Knowing the direction from which the Wind is blowing is one of the basics of Sailing. Points of Sailing refer to the course of the Sailboat in relation to the direction of the Wind. You need to make the necessary adjustment in the Sails so the Sailboat will go to its destination.

The Different Points of Sail:

No-Sail Zone

This is the point directly upwind of the Sailboat. The Sails cannot generate power since the boat is pointed too close to the Wind. When the Wind is coming from where you want to go, you will be forced to follow a zigzag course. The Sail will be flapping like a flag. The closest you can get is 40-45º of the direction of the Wind. If the Sailboat goes within the 45º, the Sails shake and the boat stops.

Close Reach

At this point, the Sailboat is 20º away from the close-hauled area. This is an upwind angle between Close-Hauled and Beam Reach.

Beam Reach

Most Sailboats are fastest when on this point. The Sailboat is known to be on a Beam Reach if the Wind is directly blowing over the side of the Sailboat, or it is steered at right angles to the Wind.

Broad Reach

This is the point wherein the Wind comes over the port of the boat, or the Wind comes behind the Sailboat at an angle.

Training Run

Usually used when teaching beginners, a training run is off a true run by 5-10º.

Running

At this point, the Sailboat is directly sailing downwind.

Close-Hauled

This is the point where boats are sailed very near the Wind.

Points of Sail – Summary

These are the Points of Sail. It will take some practice to know these points and learn to adjust when changing from one point to another, but you will realize soon enough that this is for your own safety and enjoyment afloat.