How to Heave-To

[@gonesailing]

Thanks very much for your helpful videos. In terms of the tiller / rudder can I ask if you have the rudder hard up against the stern of your sailboat or the tiller just enough “to the main” to counteract the boat moving from the wind. Ian

[@SpinnakerSailingSF]

Good question. The tiller usually ends up parallel to the stern. Then you can tie it off or wedge something under it or along side it to keep it in place. Thanks for asking!

[@gonesailing]

Thank you, I very much appreciate your helpful reply. 😊

[@SpinnakerSailingSF]

I'd like to amend that answer. Where the tiller ends up positioned can vary on the conditions. It's really not totally parallel to the stern. More like between 20 and 10 degrees of the stern. Remember, we want the boat to think it needs to turn. So, it will depend on the strength of the wind on your backwinded jib. You may also need to take into account the strength and direction of the current... if you are in an area with currents. Depending on the direction, the current may force your bow over and the wind wont hold the heave to. if this happens, sail on a bit and tack into a heave to in the opposite direction. Cheers

[@gonesailing]

Very much appreciate your insightful reply. Thanks from a beginner sailor!