Elements of Sailing, Part 2
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Episode Summary
We return to the WoodenBoat waterfront for more sailing instruction with veteran sailor Jane Ahlfeld. In this second in a series of episodes on the art of sailing, we continue demonstrating the efficient ways of working with the wind while under sail. Jane will review the standard tacking procedure for getting a boat from point A to point B that she introduced to the viewer in an earlier episode. Sailing to windward is a continuous experiment to see how much you can get away with. Keeping in mind that the wind is changing constantly in direction and strength, Jane will emphasize that you always keep one eye on the luff of your mainsail.
We’ll then move on to the various safe steps of sailing downwind including controlled and uncontrolled jibes. The theory and practice to “heave to” or stop while under sail will be explained in diagrams and demonstrated on the water. And Jane will discuss adjusting your sail area to match the strength of the wind, when you should shorten sail, and the steps taken to tie in a reef and to shake it out. Becoming a confident sailor means more than just learning to sail. Gaining the skills taught in this episode will prove invaluable to reaching that goal.