Which maneuver involves pushing the boom forward on the turning side and holding the tiller in the same direction to get out of irons?

• A. Backing the main
• B. Backing the jib
• C. Pushing the boom aft
• D. Easing the sheets

Answer: (A)

When a boat is in irons, your aim is to create a turning moment with the sails so the bow can swing away from the wind and you can regain forward motion. Backing the main does this effectively. By pushing the boom forward on the turning side, you set the main to back the wind on the opposite side, which pushes the stern toward that side and helps rotate the boat out of irons. Keeping the tiller in the same direction as the turn maintains the steering so the bow swings away from the wind and you can drive out of the stuck position.

This works because the main sail, when backed, creates a reversing force that, combined with the rudder, facilitates turning away from the wind. Easing the sheets simply reduces power and won’t generate the needed turning moment. Backing the jib can help in some boats, but the described maneuver specifically uses the main to recover from irons, making it the most reliable method in this scenario.