The complex interplay between the hydrodynamic and aerodynamic systems determines how a boat cruises and what performance it is capable of. In addition to the quality of the overall design of the boat, comprising the hull lines, shape of the appendages, weight and its distribution, rigging and sails, the helmsman's ability to find the ideal compromise between the smallest possible apparent wind angle and the highest possible speed is also important. The aim is to achieve a particularly high VMG (Velocity Made Good, target speed upwind), a value that is crucial for upwind optimisation.
Read all about it in the new YACHT (first day of sale 30 March).

Deputy Chief Editor YACHT