DSK wrote:

Push the boom out to starboard. Center the tiller. Wait for the boat
to start moving backwards.

Most boats will begin to fall off to port (ie onto port tack) with the
boom backed to starboard. You can have the helm at any position and the
forces on the rig & hull & keel will produce this effect.

Agreed. But the boat will move backwards more easily with the tiller
centered than with it hard over.

I've found that a light touch on the tiller really helps when sailing
backwards. When you're moving backwards, putting the tiller hard over
just acts as a break, and the boat may spin around the stern in either
direction regardless of which way you point the tiller.


.... Move the tiller slightly to starboard (not too much or you'll
stop the boat by using the rudder as a brake.) The boat will start
backing around presenting the port side to the wind. Once you've
turned enough that you're on a close reach heading, trim in the main,
center the tiller and start saiing forward.

What if the boat gets stuck in irons again?

Lather, rinse, repeat. But do it right this time. (c:


Why might it do this?

Weather helm, exacerbated by sailing under main alone.


What techniques would you recommend for tacking to avoid getting stuck
in irons?

More or less in order of effectiveness:

Make sure you have adequate boat speed.
Don't stall the rudder.
Get the jib repaired.
Don't sail catboats.
Or catamarans.
Hire a competent captain.
Stay on shore.

//Walt