A sailing course is the direction a boat is steered relative to the wind or a compass heading, known as its points of sail. Common courses include close-hauled (into the wind), beam reach (wind from the side), broad reach (wind from behind), and running (directly downwind). It defines the path taken to reach a destination.

Key Types of Sailing Courses (Points of Sail)
Close-Hauled (Beating): Sailing as close to the wind as possible, typically within of the wind direction.

Close Reach: Sailing between close-hauled and a beam reach.

Beam Reach: Sailing with the wind coming directly over the side (90°), often the fastest point of sail.

Broad Reach: Sailing with the wind coming from behind the side (90°).

Running (Downwind): Sailing directly downwind with the wind behind the boat.

No-Go Zone: The area directly into the wind where a sailboat cannot effectively sail.