Question 98 Deck General

The correct answer is A) Sheeting in the sails will allow the vessel to sail closer to the wind but will decrease speed. When the sails of a sailing vessel are properly trimmed, sheeting them in (pulling the sails closer to the centerline of the vessel) allows the boat to sail closer to the direction of the wind, known as a "closer-hauled" course. This increased angle to the wind improves the vessel's ability to sail into the wind. However, as the sails are sheeted in, the boat's speed will decrease due to increased drag and other factors. The other answer choices are incorrect, as they do not accurately describe the relationship between sail trim and vessel speed and performance.