The act of intentionally stopping a sailboat’s forward motion while maintaining steerage is a fundamental sailing maneuver. It involves specific sail and rudder adjustments to achieve a stable, near-stationary state. An example includes sheeting the jib to windward while maintaining a close-hauled mainsail, counteracting the forces and creating a balanced equilibrium.
This technique offers several advantages, including providing a temporary respite from heavy weather, allowing for navigation planning, facilitating meal preparation, or enabling crew rest without anchoring. Historically, it has been crucial for survival at sea, offering a controlled method to weather storms and await improved conditions. Its application minimizes drift and provides a relatively stable platform.
