Tacking

Changing from one tack to the other by turning the bow through the wind, or progressing by a series of such manoeuvres.

A single tack moves the sails from one side to the other; repeated tacking allows a sailing vessel to make progress towards a destination lying within its direct no-go sector. The optimum headings and timing depend on wind shifts, current, waves, traffic and vessel performance.

The process is not simply a fixed zigzag and each turn costs speed and distance. Lookout, sea room, crew communication and management of the boom and loaded sheets remain essential during every manoeuvre.

For example, sail close-hauled with the wind on one side, turn the bow through the wind, then settle close-hauled on the other tack. Compare this with gybing, where the stern passes through the wind. The Points of Sail Trainer helps you recognise each heading before you practise with an instructor.