Tacking (Upwind Turn)

Turn through the wind with minimal loss of speed.
Maneuver Upwind

Overview

Enter with speed, turn smoothly through head-to-wind, and trim promptly on the new side.

Objectives

  • Maintain rudder flow.
  • Trim quickly on the new tack.
  • Find best upwind angle after exit.

Key Concepts

  • Entry speed
  • Continuous turn
  • Ease then trim on exit

Drills

  1. Count 3–4 seconds through the turn.
  2. Steer a touch low to accelerate, then head up.
  3. Chain two tacks focusing on exit speed.

Common Mistakes

  • Turning too slowly and stopping in irons.
  • Not easing as boat powers up.
  • Over-steering past close-hauled.
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