Sailing Ships
Written by: dreamerneon
A Sailing Ship is a water vessel which drives all, or part, of its propulsion from the force of the wind and water speed. Distinctions in size do not have strict definitions, and what comprises a Sailing Ship, a Sailboat or other small vessel varies across regions and cultures. There are many types of Sailing Ships, but the basic components are relatively the same: every Sailing Ship has a hull, rigging, and at least one mast to hold up the sails. Below are some examples:
- Catboat – a Sailing vessel which has a mast located close to its front area. Today, catboats are used mainly for day Sailing and cruising; these boats are spacious, steady, and lend themselves well to easy handling.
- Catamaran – used for sport and leisure Sailing, catamarans are multi-hulled boats joined by a frame.
- Day Sailers – relatively small sailboats without sleeping quarters, but they come with small cabins intended for storage space and a little shelter. Day sailers are stable crafts, and are sailed like small yachts.
- Ketch – a Sailing vessel which has a main mast and a mizzen mast rearward of the main one. This boat is ideal for journeys of many miles, because its additional sail gives it better balance.
- Schooner – this type of Sailing vessel has forward and rearward sails, and two or more masts, with the rear mast’s height equal to or more than the length of the one in the boat’s front section.
- Sloop – any boat that has a single mast and a headsail in addition to the mainsail.
- Trailer sailer – a small sailboat which can be moved towards different areas by the use of road trailers.
- Trailer yachts – these are suitable for yacht sailing or cruising along shorelines and inshore waters.
- Trimaran – a multi-hulled boat with a main mast and two other smaller ones.
One of the dangers of crossing the ocean by Sailing Ships is being becalmed or stranded because of lack of wind power to blow the sails; another is being shoved off course by brutal storms, or winds which blow contrary to the ship’s desired course. Precautions should be taken to avoid losing members of the crew and critical damage to the Sailing craft; also, take into consideration the amount of provisions and fresh water that the limited space within a Sailing Ship can hold.
Plan the trip carefully to ensure the safety and well-being of those aboard the Sailing vessel, and in turn, guarantee an enjoyable and relatively comfortable journey.
|
|
|
|
|
Basics & Backgrounds
Home
Print Article
Email Article
Comment on Article
Write New Article
Search Articles
