The image of a small sailboat gracefully gliding over the vast ocean waves is a powerful and captivating sight.

In contemporary times, sailing has evolved into a competitive sport, relying on the natural force of the wind acting on the sails while skillfully maneuvered by a human operator.

But how does the sailboat navigate steadily through the varying winds and waves?

In the common perception, sailing with the wind at your back seems like the easiest and most natural way to travel. In reality, however, sailing downwind is no easy feat.

This is because, in downwind conditions, the wind aligns parallel to the boat, causing the sailboat to lose lateral pressure, making it susceptible to losing balance and even capsizing.

Furthermore, if the wind is only a gentle breeze, the forward momentum of sailing downwind becomes sluggish. The light wind lacks the force required to apply the Bernoulli effect and boost the sails. On the contrary, the impact is significantly different when a strong wind is present.

Apart from sailing downwind, there are two other essential types of sailing: sidewind and upwind.

Sidewind sailing is relatively straightforward. When the wind blows from the side, the sails divide it into two forces—side-slip and forward forces.

The side-slip force is then converted into side-to-side energy by the centerboard. At the same time, the sailor adjusts the sail's center of gravity to minimize sideways pressure, ensuring that the majority propels the boat forward.

Speaking of sailing upwind, it doesn't mean sailing directly into the wind. Instead, the boat initially travels sideways, then at an angle to the wind, followed by adjustments to the sails.

During upwind sailing, the sails divide the wind into two forces—one forward and one sideways. The hull's sideways pressure and water resistance balance each other out, leaving only the forward power.

However, the boat may deviate slightly off course after covering some distance at this angle. Consequently, the technique of "zigzagging," or taking a winding path against the wind, is employed to reach the desired destination.

Regardless of whether it's downwind, upwind, or sidewind sailing, water serves as the terrain, and wind becomes the driving force.

Consequently, a wind speed exceeding 3 meters per second is typically required for races to commence in sailing competitions.

Safety protocols dictate that races are halted when the wind surpasses 20 meters per second and visibility drops below 1500 meters.

It's noteworthy that during races, athletes often enhance the boat's stability by leaning their bodies completely outside the ship, showcasing the sheer determination and beauty of this waterborne sport as they cut through the waves.