Helm Commands and Crew Responses

Question 1

Heading Up

Answer 1

To steer more toward the wind.

Question 2

Bearing Away

Answer 2

To turn the boat away from the wind, fall off.

Question 3

Ready About

Answer 3

The command used to signal to the crew to prepare to tack. Crew responds by beginning preparations responds “Ready.”

Question 4

Helms a-Lee, Coming About, or Tacking

Answer 4

Helm command when tacking. Helmsman pushes the tiller smoothly to leeward to initiate the turn.

Question 5

Prepare to Jibe

Answer 5

Helmsman command to alert the crew to ready for a jibe. Crew prepares to jibe and when ready replies with “Ready.”