Boating Knowledge Archives

Sail Trim

October 12, 2023/by Grant Headifen

While setting the sails to general rules of thumb will get you really close to a good sail set,

Before heading out, check forecasted wind conditions to see if you might need to reef at some point during the day. If so, make appropriate reefing preparations in the calm marina and ensure your crew knows the procedure.

Sailing Heave To

October 12, 2023/by Grant Headifen

When you have successfully hove-to (heaved-to), your sailboat will be in a stable situation with the mainsail and headsail still up. Your forward speed will be minimal and…

Action by a Stand-On Vessel Nav Rule

August 31, 2023/by Grant Headifen

Strangely enough, the written text for the action of a Stand-On vessel is longer than that of a Give-Way vessel.

Seamanship Nav Rules

August 31, 2023/by Grant Headifen

Navigation rules refer many times to good seamanship, The best advice we can give here around seamanship is to get experience…

Boat Heading vs Sail Set and Forces on the Sail

August 30, 2023/by Grant Headifen

The set of your sail depends on your sailing angle to the wind. You’re working to maximize the aerodynamic forces on the sail.

Sailboats Under Power

August 30, 2023/by Grant Headifen

A Sailboat Under Engine Power is a Power-Driven Vessel Rule 3(c) The term “sailing vessel” means any vessel under sail provided that propelling machinery…

Fairlead Control

August 30, 2023/by Grant Headifen

The fairlead is the first control device that the jib sheet passes through on its way back to the cockpit. You can move the fair lead forward or backward.

Vessels in Restricted Visibility

August 28, 2023/by Grant Headifen

What is the safe speed at night, in fog? As safe as it needs to be under good seamanship.

Overtaking Vessels

August 28, 2023/by Grant Headifen

When overtaking another vessel, we quote the rules exactly because they are incredibly clear…