Independent guide: Rig types are described in general terms. Individual designs vary.
Quick answer
Most Australian yachts are sloops: one mast, one headsail. Sloops are either masthead (forestay to the top of the mast) or fractional (forestay below the top). A cutter adds an inner forestay for a staysail. A ketch or yawl adds a second, smaller mizzen mast aft. Rig type decides how the mast is supported, how it is tuned, which components need inspecting and what rigging services cost.
The main rig types
| Rig | Arrangement | Common on | Rigging notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Masthead sloop | Forestay to masthead, large headsail | Older cruisers, many production boats | Backstay controls forestay; simpler tuning |
| Fractional sloop | Forestay below masthead, larger main | Modern cruisers, racers, catamarans | Swept spreaders, mast bend, sometimes runners |
| Cutter | Two headsails on two forestays | Bluewater cruisers | Inner forestay tang, runners |
| Ketch | Main mast plus mizzen forward of the rudder post | Classic and bluewater cruisers | Two rigs to maintain; triatic stay |
| Yawl | Small mizzen aft of the rudder post | Classic yachts | As ketch, smaller mizzen |
| Catamaran rig | Fractional, deck-stepped, no backstay | Cruising catamarans | Bridle, high shroud loads — see catamarans |
| Unstayed / rotating | Freestanding or rotating wing mast | Dinghies, trimarans | Mast-base and rotation fittings — see trimarans |
Why rig type matters for maintenance
- More stays, more terminals. Cutters, ketches and swept-spreader rigs have more components to inspect and replace.
- Adjustable stays. Runners and checkstays wear faster and add winches and blocks.
- Swept spreaders mean shrouds support the mast fore-and-aft; shroud and chainplate condition is critical.
- No backstay on many catamarans and modern cruisers changes how forestay tension is set — see rig tuning.
Rig type and cost
A re-rig quote reflects the number of stays and terminals, spreader sets and adjustable systems. Two boats of the same length can have very different rig costs. See rigging costs.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a masthead and a fractional rig?
On a masthead rig the forestay attaches at the top of the mast, giving a large headsail and a relatively small mainsail. On a fractional rig the forestay attaches below the masthead, typically at around seven-eighths or less of the height, giving a larger mainsail and allowing mast bend to be used to shape the main.
What is the most common rig on Australian yachts?
The sloop — one mast and one headsail — is by far the most common, in both masthead and fractional forms. Cutters and ketches are more common among bluewater and older cruising yachts.
Common questions
- How do I respond to a dismasting?
After a dismasting, account for everyone on board and treat injuries first, then stop the wreckage holing the hull. Secure the rig alongside if it can be controlled, or cut it away if it is holing the vessel. Protect the propeller before using the engine, then assess flooding, communicate your situation and only then consider recovery.