Simplified Sailing

As you can see, you can sail anywhere but into the wind ( closer than about 30 degrees). Start by letting out the main sheet (the line that controls the main sail) until the sail luffs (flogs). Next, pull it in until the sail fills, keeping the tiller straight, you should move foreword. It won't take much to get going, remember, don't pull the sails too tight, this will slow you down. This is over simplified, but will get you going, the next step is learning the art of sailing. Some tips to remember: When in doubt, let it out, stay on the high side, hold on, and if you have a "sailor" with you, they may not really know the right way. I found it is best if you can go alone in a small boat to learn how to make it move the first few times, this will let you do what you know instead of what someone is trying to tell you. No one know how to teach one to feel the wind and boat working together, and everyone is still learning, even the rockstars of sailing. The most important thing is make sure it is fun.
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