Foundations of sailing

A sail does not work in isolation. Air force combines with water’s response on the hull and appendages. This chapter explains force components and relative flow through a qualitative balance diagram. Rig and sail-family lessons develop component names and the organisation of the assembly.

The example distinguishes a force contributing to forward drive from one contributing to lateral movement. Lift does not necessarily mean an upward force, and balance does not mean forces are absent. These ideas prepare you for points of sail and trim. The simplification explains relationships; it does not calculate a sailboat model’s stability, speed or capability.