Wind Direction and Wind Speed for Dummies

As any sailor will tell you, wind is more than just a gentle breeze on a sunny day; it’s a vital force that guides your course on the open water.
Whether you’re a novice setting sail for the first time or an experienced mariner looking for a refresher, this article will help you understand the fundamentals of wind.

“When sea-gulls fly to land, a storm is at hand”

What does wind direction mean?

Wind direction refers to the direction from which the wind is coming. A north wind means the wind is coming from the north.

For sailors, it’s easy to get confused because when we talk about water currents, it’s all about where it’s heading. Usually, we say something like “northbound current.”

Understanding the Wind’s Point of Origin

The wind’s point of origin precisely indicates the direction from which the wind is coming.

What is windward?

When the boat is positioned with its bow directly facing the wind’s eye, it is said to be windward.

A sailboat cannot sail directly into the wind, and the sails will flutter vigorously if there’s even a light breeze.

Wind Speed In the United States, wind speed is typically measured in miles per hour (mph). However, wind speed is often given in different units, so we may need to convert it accordingly.