I have now collated all the feedback and passed it on to Martin Thomas who is editing the new edition of "Heavy Weather Sailing".
It was great to hear first hand accounts from Randall Reeves, Jeanne Socrates, Tony Gooch, Tim Good and Susanne Huber-Curphey among many others. The new edition of HWS will appear in due course but should anyone be considering venturing into the more extreme conditions and want to know more about the JSD I have attached a copy of my summary below.
I would also like to hear of some of the more technical aspects from anyone that has used the JSD .
Boat length and weight
number and type of cones
approximate distance from the stern to the first cones
Tail weight used

Here is Trevor Roberton’s blog about JSD’s describing his experience gained from 11 deployments in anger http://iron-bark.blogspot.com/2023/09/notes-on-use-of-jordan-drogue.html

Simon

+x

 

Simon Currin - 18 Jan 2024

Here is Trevor Roberton’s blog about JSD’s describing his experience gained from 11 deployments in anger http://iron-bark.blogspot.com/2023/09/notes-on-use-of-jordan-drogue.html

Simon

Hi Simon,
I have read a number of descriptions of the use of the JSD, but this is among the best: in part as he covers all the basics as well as the potential pitfalls. Trevor also makes clear the amount of work it takes to keep the boat safe when conditions get to the point where a JSD is necessary.
And this from a sailor who, as the saying goes, has been-there-done-that.
My best, Dick Stevenson, s/v Alchemy

Thanks Simon. Interesting use of the bridle retrieval line being use to skew the boat by some angle when different swells combine. Very interesting concept. That method perhaps warrants a much stronger retrieval line than perhaps others are using. I think I’ll do the same from now on.