Lazy jack

[1] They consist of a network of cordage which is rigged to a point on the mast and to a series of points on either side of the boom; these lines form a cradle which helps to guide the sail onto the boom when it is lowered, reducing the crew needed to secure the sail.

[2] The oyster dredging sailboats of the Chesapeake Bay, bugeyes and skipjacks, were invariably equipped with lazy jacks, as their huge sail plans, combined with the changeable conditions on the bay, made it necessary to be able to reef quickly and with a small crew.

Of late they have been revived as a feature of pleasure yachts as an alternative to roller reefing and furling.

Also, unlike the roller systems, some crew member(s) must be on deck to secure the sail.

It is generally claimed that the name has its origins in the colloquial reference to British sailors as "Jack tars".