In weathercocking, what does the bow do?

• A. Turns away from wind
• B. Bow turns into wind
• C. Sails sideways
• D. Keeps heading constant

Answer: (B)

Weathercocking is the tendency of a kayak to yaw so the bow points into the wind when there’s a crosswind or when steering input is minimal. The wind pushes on the hull and creates a turning moment that rotates the kayak toward the wind, so the forward end ends up facing into the wind, like a weather vane. This happens because the lateral force from the wind creates a torque about the boat’s center, and without enough steering to counter it, the simplest equilibrium is with the bow facing the wind. To maintain your desired heading in practice, you counter this with edging, braces, or rudder input.