Slack Off

To ease a line in a controlled manner so that its tension is reduced.

The instruction may apply to a sheet, halyard, mooring line, control line or tackle and can mean a small adjustment rather than complete release. ‘Slack away’ or ‘ease’ may be used similarly, but crew terminology should be agreed.

A loaded line can surge as friction reduces, and releasing too far may lose control or allow equipment or a vessel to move suddenly. The tail, winch, cleat, clutch or brake should remain managed and hands kept away from bights and pinch points.