How to Tack in a Sailboat

Sailboats move fastest when the wind is behind them, pushing them along (this is known as "running"). When a boat sails into the wind, it does so by "tacking" back and forth across the gusts in a zigzag pattern. Follow these steps to understand the basics of tacking.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sailboat

1. Announce that you are about to tack over before doing so. This warns the crew that they must duck the boom, which swings over when the mainsail changes position.

2. Yell “Lee ho,” “Boom over” or something along these lines (agree on what you will yell beforehand) as you begin the actual tack. Make sure that your crew knows what this means.

3. Turn the sailboat across the wind. Maintain momentum so that the boat doesn't stall or the wind forces you back.

4. Adjust the jib yourself, or have one of the crew do it. Also adjust any other sails if your boat has more than one.

Tips & Warnings

• Never tack without warning the crew. A boom to the head can cause serious injury or even throw crew members overboard.

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