What is the appropriate action to take when heading into strong gusts?

Heading into the wind is the appropriate action when navigating through strong gusts. This technique, known as "heaving to," helps in maintaining better control of the vessel and reduces the stress on both the sails and the rigging. When you point the bow directly into the wind, the sails are effectively depowered, alleviating excessive heeling and potential damage to the boat or the crew.

This position allows the boat to handle the unpredictable nature of gusts, giving the crew the opportunity to assess the situation, adjust sails, or even execute other maneuvers safely. It also minimizes the risk of being knocked down or having the boat overwhelmed by the wind.

The other actions, while they may seem practical, do not provide the same level of control or security in such conditions. Turning away from the wind can lead to being caught off-guard by stronger gusts or uncomfortable broaching. Dropping sails may be necessary in extreme situations but doesn't offer the immediate control needed as a first response. Increasing speed can be counterproductive in gusty conditions, making the boat harder to control and more likely to broach.