What is the best way to prevent capsizing while under sail?

Keeping the sails trimmed correctly is the best way to prevent capsizing while under sail. Proper sail trim ensures that the sails are efficiently harnessing the wind's power, allowing the boat to maintain stability and control. When the sails are adjusted correctly, the boat is less likely to heel excessively to one side, which can lead to capsizing.

A well-trimmed sail helps balance the forces acting on the boat, allowing it to sail more smoothly and reducing the risk of being overpowered by strong winds. If the sails are trimmed too tightly or too loosely, it can result in poor handling and increased heeling, which increases the likelihood of capsizing.

Other options, while they may sound prudent, do not effectively address the primary issue of sail handling. For example, sailing near the shore might provide some safety but does not prevent capsizing caused by improper sail management. Reducing the number of passengers or only sailing in calm waters might help in specific scenarios, but they are not practical solutions for managing the fundamental dynamics of sailing and do not substitute for correctly trimmed sails.