Downwind markrounding

How to round the downwindmark

When approaching the downwind mark it is really important to start in time with the preparations of the mark rounding. Make sure your trim lines are set correctly for sailing upwind. Your goal is to sail close-hauled course as soon as you pass the mark. To do so you need to start in time and you need to have room between your boat and de mark. Your turn should start on the outside, approximately 2 boat lengths of the mark, and finish on a close-hauled course almost touching the mark.
There are 4 mayor aspects to consider before making a decision about your top mark rounding. In later blogs we will discuss these in detail. The 4 aspects are:

1. Organise your boat

2. Approach the mark on a wide angle

3. Tighten the outhaul

4. Tighten the cunningham (if necessary)

5. Tighten the vang for 50%

6. Start sheeting in

7. Turn your boat

8. Sheet, sheet sheet!

9. Tighten the Vang completely

10. Sail fast and organise your boat.

Make sure you execute the steps in the same order every time you have a mark rounding. This way it will become an automatic manoeuvre!

Liked this article? Tell your friends and share this info on Facebook!

Want to learn more?

Sailing upwind technique
Also check out thefull Laser trimguide (with MKII upgrade!)