Yachtsman’s Gale

An informal name sometimes given to Beaufort force 6, a strong breeze.

On the Beaufort scale, force 6 corresponds to a mean wind speed of 22–27 knots. At sea, large waves begin to form, white foam crests are extensive and some spray is likely.

The expression is colloquial rather than an official Beaufort description. Force 6 can place substantial loads on sails and rigging, and prudent sail reduction depends on the vessel, crew, sea state and point of sail.