What Does Heeling Mean In Sailing?

Heeling is a term used to describe when a sailboat leans over to either side (port or starboard) in the water by the excess force of the wind. It is normal and counterbalanced by the sailboat’s keel. To avoid excessive rotation of the hull around its longitudinal axis on a yacht, it is important to understand that heeling torques can be caused primarily by the underwater hull shape of the boat when it heels.

Heeling can occur naturally or deliberately, with proper heeling enabling a sailboat to travel faster. However, it is crucial to consider how far a 22-foot sailboat can heel over so far that the sails lose all wind, causing the boat to reduce its heel and gain its wind back.

Heeling is primarily caused by the force of wind on the sails, although it can also be caused by weight such as crew or excess cargo. In this class, we will be referring to heeling as a result of the force of wind on the sails. The heeling of a sailboat or yacht, i.e., the inclination to the side, is normal within certain limits, depending on the type and nature of the boat.

When a sailboat heels over, the wind pressure on the sails decreases because the sails present a smaller area. This means adjusting the power coming from the sails, such as adjusting the amount of power coming from the sails. Once the boat is fully powered up, sailing a constant heel angle through puffs and lulls is a faster and more comfortable way to helm.

In conclusion, heeling is a natural and essential aspect of sailing, and it is crucial to control and reduce it to maintain stability and comfort.