nearly the whole force of the wind is at first spent in heeling her over, and she may capsize unless she gathers way quickly. Consequently, when sailing under the lee of a vessel, one should be ready to let go the sheets in a moment. For the boat will probably have the wind taken out of her sails when she is passing the vessel; and the moment she has got clear of it, her steerage-way almost lost, the wind will suddenly give her a knock-down blow while she is in this helpless condition; so that, unless one is ready to slack up sheets promptly, over the boat will go.
Sail and mast should be lowered before coming alongside a vessel to board her.
When running before the wind in rough water it is advisable not to bring the wind directly aft, as the boat's yawing may cause an accidental jibe. It is better to sail for some distance with the wind on one quarter, then to jibe and sail with the wind on the other quarter.
A beam sea is of course the most dangerous. If compelled to sail with the sea abeam, bear away before the bigger seas. If the sea is very heavy it is best not to attempt to sail with the wind abeam. One can fetch one's destination by running before wind and sea for awhile, and then luffing up in a smooth and sailing close-hauled, and so on alternately.
Jibe with great care, hauling the boom inboard as you put the helm up. Remember that when the
