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Anatomy of a Yacht Rig
Select a component to see what it does and where it sits in the load path. A schematic masthead sloop — arrangements vary between designers.
Schematic masthead sloop · 11 components · arrangements vary between designers
Component 1 of 11
Masthead
The top of the mast, where the forestay, backstay, cap shrouds and main halyard sheaves converge. Inspect fittings, fasteners, antennas and navigation lights — the ends of fittings often matter more than their broad flat surfaces.
Every component, in one list
- Masthead
- The top of the mast, where the forestay, backstay, cap shrouds and main halyard sheaves converge. Inspect fittings, fasteners, antennas and navigation lights — the ends of fittings often matter more than their broad flat surfaces.
- Forestay
- A stay supporting the mast forward, often also carrying a headsail or furler. On a furling yacht much of its length is hidden inside the foil, which is one reason forestay condition is easy to miss.
- Backstay
- A stay supporting the mast aft. It may be fixed or adjustable. Depending on rig design, a backstay adjuster can increase forestay tension and alter mast bend and sail shape.
- Spreader
- A spar projecting from the mast to increase the effective shroud angle. Inspect spreader roots for cracking and movement, and tips for seizing, chafe protection and shroud alignment.
- Cap shroud
- A principal lateral stay generally running from deck to the upper mast or masthead via spreaders. Some reduction in leeward tension can occur under sail, but excessive slack may point to tuning, stretch or structural issues.
- Mast
- A structural spar carrying compression and bending loads from sails, shrouds, stays and rig controls. Look for corrosion, cracking, distortion, loose fittings, fastener problems and water traps.
- Boom
- The horizontal spar attached to the mast that supports and controls the mainsail foot. Check the gooseneck, vang attachment, outhaul, reefing hardware and internal line runs.
- Gooseneck
- The articulated fitting connecting the boom to the mast. Wear, elongated holes and fastener problems here are common and easy to see once you know to look.
- Turnbuckle
- An adjustable threaded fitting used to change standing-rigging length and tension. Check for seized threads, bent bodies, correct locking devices and free articulation at the toggle below.
- Chainplate
- A structural fitting that transfers stay or shroud load into the hull. Movement, sealant deterioration and deck-penetration details can allow water to enter, and the wire can be sound while the chainplate is compromised.
- Mast step
- The fitting or structure supporting the lower end of the mast. On keel-stepped rigs the surrounding partners at deck level matter just as much. Corrosion and water traps are the usual findings.