On a trip last summer, I made a crewmate angry as he was firmly affixed to the pulpit working on a jam in the furler in some heavy weather and swell. I had done something with regards to my orientation to the waves that ticked gave him quite a ride up there.

I try to orient the boat about 45 degrees off the directly into the waves to smooth out the movement of the boat. I don't remember specifically what I had done, perhaps just headed up, but it made him mad.

What is the proper orientation of a boat in big seas to keep your guy on the bow safe?

Having spent a year in the seminary, I know its important to protect the man in the pulpit.

When not racing, I run off at 45 degrees. This minimizes wind, load on the sail that always is fighting the bow person, and smooths the motion.

But if you're racing and can't take this approach, I have no idea.