Lying-to:
It is a very simple matter to lay a fore-and-aft vessel to. But in the first place you should find out in reasonably good weather what sail she will lie-to best under. Knowing this, snug her down to it before bringing her head to it. The best sail is that nearest amidships; but some boats require more after canvas and some more forward. No rule can be laid down, each vessel in this respect being peculiar to itself. When ready, watch your seas until after a big one has past you; get a smooth, then put your helm down easily and bring her to with a long sweep. The amount of sail she wants is enough to keep her just moving ahead, so that there will be steerageway and no more. Use plenty of oil while rounding to and afterwards, if the seas are cresting and breaking.