I'm not so sure about the immediate need for dropping sail. It's been my experience that doing so takes time (for some a very long time) and can potentially be very distracting right when the most imperative need is to stay in the vicinity of the MOB and maintain visual contact. Sure, start the motor, but turn back and return to the MOB ASAP, using both sail and power (if need be). Approach the MOB from downwind and let the sails flog. Remember a spinning prop can be an extreme hazard.
Agreed! All the attention to getting the sails down puts you at risk of losing sight of the crew in the water. It all really depends on the conditions. This method is the under power version. The figure 8, quick stop or broad-reach-close reach under sail all work. In our Catamaran Masterclass, we discuss much more in-depth. Bottom line, find the one that works best for your boat and crew then practice it often.
I'm not so sure about the immediate need for dropping sail. It's been my experience that doing so takes time (for some a very long time) and can potentially be very distracting right when the most imperative need is to stay in the vicinity of the MOB and maintain visual contact. Sure, start the motor, but turn back and return to the MOB ASAP, using both sail and power (if need be). Approach the MOB from downwind and let the sails flog. Remember a spinning prop can be an extreme hazard.
Agreed! All the attention to getting the sails down puts you at risk of losing sight of the crew in the water. It all really depends on the conditions. This method is the under power version. The figure 8, quick stop or broad-reach-close reach under sail all work. In our Catamaran Masterclass, we discuss much more in-depth. Bottom line, find the one that works best for your boat and crew then practice it often.