Here are some basic sailing terms and techniques:
Windward: The direction from which the wind is blowing, coming from, upwind
Leeward: The direction away from which the wind is blowing, direction the wind is blowing to
Tacking: Turning the bow of the boat through the wind so that the sails fill on the opposite side.
Jibing: Turning the stern of the boat through the wind so that the sails fill on the opposite side.
Sail trim: The adjustment of the sails to achieve the best speed and pointing ability.
Pointing: The ability of a boat to sail as close to the wind as possible.
Running: Sailing with the wind coming from behind the boat.
Reaching: Sailing with the wind coming from the side of the boat.
Heeling: The tilt of the boat caused by wind pressure on the sails.
Rudder: The steering device at the stern of the boat.
Boom: The horizontal spar that extends aft from the mast and supports the foot of the mainsail.
Mainsail: The primary sail that is attached to the mast and boom.
Jib: A triangular sail attached to the forestay.
Halyard: The line used to raise and lower the sails.
Sheet: The line used to control the angle of the sails.
To sail effectively, it’s essential to understand these terms and techniques and practice them regularly.
