I usually sail solo, sloop-rigged. When I DO have crew, I usually have them trap out and handle my tramp-mounted jib sheets. They haul in on that sheet to hold themselves onto the hull so they don't fly off. I have never had my crew run the main while I steer. My question is then, what's left for the crew to hold onto if you have a Wouter-type self tacking jib sheet that is a short endless loop? Is it kind of like riding a bike with no hands? Sounds scary!
David,
As a former sloop crew, I think that is an excellent question, and I know exactly what you are talking about. Especially if you don't want the crew holding onto either the mainsheet or the traveler sheet. I would feel very insecure and unstable on the trapeze without my jib sheet.
