Boom Out

To hold a headsail out to windward, usually with a pole, when sailing downwind.

When a boat is running, the mainsail can shield the headsail from the wind. Holding the headsail’s clew out on the opposite side can keep it filled, creating the arrangement commonly described as goosewinged. A properly rigged whisker pole or spinnaker pole is normally used rather than the main boom.

The pole, sheets and any control lines must be rigged for the loads involved and adjusted as the boat’s course changes. Crew should also manage the risk of an accidental gybe and keep clear of the pole and loaded lines. “Boom out” is heard in sailing usage, but “pole out the headsail” describes the operation more precisely.