Tailwind – that’s every sailor’s dream, right?
A big sail, wind from behind, and the boat glides forward effortlessly. That’s what most people imagine when they think of sailing: the wind pushing you straight to your destination.

And yes – with a large foresail like a genoa or a colorful gennaker, you can pick up a lot of speed with the wind at your back.
But here’s the twist: That’s not actually the fastest way to sail.

💨 Wind direction is not the same as speed

Sailing boats don’t just get pushed along like a leaf in the wind. They use the wind like an airplane uses airflow – to generate lift.
And here’s where it gets surprising:
The closer you sail into the wind (without heading directly into it), the faster and more efficient you can be.

🧠 Why? It’s all about low pressure – the aerodynamic trick

When the wind hits the sail from the side or at a sharp angle from the front, the sail acts like a vertical airplane wing.

On the outer (leeward) side of the sail, the wind flows faster.

On the inner (windward) side, it flows slower.

According to the Bernoulli Principle:

Fast airflow = lower pressure

Slow airflow = higher pressure

➡️ This difference creates lift – not upwards like an airplane, but sideways and slightly forward.

Thanks to the keel, that sideways force gets turned into forward motion.
So yes: you can actually sail fast, even when heading toward the wind at an angle.

⛵ What’s the fastest point of sail? Around 40–45° to the wind

This is called “close hauled” or “sailing upwind.”

You can’t sail directly into the wind (the “no-go zone” of ~30°).

But if you sail at a sharp angle and zigzag (tack) toward your destination,
you’ll need less distance and get there faster – if your boat handles it well.

🚀 What makes a boat good at sailing upwind?

Not all boats are created equal when it comes to “pointing high” (sailing close to the wind). Key features:

Slim hull design

Deep, efficient keel (like a T-keel)

Balanced rig and high aspect-ratio sails (tall and narrow)

Low weight, high stiffness

These boats don’t just survive upwind – they fly upwind.

🏁 The two fastest 32-foot sailboats upwind?

Based on performance data, race results, and expert opinion, these two 32-footers are at the top of the game:

1. JPK 1010 (France)

Famous for offshore racing success

Light, strong, and points high with excellent speed

Multiple wins in races like the Fastnet

2. Italia Yachts 9.98 Fuoriserie (Italy)

Sleek, powerful racer with precise handling

Combines upwind sharpness with great downwind speed

A favorite in competitive IRC and ORC racing fleets

⚓ But What If You Want Comfort Over Competition?

Not everyone dreams of spray in the face and tacking drills. If you’re looking for smooth cruising, space, and easy handling, here are two outstanding comfortable alternatives in the same size class:

🛋️ 1. Hanse 315

German-built cruiser with sleek, modern lines

Self-tacking jib for easy single-handed sailing

Spacious, bright interior with real liveaboard comfort

Great for coastal cruising with friends or family

🌊 2. Dufour 32

French style with a focus on smart design and ergonomics

Twin wheels, large cockpit, and a roomy interior

Good upwind performance for a cruiser, but focused on relaxation and usability

Optional grill and lounging area at the stern – yes, really!

🚤 So, What’s Best for You?

If you love speed, angles, and racing strategy → go for the JPK or Italia Yachts.

If you prefer comfort, elegance, and simplicity at sea → the Hanse 315 or Dufour 32 might be your perfect match.

No matter your style, one thing remains true:
Understanding the wind – especially how to use it upwind – makes you a better, faster, and more confident sailor.