Abstract: A device for automatically securing in the hoist position the head of a sail of a sailing vessel on the mast of a vessel. The device comprises a body, one end of which is fitted with a device for securing the sail and the other end of which has passing through it a rod on which is fixed the halyard for handling the sail. In the body a hook is articulated, one arm of the hook projecting outwardly. A piston integrally formed with the rod is forced by a spring against the hook. When the piston is resting against the hook, the hook is locked, while in the opposite case the hook may pivot freely.