Sailing Fundamentals Reference
Quick-lookup tables for essential sailing knowledge
Use this page as a quick reference while studying or on the water. You can filter the tables using the search box above.
Directional Terms
| Term | Meaning | Memory Aid |
|---|---|---|
| Bow | Front of the boat | You bow forward |
| Stern | Back of the boat | Stern as in rear |
| Port | Left side (facing forward) | Port & left = 4 letters |
| Starboard | Right side (facing forward) | StaRboard = Right |
| Windward | The side the wind is coming from | Toward the wind |
| Leeward | The side sheltered from the wind | Lee = shelter |
| Forward / Fore | Toward the bow | â |
| Aft | Toward the stern | â |
| Abeam | At right angles to the boat's centerline | â |
Points of Sail
Listed from closest to the wind to furthest away.
| Point of Sail | Wind Angle | Sail Trim | Relative Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| In Irons (No-Go Zone) | 0-45° | N/A â sails luff | None |
| Close-Hauled | ~45° | Sails pulled in tight | Moderate |
| Close Reach | ~60-70° | Slightly eased | Moderate-Fast |
| Beam Reach | ~90° | Halfway out | Fastest |
| Broad Reach | ~120-160° | Most of the way out | Fast |
| Running | ~180° | All the way out | Moderate |
Common Sailing Commands
| Command | Meaning | When Used |
|---|---|---|
| Ready about! | Prepare to tack | Before tacking |
| Helm's alee! | The tiller is pushed to leeward â we are tacking now | Initiating the tack |
| Jibe ho! | We are jibing now | Initiating a jibe |
| Ease the sheet! | Let out the rope controlling the sail | Bearing away or depowering |
| Trim the sheet! | Pull in the rope controlling the sail | Heading up or powering up |
| Head up! | Turn toward the wind | Course correction |
| Bear away! | Turn away from the wind | Course correction |
| Stand by! | Get ready for an action | Any maneuver preparation |
| All clear! | The maneuver is complete | After tack or jibe |
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These terms and commands are standard across most English-speaking sailing communities. Regional variations exist â always confirm terminology with your skipper.