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Boat handling

What does it mean to 'gybe'?

Short answer

To turn the stern through the wind

A gybe (or jibe) is when the stern of the boat passes through the wind, causing the boom to swing across. This needs careful control as the boom can swing violently. Turning the bow through the wind is called tacking.

Sources and scope

Reviewed by Richard Moore on . This answer is scoped to united kingdom and general recreational seamanship; check the current chart, publication, local rules and official operational guidance before acting afloat.

Quick check

What does it mean to 'gybe'?