Sailing Education

Terms & Terminology

Sailing is full of esoteric terms and terminology. Click here to learn some of the basic terms, terminology and what they mean.

 

Wind & Wind Angles

Sailboats rely on the wind to move through the water. While sailboats cannot sail directly into the wind - the "No Go" zone - they can maneuver in just about every other direction relative to the wind. Click here to learn more about the wind and the names of the wind angles a boat can sail.

 

Race Documents & Class Association Rules

All sailboat races and regattas that comply with the standards and procedures for racing set by the sport's governing body will have specific documents published prior to the race. These documents are for the benefit of everyone involved - race organizers, race officials, and, most importantly, competitors. Click here to learn more about these important documents and how to use them to your advantage.

 

Starting a Race

One of the most intimidating aspects of a sailboat race is the start, or more accurately, the starting procedure. There is a lot going on the last few minutes before a race begins - flags, horns, boats everywhere, sometimes yelling. Click here to understand what is happening and when relative to the start of a race.