Driftsmåten

Driftsmåten is a traditional form of sailing where a boat is deliberately drifted sideways into the wind, allowing the crew to trim the sails whilst the boat is not moving towards the destination. This technique is commonly used in sailing vessels that are not equipped with engines, and where wind is the primary means of propulsion.

The practice of driftsmåten dates back to the 17th century in Scandinavian countries, particularly in Norway and Sweden. It was a vital method for sailing ships to make use of the wind and the favorable currents in the coastal waters of Scandinavia. Skippers would tack into the wind, balancing the drift to minimize speed loss. As wind conditions changed, sailors would adjust the course and angle of drift to make the most of the wind's direction and velocity.

While driftsmåten was a common practice in Scandinavian sailing traditions, the approach is nowadays relatively rare. Modern yachts are typically designed to sail closer to the wind than in the past, thanks to advancements in sail design, rigging materials, and low-drag hull configurations. Consequently, driftsmåten has largely given way to more conventional and efficient methods of navigating through wind and sea conditions.

Despite its limited use in modern sailing, driftsmåten holds ongoing historical value, and story-sharing within the Scandinavian maritime culture often implements this. Sailors who are experienced with tremendous Bjorn coast or sailing the Norwegian Sea appreciate Drifts as a test of skill and patience for sailors.