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The clock

A clock is needed to keep track of
how many hours [they] have traveled with a certain wind
and to determine how many miles [they have covered] per hour.
If it is night and they have entered the open sea,
they will calculate where they have ended up,
and how far they are from the coast.
At night, they travel with more awareness
and they adjust the sails in light winds.

When the winds are against them,
they tack to the right and to the left
so they do not lose their way forward.
Because as long as you're not losing [ground], you're gaining,
until prevailing winds come along again.
When the sea darkens you'll be very lucky
to find a harbor or to turn back,
lest you be wrecked.

Of the eight [winds], five are not too strong;
they are favorable everywhere.
But the three others are unfavorable for entering harbors;
great experience and competence are required.
Sailors who do not pay attention
often lose their ships and rigging.
He who knows how to enter [the port] jousts with fate;
he throws the anchor and saves the ship.