Crossword Genius

The reels are back in the boats (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sloops

'boats' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'the reels are back' is the wordplay.
'the reels' becomes 'spools' ('spool' can be a synonym of 'reel').
'are back' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'spools' written backwards gives 'SLOOPS'.

'in the' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for sloops that I've seen before include "Sailing vessels rigged fore and aft" , "ships" , "Boats" , "sailing vessels follow" .)

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