Chart Navigation Tips - Do You Know Your Sailboat's Leeway?
Did you realize that your cruising or racing sailboat slips sideways on any sailing course? And that this could add time and miles anytime you go sailing?
If you know how to compensate for leeway, your sailing courses will be more accurate. And, you will arrive at your destination faster! Watch this video to learn what to do--to make leeway work for you...
1. Use a hand bearing compass to take a bearing dead astern. To do this, stand on the centerline and sight through the backstay.
2. Take a second compass bearing on your boat's wake trail. The difference between the two bearings gives you the sailing leeway angle.
3. Calculate the compass course you need to steer to offset leeway. If on port tack, subtract the leeway angle; if on starboard tack, add the leeway angle. Check your leeway angle every so often in case it changes.