Reefing is a sailing manoeuvre intended to reduce the area of the mainsail on a yacht or sailing ship, to improve the ship's stability and reduce the risk of capsizing or broaching in a strong wind.

There are two common methods of reefing: roller reefing and jiffy reefing.

Roller reefing

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Roller reefing involves rolling or wrapping the sail around the vessel's boom or yard. This can be time-consuming and labour-intensive, but allows a more gradual and controllable method of reefing.

Jiffy reefing

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Jiffy reefing is quicker and easier, and involves folding the sail in sections along the beam.

Sailing manoeuvres

Prise de ris