How to Do a Duck Tack on a Windsurf Board

Execute a quick carving tack by ducking your head under the boom as you change headings.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Life Vests
• Wet Suits
• Windsurf Boards
• Windsurf Rigs

1. Windsurf a close reach, angling upwind.

2. Carve into the wind by leaning onto your windward (upwind) rail.

3. Turn your body and switch your feet to face the opposite tack without losing your carve. Keep one foot near the mast and the other well back on the board.

4. Release the boom with your rear hand, reach around the back of the sail and grab the other side of the boom as far forward as possible.

5. Duck your head under the rig and release your old front hand to place it in position as your new back hand on your new boom.

6. Continue carving and release your clew to the downwind, allowing you to gain your balance against the rig.

7. Adjust your body position as you complete the turn, placing your feet in their new foot straps.

8. Sheet in and ride away on your new tack.

Tips & Warnings

• The duck tack is best learned on a slalom board in mild conditions.
• The duck tack is one of the harder tacks, but also one of the quickest.
• Always wear a life vest when windsurfing.
• Beginners should only learn in mild conditions.
• Windsurfing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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