Learning How to Sail

Cumberland Charter Yachts

Sailing is one of the most well-loved hobbies of those who want to experience some fun and relaxation. If you are thinking of taking your family on a sailing vacation, it is necessary that you know how to sail.

The fundamental principles of sailing consists of a number of specific set of rules and procedures that must be followed for you to successfully sail on various waterways. Someone who would like to set sail should learn the right navigation terms, procedures as well as the basic skills and techniques for controlling sailboats. So, start looking for a Whitsunday yacht charter company and know the basic skills in sailing.

Sail setting - You can set the sail of your boat depending on your specific point of location and the direction of the wind. Sail setting requires listening. Let out the sail until you hear it flutter along the luff of the boat. This is the part that is closest to the mast. And when you hear the fluttering stop, pull the sail back in.

Balancing the boat - Heeling is the instance when your boat leans to one side because of wind pressure. To overcome heeling and maintain the balance of the boat, it is necessary to be aware of the wind and the positioning of the sails. To fix heeling you need to put as much weight as you can on the opposite side of the boat. Your crew may sit on the side deck to resist heeling.

Fore and aft trim - It is important that your boat is balanced from the two opposite ends. Typically, the bow or the front part of the boat is slightly raised higher than the rear side which is known as the stern. The body weight distribution of the crew on board is important in maintaining balance. If you notice that the boat is lugging in the water which usually takes place when the stern is too low, put more weight to the middle or towards the front side of the boat. However, if you notice that the bow is submerged in the water go to the back of the boat.

Centerboard positioning - The centerboard is either made of wood, metal or fiber, depending on what the body of your boat is made of. Itis the moving fin located under the hull or the watertight structure which gives buoyancy for any boat. By adjusting the centerboard based on your desired direction, you'll be able to fix any drift.

Tacking - Going from one spot to another is not always a straight course. This is is most likely to happen when you are moving directly to the wind. You need to plan a route in order to get to the point of destination in the shortest time possible which is generally accomplished through a type of maneuver called tacking. Tacking is steering of the boat in a zigzag and upwind direction.

Now that you know some of the fundamental skills in sailing, it is time to finally go boating in the Whitsundays,