Definition
The vector sum of true wind and the wind of the vessel's own motion. Sailing upwind it is stronger than the true wind and drawn further forward; sailing downwind it is weaker and drawn aft, which is why running feels deceptively gentle. Example: 15 knots true on the beam with 6 knots boat speed gives roughly 16 knots apparent about 22 degrees forward of the beam. Sails are trimmed to apparent wind.
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