How to Properly Ballast Your Sailboat

Weight plays a critical role in racing. Too much or too little weight in the wrong place can slow your boat considerably.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Class Rule Book
• Sailboat Racing Rule Book
• Life Jackets
• Sailboats

1. Read your class rules regarding required safety equipment, crew restrictions and removal of any standard items that come with your boat.

2. Ask your class president if you are unsure of any weight requirement or would like to remove something not listed in the rules.

3. Lighten your boat by removing any excess materials (i.e. cruising-related gear) and emptying any water tanks. If your boat has an engine, keep a limited amount of fuel in case of emergency.

4. Stow other weight low and over the keel.

5. Seat crew on the rail upwind to flatten your boat in medium to heavy air; seat them in the center of the deck or on the leeward side in light air.

6. Keep unnecessary weight off the bow and stern at all times.

Tips & Warnings

• On a bigger boat, weight has less importance than in dinghy sailing. Nevertheless, every pound in the right place counts for something.

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