Hi Ron,

Yes exactly, I think we are saying the same thing. I’m referring to what would be the new guy/old sheet after the pole-less gybe.

Having gybed from starboard to port would not the old sheet have to be trimmed in to get the spinnaker to windward of the jib (rather than pulling on the guy)?

Hi Ron,

Great question! This article is geared specifically towards asymmetrical boats, but you can do a similar manoeuvre with a symmetrical kite — it’s essentially a windward drop. The general concept: headsail up, pole down, gybe the main and headsail while letting the pole-less kite float. As you turn upwind around the mark, pull on the guy and ease the sheet to guide the kite onto the windward side of the headsail/jib, then haul it down inside the headsail/jib.

Heather

Hi Doug,

Thanks so much for your comment—and for the kind words!

Yes, I’ve seen that Kiwi Drop done exactly that way, and when it’s executed well, it’s super clean. The main drawback in my opinion is missing out on that powerful mark-rounding pump, when the jib trimmer sheets in as the boat heads up and coordinates with the main trimmer.

That pump can give you a nice boost in acceleration out of the rounding as you transition onto the wind. That said, your approach is a great option—especially when you’re sailing short-handed or prioritizing a tidy drop.

Appreciate you sharing your experience from Sydney!

Cheers,
Heather

PS Thanks for the great knowledge share stuff. Much appreciated!
Doug (Sydney, Australia)