinghies, youth trainers, and small keelboats, the spinnakerilla provides notable speed gains in light to moderate air while reducing the complexity and risk associated with larger spinnakers. Limitations include reduced power in stronger winds and potential handling challenges in tight spaces. See also: spinnaker, gennaker, code zero.