sailing

/

Principal parts of a sloop-rigged sailboat. A single mast is mounted forward of the keel and …—© Merriam-Webster Inc.

Sport or pastime of racing or cruising a sailboat or yacht. A modern yacht (from a Dutch word meaning “ship for chasing”) is a sailboat used for racing. In the 17th century Dutch royalty sailed early yachts for pleasure; Charles II brought the sport to England. Organized yacht racing on the Thames began in the mid-18th century. In North America yachting began with the Dutch in New York in the 17th century. The first U.S. yacht clubs were founded in the mid-19th century. Sailboat races are held over two kinds of courses, point-to-point and closed. Yacht racing has been part of the Olympic Games since 1900. The America's Cup is the preeminent prize in yachting.

Seen & Heard

What made you look up sailing? Please tell us what you were reading, watching or discussing that led you here.