Adjusting Sail Depth

by Capt. Barnacle
©  (Al Darbyson)

©
 
Loose Forestay
A loose forestay will increase the sag and depth of the sail making it rounder. This will make it easier to steer, however you won't be able to point as high.
A looser forestay is desirable for choppy seas or light air.


More Depth with a rounder entry

Tight Forestay
A tight forestay creates a flatter sail with fine entry.
This is used when wishing to point high in medium and heavy airs.


Flatter sail with finer entry