Ships rigging terminology. Abreast Off the side, even with the boat.

Ships rigging terminology. Abaft Toward the rear of the boat, behind the boat. ” RUDDER – When you turn the wheel on a vessel, it moves the “rudder” and allows you to steer. trimmed, and controlled, as opposed to standing rigging which is a fixture. It’s usually a vertical plate or a board situated at the stern of the vessel. Mar 6, 2025 · Whether you’re a novice sailor puzzled by terms like “gaff brig” or “Bermuda cutter,” or an enthusiast eager to deepen your understanding, this Sguide will unravel the complexities of sail types and rigging configurations. Usually hoisted on a halyard on older vessels, though modern vessels often have roller furling headsails. Sailing terminology can be daunting for beginners, especially if English is not your first language. When the luff of a headsail curves to leeward instead of being straight it is said to sag. Abeam At a right angle to the length of the boat. Running rigging. Yet a boat’s rig is still dependent on some of the most ancient of mechanical devices. The basis of all rigging is the mast, which may be composed of one or many pieces of wood or metal. Accidental jibe An accidental jibe happens when the boat is steered or the wind shifts such that the stern of the boat accidentally passes through the eye Running Rigging Glossary Sailboat Rigging can be divided in to 2 categories: Standing Rigging - the wires and ropes that hold up the mast, also known as shrouds or stays. The terms are organized alphabetically for easy reference. Sag. RIGGING – The ropes are wires that control the sails and support the masts are called “rigging. Jan 19, 2024 · Excerpt from The Complete Sailor by David Seidman It’s rigging that reveals the sailboat to be the anachronism it is – a machine lost in time, and forever timeless. Rigging is divided into two classes, standing, which supports the mast (and bowsprit), and running, which controls the orientation of the sails and their degree of reefing. Spars may be of aerospace fibers, their shapes derived in a wind tunnel and supported by strands of exotic alloys. For sailing ships, rigging refers to the various ropes, cables and other devices that connect the masts and sails. , by means of which sails are hoisted. Sep 8, 2023 · Rigging comes in two forms – standing rigging, or that which is permanently fixed to the boat, and running rigging, which is the lines and other devices that can be easily removed and adjusted. The most common generic terms are sheets and halyards ALTHOUGH the masts, yards, sails, blocks, and ropes, do altogether compose what may be called the RIGGING OF A SHIP, or VESSEL; yet the mode of applying the ropes to the several other parts, and combining the whole, so as to produce the means of navigating the vessel, is likewise termed, RIGGING A VESSEL; and of rigging, in this latter sense, we are now about to treat. The standing rigging between the lower mast head and the ships side; from the topmast head and rim of the top; from the topgallantmast head and the topmast cross-trees. Jul 28, 2025 · Navigating the waters of nautical and sailing terminology can be as challenging as sailing through uncharted waters. See full list on improvesailing. Running Rigging - the ropes (and wires) that control the sails on a yacht. There are two species of Learn all about the rigging diagram of a sailing ship. Read our glossary list of the main sailing terms. Frequently Asked Questions What does rigging mean? rigging, the sails, masts, booms, yards, stays, and lines of a sailing vessel, or its cordage only. In both cases, many subcategories and technical terms are underneath the surface. to. Abreast Off the side, even with the boat. This comprehensive glossary covers essential terms and abbreviations, providing a valuable resource for both seasoned sailors and landlubbers alike. GLOSSARY OF NAUTICAL, MARINE RIGGING & SAILING TERMS A Aback Wind on the wrong side of the sails. A vessel making excessive leeway is said to sag away. Headsails is the generic term for the range of sails hoisted before the mast. Most common types are Staysails, Jibs and Spinnakers, though others do exist. Samson post. Jul 28, 2025 · For engine-powered vessels, rigging refers to the loading and securing of equipment. Sheets, halyards, topping lifts, etc. Understand the various components and their functions in this informative article. . com Get a sailor's perspective on the intricate sailing ship rigging systems that make sailing ships navigate the high seas, with insights and terminology. Where else is it still Dec 19, 2023 · New to the world of sailing? Here's our Ultimate glossary of basic nautical terms to have you sounding like a sailor. There are a large number of different terms that cover the use for which each rope is employed. The lines that do not have to be adjusted often are known as standing rigging. The lines that are adjusted to raise, lower and trim the sails are known as running rigging. mftab psnjki fwb vwoxcl hktlph kpxm zoqof wppet avarynw mbuoj