Situation
Headsails on maxi keelboats competing in Category 1 ocean races are very heavy (some up to 300kg) and difficult to move into and store in the cabin. RRS 51 says ‘All movable ballast, including sails that are not set, shall be properly stowed. ………….’

Question 1
In the context of a Category 1 ocean race, may sails be ‘properly stowed’ when they are tied in place in the cockpit, considering that due to the weight and size it may be unsafe to move them below. Further, if they were stored below deck, they would restrict access to important equipment.

Answer 1
Rule 51 requires sails that are not being used to be properly stowed. However, it does not state any obligation regarding where on the boat these sails are to be stowed. Other Measurement and Safety rules that may apply can put further restrictions on the positioning of movable items.

Question 2
What is a definition of ‘properly stowed’ as it appears in RRS 51?

Answer 2
The term 'properly stowed' is not defined in the rulebook, so it is used in its nautical or general sense.