Cruising Sailboat - Rig
The Rig is the collective term which refers to the Mast, Standing Rigging, spars, and the type and number of Sails by which the type is determined. For instance, a Rig with a Bermudan sloop is called a Bermudan sloop Rig.
This is the unit which propels the Cruising Sailboat. It is the structure which derives energy from the Wind. Rigs have many parts and variations. In this section, know the different elements that make up the Rig:
- Mainsail and Sails
The type of Rig lies on the number of Sails and the type of Mainsail. The Bermudan Mainsail is the commonly used type.
- Parts
Cruising Sailboats can have different layouts of Standing Rigging, Running Rigging, and Sails. Here are the components of Rigs:
- Standing Rigging - a system of wires which holds the Mast up
- Forestay - a wire or rope which holds the Mast forward and aft; works with the Backstay
- Backstay - a wire running from the masthead to the stern
- Shroud - a wire or rope which supports the Mast up and gives additional support by increasing the angle created by the Spreader and the Mast at the attachment point
- Spreader - supports the Mast and keeps the Shrouds away from the Mast
- Running Rigging - collective term for all Lines (Halyards, Sheets) that raise, lower, and control the Sails
- Halyard - a line or rope which raises or pulls up the sail
- Mainsheet - a line or rope which controls the Mainsail's angle
As mentioned earlier, Rigging and Sails are very important in Cruising, for they are the ones that drive the boat. Know the components of Rigs as well as their functions so that boat handling will be easier and enjoyable.
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