Slant Meaning in Sailing

A slant refers to a wind direction that allows a boat to sail a desired course more efficiently or on a more favorable ‘point of sail.’ In nautical slang, having a ‘fair slant’ means the wind has shifted just enough to allow you to reach your destination without having to zigzag (tack) as much. One clear example involves a sailor finding a ‘slant of wind’ that allows them to sail directly to a distant island instead of fighting an upwind battle. It is a moment of tactical luck or good planning that saves time and effort. Understanding how to use these slants is a key part of long-distance passage making. It represents the most favorable wind angle for a specific journey.