Apparent Wind Guidelines

I use a Davis Telo-Cat on my boat with adjustable tacking arms that are set out at 45 degrees on either side to match the typical close hauled course. Of course, the vane always shows an apparent wind angle significantly less than the true wind angle for any upwind course. I know that the goal for sailing downwind is to achieve 90 degrees apparent, but I don't think I have ever heard what the rule is for sailing upwind. Does anyone know what the apparent wind angles should be for close hauled and a beam reach? Would these angles be the same regardless of the wind speed?

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Leigh Huff

Hi Leigh,
I also use a windicator, but I use it as a visual aid to very quickly put the boat close to the line after a tack. From there I use the jib tells to show how high I can sail.
After the start, I pay little attention to "true wind" as you are always sailing to apparent. Well, I'm watching the directions of puffs...

As to the angles remaining the same, no. If boat speed or wind speed changes so does the apparent wind angle (at typical sailing angles).

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Todd
Hobie 21SE
Bellingham, WA