At the same time, however, I find if diffcult to support references to the true wind when discussing sail trim amongst the on-board crew of a moving boat. I just want to know how the wind is hitting my sail cloth, regardless of my speed through the water. If we say we're on a board reach (with reference to true wind), then I need to work out my boat speed & direction & true wind speed before I can tell if my trim/steering is correct. If on the other hand, we say board reach (reference to apparent), then I know all I need to know to adjust sails/course for max performance.
But there are different terms to talk about in terms of air flow over the sails. THOSE terms don't care what the true wind is doing and accomplish what you are referring to. The sail is stalled, luffing, pinched....the boat is high, low, etc. We need to fall off or come up...No?
