Critical to upwind speed is prompt steering adjustment to wind changes as this video demonstrates

What are 10 signs in Sailing that may indicate you may need to change course to optimise speed when sailing upwind ?
Here are 10 signs indicating you might need to change course while sailing upwind to optimize speed:
1. Increased Heel: When the boat heels excessively, it can create drag and reduce speed. A more moderate heel angle helps the sails work efficiently. Adjusting your course can help find a better balance between speed and stability.
2. Luffing Sails: If your sails start to luff, it means they are losing their aerodynamic shape. This typically happens when you’re sailing too close to the wind. By changing course slightly away from the wind, you can fill the sails again, increasing speed.
3. Decreased Speed: A noticeable drop in speed can be a sign that your angle to the wind is not optimal. If you’re not moving as quickly as you should, consider altering your course to find a better wind angle.
4. Wind Shifts: Wind direction can change due to various factors such as terrain or weather patterns. If you notice a shift, adjusting your course can help you sail more effectively in the new wind direction, keeping you in the most favorable conditions.
5. Sail Trim Issues: If you’ve trimmed your sails as best as you can but still feel they are not performing well (either too tight or too loose), it may indicate that your angle to the wind isn’t ideal. Changing course can allow you to achieve a better sail shape and improved speed.
6. Rudder Feedback: Excessive pressure on the rudder suggests that you may be trying to hold a course that’s not optimal. If the rudder feels heavy or requires significant effort to steer, a slight course adjustment can reduce drag and improve responsiveness.
7. Leeway: When a boat drifts sideways while sailing upwind (leeway), it can slow down progress. If you notice significant leeway, adjusting your heading slightly can help you sail a more effective course, reducing sideways drift and improving overall speed.
8. Tide and Current Effects: Strong tides or currents can negatively impact your speed. If you notice the current pushing you off course, altering your heading to counteract these effects can help maintain speed and efficiency.
9. Boat Balance: A well-balanced boat is crucial for optimal sailing. If the boat feels sluggish or is not responding well to helm inputs, consider changing your course to achieve better balance, which can help improve speed and maneuverability.
10. Relative speed and direction to other boats: Observations of other boats can provide valuable insights into your boat’s performance. If you notice that your boat is not moving well or feels off particularly when compared to boats nearby , it’s worth reassessing your course to see if a change can enhance performance.
By keeping an eye on these indicators, you can make informed decisions to optimize your upwind sailing speed. Regularly adjusting your course based on these signs will lead to more efficient and faster sailing