What is rebound steering and how is this adaption helpful?
Rebound Steering is a way for blind sailors to hold a straight course by feeling when the tiller is centerlined. Rebound Steering can be used for beginner sailors who aren’t as familiar with sailing, which makes it an asset for learn-to-sail programs across the globe.
Resources
Bungees are one way to achieve Rebound Steering. You can attach bungees to the tiller and each bench. When the tiller is straight, the tension in the bungees is released. As you steer farther on each side, the tension increases, allowing the sailor to feel how far away from center they are steering.
Small “tiller tabs” can also be placed at the base of the rudder where it connects to the tiller so that when the boat enters or exits centerline, a small click is made.
For more information about Rebound Steering, feel free to contact Alex Adams at cmr@clagettregatta.org with the subject line "Ask Alex."
If you have photo or video resources of rebound steering we can add to this page we would love to include them! Please email your content to cmr@clagettregatta.org.