How To

How to Sail Downwind

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Sailing downwind presents challenges, even for the professional sailor. To do it successfully, you must learn how to run and jibe.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Ease out the sheets so the sails catch as much wind as possible.

  2. Step 2

    Hold the jibsheet out to windward; when the jib fills with wind, you'll receive more power.

  3. Step 3

    If your boat has a centerboard, raise it to reduce side-to-side rocking.

  4. Step 4

    Work your way to a broad reach.

  5. Step 5

    Ease the sheet of each sail until the front edge begins to luff; trim it in until the luffing stops.

  6. Step 6

    Steer as necessary to stay on course.

Tips & Warnings
  • To get the most from your sails, keep them square to the apparent wind.
  • Before you start out for a day of sailing, familiarize yourself with the rigging on the boat.
  • Sailing downwind can create instability for your boat.

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