trysails

Trysail, also known as a storm jib, is a small, heavy-duty sail used on sailboats in heavy weather. It is typically set on the forestay, which is the stay running from the top of the mast to the bow of the boat. Trysails are designed to be much smaller than the boat's normal headsail, and they are made from very strong material, such as dacron or canvas, to withstand the high winds and rough seas that can occur during a storm.

The primary purpose of a trysail is to provide a small amount of sail area that is manageable in high winds. This allows the helmsman to maintain steerage and control of the boat, preventing it from being knocked down by waves or pushed off course. By reducing the sail area, the heeling moment of the boat is also reduced, making it more comfortable and safer for the crew. In severe conditions, a trysail can be used in conjunction with a deeply reefed mainsail or alone to heave-to, a technique where the boat is positioned to drift slowly and safely while waiting for the storm to pass.

Setting a trysail usually involves removing the regular headsail and attaching the trysail to the forestay. Many sailboats are equipped with a dedicated track on the mast for a trysail. This allows the trysail to be set independently of the headsail and often uses its own halyard and sheets. The construction of a trysail is robust, often featuring reinforced stitching and grommets to handle the significant loads imposed by strong winds. Its small size and sturdy build make it a critical piece of safety equipment for offshore sailing.