Downwind angles

[RussC]

Assuming your mark is ddw how do you determine how far off the wind will get you there quickest (non spinnaker).

 

[JoeWhite]

Usually you turn 20 degrees off the wind then jybe then 20 degrees off the wind the other side.

 

[Davidasailor26]

Ideally you’d have a polar diagram for your model boat showing boatspeed at every wind angle in each wind range. The next best thing is an instrument networked to your wind vane and speed sensor that can tell you your VMG. You can watch your VMG at various wind angles to see where it’s maximized. You can do the calculations yourself with just speed and direction information if you don’t have the instrument networking.

My guess is you’ll find that the best angle is either dead down wind wing-on-wing, or just high enough on a broad reach to keep your jib full. It might also be that you’re best off on a broad reach in calmer conditions and better wing-on-wing in heavier wind.