furling

Furling is the nautical practice of rolling or folding a sail around a spar, stay, or into a drum to store it or reduce sail area. It is common on modern cruising sailboats, where it simplifies sail handling and can improve safety for crews who are short-handed or sail solo.

The most widespread form is roller furling for headsails. A furling system uses a foil along the forestay and a rotating drum or swivel at the base. The headsail is attached at its luff and can be wound around the foil as the sail is rolled in, controlled from the cockpit by a line and winch. When furled, only a small portion of the sail is exposed to wind, allowing quick adjustment of sail area.

Mainsail furling is also used, primarily in two configurations: in-mast furling, where the mainsail rolls into the mast, and boom furling, where the sail is rolled along the boom or a luff spar. These systems reduce the need to handle the full weight of a rolled mainsail but can compromise sail shape when only partially furled.

Advantages include easier handling, faster reefing, and safer operation in varying conditions. Disadvantages can include higher cost and weight, added system complexity, sail shape compromises when partially furled, and potential for wear on furling components.

Maintenance focuses on keeping furling lines, drums, foils, and sails clean and free of chafe. Regular inspection and lubrication, plus periodic practice to ensure reliable operation, are recommended. See also: headsail, mainsail, roller furling system.