North Sails offshore sailing tool kit

Downwind sailing on Mar Mostro with the bow finally pointed towards Lisbon. Onboard PUMA Ocean Racing powered by BERG during leg 7 of the Volvo Ocean Race 2011-12, from Miami, USA to Lisbon, Portugal © Amory Ross

When heading offshore, there are many things to keep in mind that can help you make it to the finish line in one piece. Planning ahead can contribute to your success and assure your crew and your boat is set up to take on anything mother nature can bring.

Here are some articles that will help you plan ahead, expect the unexpected, and get the best results in the upcoming offshore racing scene.

Good luck, sail fast, be safe, and sail smart!

Finding the right fit

Ken Read has plenty of experience in building ocean racing teams. Here is his advice for speed and success when it comes to finding the right players for the positions.

Build your team

Planning ahead

Preparing successfully to compete in the biggest offshore races requires putting your attention to every detail. When sailing the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race (or a similar race that heads well offshore such as the Newport Bermuda Race, Fastnet or Transpac), you'll need to win a different sort of race after crossing the finish line—the delivery back to your home port.

Forecasting

Fueling your crew

For many teams, preparing for any offshore race begins immediately after the finish of the previous edition. Here's what Sarah O'Kane from Shorebase, a logistics company, says is important to properly provisioning for your next offshore adventure.

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The solution to every hoist

When it comes to hoisting your spinnaker, there are some details to consider that make everyone's life easier (or harder). Having zippers instead of bands is a great way to achieve a smoother, cleaner and quicker hoist, as well as help keep trash out of the ocean.

Learn how

Shift changes: know your role

It is important to always have a clear strategy for the team on deck to follow, so that rest periods by the navigator do not lead to missed opportunities or mistakes.

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To reef or not to reef

Shortening sail quickly and easily when the breeze comes on is key to looking after your sails and your crew.

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Safety is no accident

Hardcore ocean racers and coastal cruisers alike should all make safety at sea a priority. North Sails President and offshore veteran, Ken Read, shares his tips and best protocols for sailing offshore.

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Get downwind, fast!

Steering off the wind, on reaches and runs, requires a coordinated effort between helmsman and spinnaker trimmer. More often than not there are conflicting suggestions: Go up. Go down. Be more aggressive. Steer less. Hear our thoughts on how to manage feedback from the crew.

Learn how to

The trip home is just as important

Preparing successfully to compete in the biggest offshore races requires putting your attention to every detail. When sailing an offshore race you'll need to win a different sort of race after crossing the finish line—the delivery back to your home port.

Learn more

Inventory checks

Have you made arrangements for sail check-ups after the delivery home? Every sail serviced in a North loft undergoes a thorough inspection designed to identify maintenance issues early, so they do not become major problems later on. Contact your nearest loft when you hit the dock after your delivery. We look forward to helping you maintain your sail inventory so you are ready for the next event.

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