Shorter-keeled, lighter craft Because this type of yacht reacts more quickly to helm movements it is often possible to steer rapidly off the wind as the boat comes to the crest of each wave. This will stop her plunging straight over the top, falling into the trough and pounding. Pounding not only jars the crew’s teeth and increases risk of structural damage, it also slows the boat badly. If she is
sailing powerfully, she can be luffed slightly above her best course without losing too much way as she climbs the back of the next wave. This process gives a mean course of closehauled, or a touch below. It’s effective but tiring. Sailing on autopilot, of course, no such sophistication will be available, so if this is your choice try to reduce the pounding by not pointing too high.
By bearing away after she breasts each wave, a light boat can build up sufficient speed to deal with the next one.
