Linda Cullum

Sailing Theory, Sailing Terms and Weather

The sum of all wind pressure on the sail iscalled wind force. The center of that force, which is above thewater, is called the center of effort (CE). The center of theforce below the surface of the water is calledthe center oflateral resistance (CLR). This is the point where all the boat'sresistance to sideways pressure is concentrated. A boat performsbest when the two forces are in balance. This is when they arepositioned one over the other in a vertical line through theboat's sail and hull. Your job as a sailor is to keep these twoforces in proper balance so that your boat will sail correctly.You keep the boat balanced by shifting your weight and adjustingyour sail.

Your boat has weather helm when you have to constantly pull thetiller towards you to keep the boat straight on course. Lee helmis when you do the opposite; pushing the tiller towards thesail. Most boats are designed to have a little weather helm.However, too much of it can make sailing difficult in anythingother than light breezes. If your boat has a lot of weatherhelm, it means the CE and the CLR are not in alignment.There ismore sail pressure aft of the CLR than forward of it.

To correct the balance,

1. Shift your weight aft (back towardsthe stern).
2. Pull up the centerboard.
3. If your boat has a jib, ease (let out) the mainsail.
4. Try any combination of these.

Sailing Terms

Amidships- the middle of the boat.

Backwind- the wind flowing off the sail.

Close Hauled- one of the points of sail; sailing as close to thewind as possible.

Dead Astern- straight behind

Flaking- Folding the sail.

Glide Zone- the distance it take a boat to stop after turninghead to wind.

Heave To- to head the boat into the wind in order to slow itdown or stop it.

Weather- The Sea Breeze As a sailor you should know about localwinds. The cause of these winds is difference in temperature;cold air is heavier than warm air. The most popular of theselocal winds is the sea breeze. Warm air over the landrises...And is replaced by cooler air sinking over the ocean. Atnight the opposite happens. The land quickly loses its heat atnight and oftenfalls to a lower temperature than the water. Thisresults in a light offshore evening wind. On a lake or river,the warm air can rise at the edges to be replaced by the coolair over the water. This can result in a nice breeze forsailing.

Forcast for a Typical Sea Breeze Day: Morning Very Light Winds-No Weather Systems Near -Clear Sky -High Temperatures ButCooler Near the Shore

Afternoon: Wind coming from water starting Midday -CumulusClouds over land -Clear over water- Winds Speeds 8 - 12 knots

Evening: Winds Decreasing as sun slips over horizon

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