[elhanley]

You describe three sea conditions but not the attendant winds. Light sea conditions with light or heavy winds, carry on as you say. Medium and heavy seas "left over" from a previous or distant storm may coincide with light airs, in which case you will not be able to proceed to windward and should quarter off to leeward with a thought as to where the sea room is as well as your desired destination. Heavy wind and seas, if sea room allows, straight downwind under bare poles with a drogue and storm tri to keep from swapping ends. The aim is to minimize wind speed over the deck. This is a good spot to emphasize that when bad weather impends, get a very good idea where you and the beach are.