Jacklines (vs jack's line)

[Ian McColgin]

Different lifeline arrangements mean different tethers. Most people preferr to go forward along the weather rail.

On a two or more masted boat where the jackline can be strung held up at the shrouds (you'll want the final anchor at a chainplate way further aft or forward) this can give you a nice long run and a handy support to hang on to.

I tried it on Goblin, an Alden 43' schooner, but didn't like the clutter. On Granuaile - an LFH Marco Polo - the tendency to extreme heel made it actually safer and easier to go forward along the lee side, which is where most work you'll have to do is happening anyway.

So for me, a jack line bow to stern as much inboard as possible without getting hung on a dorade or such has been happiest, but it is very much worth experimenting as different boats get different long splices.

G'luck