Light-Air Sailing

"When sailing in light air, boats are sensitive to changes in trim, even those made by crew moving about. Quick movements by the crew can slow the boat down, and it can take a long time to get back up to top speed, so encourage everyone to move about the deck in a catlike motion.

Tuning the Sails
Sails work efficiently only when they’re trimmed correctly for the conditions.

The jib should luff evenly. If it luffs first at the top, move your jib-sheet lead forward. If the sail luffs first at the bottom, move your jib-sheet lead aft (see "How To Get Properly Twisted," September 1998).

Make sure to ease the main boom topping lift so that it’s slack, then use the top batten as a guide to mainsail trim. It should be parallel to the boom. If it hooks to windward, ease the sail out (see "Sailing on Main Street," February 1999) or loosen the vang.

If by moving crew weight you can heel the boat to leeward, it will help the sails take their proper shape."

- Cruising World