beam reach

In sailing, a "beam reach" is one of the most efficient and stable points of sail, providing a good balance between speed and control.

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Definition

C1Sailing

(technical)A sailing position where the wind blows directly onto the side of the vessel, perpendicular to its direction of travel.

Example

  • We maintained a beam reach to make the most of the steady wind.
  • Sailing on a beam reach, the boat moved swiftly and smoothly across the water.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "beam reach":

back beamspring beamclose reachrange lightbalance beamreach pastbroad reachreach forlaser beam