Rudderless Sailing

This video from Norman Sailing shows Optis using the sails and body weight to steer the boat. Minimizing use of the rudder is a key racing skill and the techniques apply to all light boats. See the links below for examples in a 29’er and additional tips on rudderless sailing.

Key Points

To head up:

• Sheet in main
• Ease jib
• Heel boat to leeward
• Move forward
• Lower centerboard

To bear off:

• Sheet in jib
• Ease main
• Heel boat to windward
• Move back
• Raise centerboard

Rudderless sailing in a 29’er – very cool
Rudderless Sailing – simple introduction – CFHeart
Peter Commette – more techniques (move forward/back, centerboard, torque your body)
Steering with Sails, Hull, Rudder – NS14 (applies concepts to various phases of the race)