Spinnaker – Definition and Pronunciation
What is Spinnaker?
Spinnaker is a three-sided, symmetrical, lightweight sail set at the bow of a sailboat when the wind is blowing from behind.
Examples of Spinakker
The Ultimate 20 is one of the fastest monohulls in production. Its planing hull has been known to hit speeds of 20 knots. Very lightweight, it has a big cockpit and spreads a large amount of sail thanks to its bowspritmounted asymmetrical spinnaker.
From “Cruising in Comfort on a Sailboat”.
Spinnakers are a different beast altogether. They are made of very light, stretchy nylon and are designed to trap air, while other sails are designed to change the way air flows. Spinnakers are tricky to fly, requiring a spinnaker pole to hold them out so they can properly fill, along with a lift and a downhaul for the pole.
From “Getting Underway and Sailing on the Sailboat”.
Racing sailboats usually have plenty of experienced hands aboard. They set spinnakers all the time, no problem. Cruisers don’t usually set spinnaker gear unless they’ve got a long downwind distance to cover in settled weather. The exception is asymmetrical «cruising spinnakers», which are easier to control and require less hardware.
From “Tips on Rigging a Boat and Using Knots in Sailing”.
Pronunciation of Spinnaker
