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Sail Trim and Balance Seminar

  • Monday, July 27, 2026
  • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Baltimore's Downtown Sailing Center (Liberty Room)
  • 9

Registration

  • Consider joining as a crew level member! Benefits include a discount on courses like this and participation in member sailing events.

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Sail Trim & Balance Seminar

Get more out of every sail.

Have you ever wondered why some boats seem to move faster, point higher, or feel more balanced - even when they are sailing in the same conditions? Most sailors leave performance on the table because their sails are trimmed for the conditions.

This seminar digs into the mechanics of how sails actually work - and how to use your boat's controls to get the most out of them.

You'll Learn:

  • Twist, draft, and angle of attack - what they are and how they affect boat speed and handling
  • How and when to adjust your outhaul, backstay, cunningham, and jib cars
  • Sail trim techniques for light air, moderate breeze, and heavy wind
  • How to recognize and correct common trim mistakes
  • Practical adjustments you can apply immediately on your next sail

Whether you're a newer sailor building confidence, an experienced sailor looking to refine your technique, a racer, or a cruiser, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of sail shape and a toolkit of skills that will make every outing more enjoyable and effective.

Bring your questions!

Note that this isn't a racing tactics seminar, though many of the concepts can be translated to racing.

About the Presenter

Capt. Harish Neelakandan is a US Sailing Certified Performance Sailing Instructor with extensive experience teaching, coaching, and mentoring sailors of all skill levels. An active racer and accomplished instructor, Harish combines technical expertise with practical, real-world sailing knowledge and experience.

Location

The seminar will be held in the Liberty Room, located on the 3rd floor of the brick building along Key Highway. Registered participants will receive building entry instructions by email on the day of the event.

Please review our FAQ page for additional information, including our cancellation policy.

Questions? Contact us at info@downtownsailing.org.

Full payment is required to reserve your spot. Space is limited.