There is an answer in David Maculay's "The Way Things Work". Unfortunately I can't seem to remember it.
A beam reach is a sailing term that refers to a point of sail where the wind is coming from the side of the boat, at a 90-degree angle. This allows the boat to sail perpendicular to the wind direction. It is considered one of the fastest and most efficient points of sail for reaching a destination quickly.
A downwind sail, such as a spinnaker or a genoa, typically travels the furthest because it is designed to catch wind from behind the boat and harness the wind's energy to propel the boat forward efficiently in downwind conditions.
The larger the area of the sail, the more lift it can generate, allowing it to support a heavier weight. The weight limit of the pilot is determined by the maximum lift that can be generated by the sail, which is influenced by factors such as wind speed, sail design, and angle of attack.
The fastest point of sail is typically downwind with the wind directly behind the boat, known as sailing "dead downwind." To optimize speed in this position, sailors can use techniques such as adjusting sail trim, using spinnaker sails, and steering a straight course to catch the most wind and maximize boat speed.
Running Before the Wind was created in 1987.
Tight against the wind and billowing before it -it depends which way you are going!
On a port tack, starboard tack, or running before the wind.
You cannot sail with the wind opposite you. If the wind is following you, that is, directly astern, then you sail 'gull winged'.
No matter how hard you, as a sailor, wish the wind to blow, it is uncontrollable.
The phrase "the wind sits in the shoulder of your sail" refers to the way the wind interacts with a sailboat’s sail, suggesting that the wind is filling the sail effectively, allowing the boat to gain speed and direction. This expression can also imply that conditions are favorable for progress or success. In a broader sense, it can symbolize having advantageous circumstances or support in achieving one's goals.
Let's say the wind is coming at you from due North. Generally speaking, you cannot sail any closer to the wind than 45 degrees on either side of it's direction. So you could sail as close to the wind as 45 degrees on a starboard tack, or 315 degrees with your sails on a port tack.
To sail against the wind, a boat has to 'tack'. This means that instead of sailing straight into the wind (which would get you nowhere) you sail in a zig-zag in the direction you intend to go. On each tack, the wind is on a different side of the sail.
Allegedly, the lateen sail design made it possible to sail closer into the wind. That is, less than 45 degrees from the direction the wind is blowing. No sail boat can sail directly into the wind. Yet.
The lateen sail increased a sailor's ability to sail effectively into the wind, rather than decreasing dependence on the wind's force. By allowing for better maneuverability and efficiency in changing wind conditions, the lateen sail revolutionized sailing techniques and made it easier to sail against the wind.
A three sided sail is known as a Lateen sail or also a triangular sail. With a four sided sail one is only able to sail against the wind, but with a Lateen sail it is possible to sail more directly into the wind.
No sailing ship can sail directly into the wind. However by rigging the sails correctly the vessel can be made to sail more closely to the wind.
Wut made ships sail in the wind was that using a persicet sail or flag will pick up the wind and will push the air out and sail..just like u swinging on a swing 