Definition
Bearing away moves the heading further from the wind, for example from close hauled to a reach, and the sheets must be eased in step with the turn or the sails will stall and the boat will heel excessively. In strong winds the mainsheet is eased first to reduce the turning couple that resists the manoeuvre. Bearing away is often used to build speed after a tack or to open the angle for a gybe.
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