Five
Sailing Terminology and Concepts Boom
Pole to which the bottom edge of the mainsail attaches.
Boom Vang
Apparatus that keeps downward tension on the boom to help keep mainsail full.
Boom Topping Lift
Apparatus that keeps the boom level when the mainsail is unfurled.
Heeling
Takes place at higher speeds when a sailboat rides almost on its side.
Helm
Steering wheel on a sailboat.
Keel
Similar to power boat keel except it is larger and looks like a fin. Counteracts wind.
Leeward
Pronounced “looward”. The side of the boat that is opposite the side facing the wind. Protected side.
Windward
The side of the boat from which the wind comes. The side facing the wind.
Rigging
The lines and hardware used to trim sails to permit sailing.
Standing Rigging
Stationary rigging such as the mast. Not adjustable.
Running Rigging
Adjustable rigging that changes the trim of the sails.
Mainsail
The biggest, or main sail on a vessel.
Head sail
Smaller sail on a boat. Sits forward of the main mast. Not attached to the boom.
Jib
Head sail that sits forward of the mast.
Genoa
Head sail that can sit in front of and extend to just behind the mast.
Jibe
To turn the stern of your boat through the wind.
Mast
Standing rigging to which the mainsail attaches.
Stays
Support lines that hold the mast upright and secure.
Spreaders
Supports perpendicular to the mast that keep the mainsail full.
Main halyard
The rigging used to hoist up the mainsail.
Tack (v.)
To tack is to turn the bow of your boat through the wind.
Tack (n.)
Your course.
Furl
To roll up or pack up the sails.
Unfurl
To unroll, unpack, or deploy the sails.
Reefing lines
Rigging used to decrease size of the mainsail to lower speed of the vessel.
Point of sail
The direction of a boat relative to the wind. See chart in this guide.
Trimming sails
Adjusting sails to allow for most effective performance based on wind.
