This is the only essential that is outside of the boat. Having an understanding of where

the wind is blowing from is an essential skill to learn, and forms the basis of everything

that happens aboard. The wind is reasonably constant, but as your boat changes direction,

you must always have a feel for what this means to the angle the wind is hitting your

boat.

To help you, you can use a masthead burgee which will point towards the wind. Flags ashore

are another indicator. Ripples on the water also blow from where the wind is coming from.

A flapping sail works like a flag and will lie in the same direction that the wind is

blowing.

You will not be able to point your boat directly into the wind, as the sails don’t work if

you do. The sails only start to work if you remain outside a zone which is at 45 degrees

either side of where the wind is blowing from. This zone is called the no go zone and you

should keep out of this zone to keep sailing effectively. Familiarise yourself with where

the no go zone is by looking at where the wind is blowing from, and judge 45 degrees

either side.

In addition to the wind direction, its strength is also important. You should keep a look

out for any stronger gusts of wind coming. These often appear as darker patches of water,

so you must keep an eye out for these and be prepared.