The wind is your engine. Understanding how to harness it separates the fresh spawns from the true captains.
Your primary tool for navigation is the Wind Indicator Orb located near your minimap. Unlike standard walking where you click and move at a constant speed, Sailing momentum is entirely dependent on the wind's direction relative to your hull.
The wind in Gielinor is dynamic. It shifts every 100 game ticks (1 minute). A skilled captain anticipates these shifts by watching the "Forecast Arrow" – a smaller, secondary arrow on the orb that predicts the next wind change. Ignoring this mechanic can leave you "in irons" (dead stopped) when the wind suddenly shifts 180 degrees.
Visual representation of wind angles relative to ship heading.
When you need to travel upwind, you must "tack" - sailing in a zigzag pattern to keep the wind at a favorable angle.
Sailing straight into the wind results in 0-10% speed. ETA: 10 mins.
Zigzagging keeps you in the Yellow Zone (70% speed). ETA: 4 mins.
Always aim to keep the wind at roughly a 45-degree angle to your ship when sailing against it. This maintains momentum while making progress toward your destination.
New captains only look at the current wind. Pro captains look at the small "Next Wind" arrow to start turning before the wind changes.
Don't change course for every small wind shift. Turning consumes game ticks and slows momentum. Only tack when you are about to enter the Red Zone.
Mahogany hulls are tanky but slow to turn. For mapping and wind training, always use a Lightweight Hull (Sloop/Caravel) to tack faster.