Close to wind is a nautical term that refers to the act of steering a sailing vessel as closely as possible into the direction from which the wind is blowing. In this context, "close" means close-hauled, which indicates the sailing angle relative to the apparent wind.
When a vessel sails close to wind, it positions itself in such a way that the angle between the direction of the wind and the sail is as small as possible while still allowing the sails to remain filled. By sailing close to wind, the vessel can make progress against the wind or sail as close as possible towards the source of the wind.
Sailing close to wind requires a skilled and precise technique, as the boat needs to be properly trimmed and balanced to maintain control and prevent stalling or excessive heeling while operating in such challenging conditions. Skippers and crew need to be attentive to sail adjustments, weight distribution, and other factors that affect the vessel's ability to sail efficiently and safely.
The act of sailing close to wind is essential when tacking, which involves turning the bow of the vessel through the wind to change direction. By sailing close to wind, the boat builds up speed and momentum, enabling it to sail through the wind's eye and complete the maneuver successfully.
Overall, close to wind is a crucial sailing technique that allows vessels to make progress against the wind, change direction efficiently, and navigate challenging weather conditions effectively.
