How to wrap a sheet correctly on a sailboat winch

When loading a sheet onto a winch, the process is simple but must be done correctly to avoid a riding turn or losing control. Wrap the line clockwise around the winch drum three times, never letting the wraps cross or overlap each other. On the third wrap, feed the line up through the self-tailing stripper arm at the top of the drum and into the cleat groove so the winch can grip it automatically. Then insert the winch handle firmly into the socket at the top, making absolutely sure you do not drop it overboard. Once the handle is seated, grind to trim the sail. Lauren walks a first-timer through every step of this process while getting the mainsail out inside the atoll before heading through the pass.