What is the term for the boat's tendency to bear away from the wind on its own?

What is the term for the boat's tendency to bear away from the wind on its own?

• A. Fore aft helm
• B. Lee helm
• C. Weather helm
• D. Steady helm

Answer: (B)

The term that describes the boat's tendency to bear away from the wind on its own is known as "lee helm." When a boat has lee helm, it means that the boat has a natural inclination to turn away from the wind direction, causing it to steer itself downwind. This can be due to various factors including the design of the hull, the placement of weight, and sail configuration. In practical sailing situations, a boat with lee helm may require the helmsman to apply more effort to keep the boat on course while sailing upwind, as the natural tendency of the boat is to head off downwind. Recognizing the presence of lee helm is crucial for maintaining efficient sailing, as too much lee helm can lead to a loss of control. Understanding this concept helps sailors adjust their sail trim and weight distribution to correct for this tendency and improve their sailing performance.

The term that describes the boat's tendency to bear away from the wind on its own is known as "lee helm." When a boat has lee helm, it means that the boat has a natural inclination to turn away from the wind direction, causing it to steer itself downwind. This can be due to various factors including the design of the hull, the placement of weight, and sail configuration.

In practical sailing situations, a boat with lee helm may require the helmsman to apply more effort to keep the boat on course while sailing upwind, as the natural tendency of the boat is to head off downwind. Recognizing the presence of lee helm is crucial for maintaining efficient sailing, as too much lee helm can lead to a loss of control.

Understanding this concept helps sailors adjust their sail trim and weight distribution to correct for this tendency and improve their sailing performance.