How To Read Leylines In Sailing?

Laylines are imaginary lines that extend outward from each windward or leeward mark, representing the course sailed by a boat. They represent the most efficient way of reaching your destination, given presentwind conditions. To make a layline call, look at the angles of other boats and watch boats on the opposite tack. The easiest way to make a layline call is by looking down the centerline of boats on the opposite tack as you cross behind them near the layline.

Laylines represent the most efficient way of reaching your destination, given the presentwind conditions. By sailing along your target, you can maximize your velocity made. In sailing, laylines are imaginary dotted pathways on the water that show the course a boat would sail to fetch the mark. Practice in various conditions to learn your boat’s tacking angles, use a compass, and record the differences in headings between tacks. To get an accurate reading, make sure you are sailing in the groove (not pinching, footing, or going slow) before and after the tack.

To identify laylines, use your tacking angle and sight along your tacking lines to identify when you are on the layline. If you have one of these tools, use a hand-bearing compass. Laylines are invisible but important for sailors to navigate around the windward mark. BG chartplotters calculate and display laylines on the chart for the ultimate in navigational accuracy. Approaching the layline in a tight fleet can be a make-or-break moment for the rounding order and ultimately, the outcome of the race.