Reach Meaning in Sailing

A reach describes any point of sail where the wind is coming from the side of the boat (roughly 90 degrees to the heading). There are ‘close reaches’ (angled toward the wind) and ‘broad reaches’ (angled away from the wind). Reaching is generally the fastest and most comfortable way to sail because the sails act as highly efficient wings. One specific example involves a boat accelerating rapidly as it turns onto a ‘beam reach’ with the wind blowing directly across the deck. Because the boat is not fighting the wind directly, it experiences less leeway and more forward drive. For many sailors, a steady reach is the ideal ‘cruising’ state. It offers the best balance of speed, stability, and ease of steering.