Crossword Genius

Afflict on board, but leaves shore (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sails

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'leaves shore' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with motion as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'afflict on board' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'afflict' could be 'ail' (synonyms) and 'ail' is present in the answer.
'on board' could be 'ss' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'ss' is found within the leftover letters.
No letters remain.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'but' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sails that I've seen before include "Navigates" , "Ship's canvas" , "Goes by sea" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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