Question 78Deck General70% to pass
You are sailing on a close reach when a strong wind suddenly heels the vessel hard over. Which action should you take to reduce the heeling and yet maintain speed?
AI Explanation
The correct answer is B) Ease the mainsheet and bear more away from the wind.
When a vessel heels over sharply in a strong wind, easing the mainsheet will allow the mainsail to luff and dump the excess wind, reducing the heeling moment and stabilizing the boat. Bearing away from the wind slightly will also help reduce the heeling by changing the angle of attack of the sails. This maintains speed while reducing the dangerous heeling.
The other options are incorrect because: A) Easing all sheets would cause a complete loss of power and control. C) Hauling in the mainsheet would increase the heeling moment. D) Easing the jib sheet alone would not be enough to counteract the heeling from the mainsail.
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