Aids To Navigation (ATONS)
/by Grant HeadifenAids to Navigation include buoys, lights, lighthouses, and markers, among others…
Holding a Straight Course in Sailing
/by Grant HeadifenHolding a straight course is an imperative skill to master as you learn to sail. As an experienced sailor, nothing is more distracting to a good day out sailing than a novice helmsperson swinging the boat in all directions.
Securing Your Sailboat
/by Grant HeadifenIt is convenient to have dock lines that are pre-set to the right length with loops on the end and are permanently mounted onto the marina cleats. Now, when you return to the dock you simply slip the loops over your vessel cleats.
Latitude and Longitude
/by Grant HeadifenThe latitude and longitude coordinate system is the key navigational concept for sailing. It is the mariner’s coordinate system.
Vessel Lights and Shapes
/by Grant HeadifenNighttime can be a beautiful time to sail. However, night vision is not the same as day vision and so rules have been established to ensure safety.
Sail Trim
/by Grant HeadifenWhile setting the sails to general rules of thumb will get you really close to a good sail set,
Reefing the Sails
/by Grant HeadifenBefore 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
/by Grant HeadifenWhen 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…
Angle of heel on a sailboat
/by Grant HeadifenHeeling over or “heeling” on a sailboat is when it leans over. Learn what angle of heel on a sailboat is acceptable…
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