Windage

Windage refers to the resistance or drag experienced by a boat or ship as it moves through the air. Windage is influenced by the vessel’s shape, size, and surface area exposed to the wind. High windage can make steering and manoeuvring more difficult, especially in strong winds. Sailboats, in particular, rely on wind to propel them forward, but excessive windage can also cause them to be pushed off course (leeway) or heeled over excessively.

Windage can create unintended vessel movement, making mooring more difficult when it has no way.