To avoid capsizing your sailboat, what should you prioritize?

Keeping the sail trimmed properly is crucial for maintaining the stability of a sailboat and preventing capsizing. Proper sail trim helps in optimizing the angle of the sails to the wind, which allows the boat to harness the wind effectively. This ensures that the sailboat maintains a balanced sail, reducing heeling (the angle at which the boat leans to one side). If the sail is trimmed incorrectly, it can generate too much power, causing excessive heeling that may lead to capsizing.

While other factors like weight distribution and the boat's position relative to shore play a role in overall safety and stability, improper sail trim can directly and immediately impact the boat's performance. A well-trimmed sail aids in control and helps to avoid sudden shifts that could compromise balance, making sail trimming a top priority for safe sailing.