Adjusting Sail Area for Changes in Wind Conditions
When sailing, there is continuous interaction between wind and sails. This interaction is what generates the power to move the boat. Speed, performance, and control are greatly influenced by the amount of sail area exposed to the wind. When the wind is light, the boat requires more sail area in order to perform properly. When there is strong wind, the boat requires less sail area If there is too much sail area the boat will be over-powered.
In different wind conditions, the main sail is reduced by a technique called eefing. The area of the jib is usually adjusted by changing to a different jib. A boat with too much sail area exposed for the wind condition Will become hard to handle, and may even be forced out of control. The boat will also heel excessively. Excessive heeling forces more of the boat's hull surface area into the water. This also creates more friction and drag, slowing the boat. As the boat heels, less keel is presented to the water and this increases leeway. (sideways drift) Leeway greatly will affect upwind performance and pointing ability.
Overpowering can also force the boat off course. The helmsman must compensate by holding the tiller to one side. The increased rudder angle will act as a brake, slowing the boat down and affecting control. A boat with too much sail area for the wind conditions will move slower, make the crew work harder, be less comfortable since it is heeling over more, and will be harder to keep on course. when the sail area is reduced, the excess wind pressure is relieved. The boat will sail easier, faster, and be easier to keep on course. Using reduced sail area does not make the crew "less able" sailors. There is nothing embarrassing about reducing the sail area.
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