Here in our Genoa marina we know it well: for a sailor, the arrival of the winter season coincides with one of the most emotionally difficult moments, when they are forced to strip their boat of its soul: the sails. However, as they are a fundamental part, it is best to carry out the operation with care and not risk ruining everything. The winter period is perfect for cleaning and organizing the boat, as well as for completing all the winterizing tasks. Stripping the sails must, however, be done with extreme care, with the help of an expert. Let’s see how to approach sail storage, even at your own berth in the Genoa marina!
Sail storage: instructions
Where to start with sail storage for winter maintenance? In most cases, the jib is furled on a roller furler and does not take long to release. Simply slacken the halyard slightly, release the tack, lower the sail, and release the head, removing the sheets to complete the sail’s disassembly. Much more complicated is the transport to the dock, which always requires a few extra pairs of arms—perhaps look for help among your berth neighbors! The mainsail, on the other hand, takes more time, though its disassembly remains just as simple. The greatest risk is perhaps posed by fiberglass splinters from the battens, which can cause minor injuries. Come now, you are sailors…
Once the first operation is complete, you can move on to cleaning, which is mandatory before sail storage. The best way is to spread them out on a clean area and brush them carefully and without excessive force. The range of products to use in this phase is quite extensive, and there is no shortage of distributors (including online) ready to offer them to you. The only advice we can give is to avoid bleach, which has the effect of yellowing the sails—especially for fabrics like nylon and Kevlar—and jet cleaning equipment, which tends to weaken the stitching. More effective and less harmful solutions are great classics like neutral soap and soft-bristled brushes, if you do not have specific products available. Remember that it is important to thoroughly remove the salt and let the sail dry before folding it away for good.
Once completely dry, you can proceed with the actual sail storage, taking care to fold them neatly.
All that remains is to reiterate advice outlined earlier: if you are not experienced, get help. When handling sails you are touching one of the most delicate parts of the boat, and inexperienced hands can cause even serious damage. Going into storage while damaging the soul of your boat is certainly not the best way to spend the winter season. Better perhaps to entrust it to those who will take care of the various winter storage work to keep the boat in excellent condition while waiting for milder weather. After all, it is just a matter of waiting a few months.