You have to take several factors (e.g. speedbonus of the mates) into consideration. Besides the wind direction and the wind force (see the wind rose à “m”) the sail is significant. Especially if you sail against the wind, you should take care not to fight under full sails against the wind. If the the wind direction is inclement, what means it comes direct or sloping from front, you should gain speed, what means change your course and go under full sails with the wind (build up momentum) and then set your old course again under half sails. In practice this technique looks like an oval: sail under full sails WITH the wind and then, at the vertex (here you set your old course), lower your sails.
The distance and the needed time can be recorded with an easy guideline. Important about it is:
Per 100 nautical miles at 10 knots you need about 10 minutes (real time).
The one who sails faster reaches his goal faster, logically. But how can you sail faster?
Some factors which influence speed:
- Maximum speed of the fleet - the fleet’s slowest ship gives the maximum speed of the whole fleet + mate’s speed bonus
- Free navigation skill points - you should always take care, that at least 1 navigation skill point leaves free
- Wind force and wind direction - the stronger the wind, the faster you can sail
- Water level - the shallower the water, the faster you can sail
- Ship condition - the better the condition, the faster you can sail
- Ship’s cargo - the more free cargo room, the faster you can sail
