Bearing away is the action of steering a sailing boat away from the wind (downwind). It is the opposite of "heading up" or "luffing". This maneuver causes the boat to turn towards its leeward side, requiring the crew to ease the sails (sheet out) to maintain optimal sail trim.

Key Aspects of Bearing Away:
Steering Action: The tiller is pushed away from the sailor (towards the boom), or the wheel is turned towards the boom.

When to Use: Used to change direction toward a downwind course, to begin a jibe, or to steer away from an obstacle or another boat.

Sail Trim: As the bow moves away from the wind, the sails must be eased to prevent them from stalling and to keep the boat moving efficiently.

Synonyms: Sometimes referred to as bearing off or falling off.