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A Guide to the Different Parts of a Sailboat

Table of Contents

Last Updated on November 29, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

When you use Boatsetter, you have the opportunity to choose from a myriad of different sailboat rentals from all over the United States and beyond . A sailboat is a perfect way to relax on the water, either on a solo adventure or on an excursion with friends and family.

When you rent a sailboat with Boatsetter, you will have the option to book a captained sailboat to enjoy your day out on the water or book bareboat to hone your sailing skills. Either way, you may be interested in the intricacies of a sailboat and its different parts. If this sounds like you, you have come to the right place. In this article, we go in-depth about the different parts of a sailboat so that you can be more knowledgeable about whatever boat you may choose and come away from reading this feeling more confident about the whole sailing experience.

A basic sailboat is composed of at least 12 parts: the hull , the keel , the rudder , the mast, the mainsail, the boom, the kicking strap (boom vang), the topping lift, the jib, the spinnaker, the genoa, the backstay, and the forestay. Read all the way through for the definition of each sailboat part and to know how they work.

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In short, the hull is the watertight body of the ship or boat. There are different types of hulls that a sailboat may have, and these different hulls will often affect the speed and stability of the boat.

Displacement Hulls

Most sailboats have displacement hulls , like round bottom hulls, which move through the water by pushing water aside and are designed to cut through the water with very little propulsion. The reason these are called displacement hulls is that if you lower the boat into the water, some of the water moves out of the way to adjust for the boat, and if you could weigh the displayed water, you would find that it equals the weight of the boat, and that weight is the boat’s displacement. One thing to know about displacement hulls is that boats with these hulls are usually limited to slower speeds.

Planing Hull

Another type of hull is a planing hull. These hulls are designed to rise and glide on top of the water when enough power is supplied. When there is not enough power behind the boat, these boats often act as displacement hulls, such as when a boat is at rest. However, they climb to the surface of the water as they begin to move faster. Unlike the round bottom displacement hulls, these planing hulls will often have flat or v-shaped bottoms. These are very common with motor-driven water vessels, such as pontoon boats, but they can also be found on smaller sailboats which allow them to glide quickly over the water.

Finally, sailboats can differ depending on the number of hulls that they have. There are three options: monohulls (one hull), catamarans (two hulls), and trimarans (three hulls).

Monohulls , which have only a single hull, will usually be the typical round bottom displacement hull or occasionally the flat bottomed or v-shaped planning hull. Catamarans have two hulls with a deck or a trampoline in between, with the extra hulls providing increased stability. Finally, trimarans have three hulls — a main hull in the middle and two side hulls used for stability. These trimarans have gained popularity because of their excellent stability and ability to go at high speeds.

When evaluating a sailboat , it is important to pay attention to the type of hull that the boat has because the type of hull a sailboat has can drastically change the sailing experience, especially when it comes to stability and speed.

All sailboats have a keel, a flat blade sticking down into the water from the sailboat’s hull bottom. It has several functions: it provides counterbalance, life, controls sideways movement, holds the boat’s ballast , and helps prevent the boat from capsizing. When a boat leans from one side to the other, the keel and its ballast counteract the movement and prevent the boat from completely tipping over.

As with hulls, there are a number of different types of keels, though the two most common types of keels on recreational sailboats are the full keel or the fin keel. A full keel is larger than a fin keel and is much more stable. The full keel is generally half or more of the length of the sailboat. However, it is much slower than the fin keel. A fin keel, which is smaller than the full keel, offers less water resistance and therefore affords higher speeds.

A more recent feature on sailboats is the “winged keel,” which is short and shallow but carries a lot of weight in two “wings” that run sideways from the keel’s main part. Another more recent invention in sailing is the concept of the canting keels, which are designed to move the weight at the bottom of the sailboat to the upwind side. This invention allows the boat to carry more sails.

The Rudder

A rudder is the primary control surface used to steer a sailboat. A rudder is a vertical blade that is either attached to the flat surface of the boat’s stern (the back of the boat) or under the boat. The rudder works by deflecting water flow. When the person steering the boat turns the rudder, the water strikes it with increased force on one side and decreased force on the other, turning the boat in the direction of lower pressure.

On most smaller sailboats, the helmsman — the person steering the boat — uses a “ tiller ” to turn the rudder. The “tiller” is a stick made of wood or some type of metal attached to the top of the rudder. However, larger boats will generally use a wheel to steer the rudder since it provides greater leverage for turning the rudder, necessary for larger boats’ weight and water resistance.

The mast of a sailboat is a tall vertical pole that supports the sails. Larger ships often have multiple masts. The different types of masts are as follows:

(1) The Foremast — This is the first mast near the bow (front) of the boat, and it is the mast that is before the mainmast.

(2) The Mainmast — This is the tallest mast, usually located near the ship’s center.

(3) The Mizzen mast — This is the third mast closest to the stern (back), immediately in the back of the mainmast. It is always shorter than the mainmast and is typically shorter than the foremast.

The Main Sail

The mainsail is the principal sail on a sailboat, and it is set on the backside of the mainmast. It is the main source that propels the boat windward.

A boom is a spar (a pole made of wood or some other type of lightweight metal) along the bottom of a fore-and-aft rigged sail, which greatly improves the control of the angle and the shape of the sail, making it an indispensable tool for the navigation of the boat by controlling the sailes. The boom’s primary action is to keep the foot (bottom) of the sail flatter when the sail angle is away from the centerline of the sailboat.

The Kicking Strap (Boom Vang)

The boom vang is the line or piston system on a sailboat used to exert a downward force on the boom, enabling one to control the sail’s shape. The vang typically runs from the base of the mast to a point about a third of the way out the boom. It holds the boom down, enabling it to flatten the mainsail.

The Topping Lift

The topping lift is a line that is a part of the rigging on a sailboat, which applies an upward force on a spar (a pole) or a boom. Topping lifts are also used to hold a boom up when it’s sail is lowered. This line runs from the free end of the boom forward to the top of the mast. The line may run over a block at the top of the mast and down the deck to allow it to be adjusted.

A jib is a triangular staysail set ahead of the foremost mast of a sailboat. Its tack is fixed to the bowsprit, the bow, or the deck between the bowsprit and the foremost mast. Jibs and spinnakers are the two main types of headsails on modern boats.

The Spinnaker

A spinnaker is a type of sail designed specifically for sailing off the wind from a reaching downwind course. The spinnaker fills up with wind and balloons out in front of the sailboat when it is deployed. This maneuver is called “flying.” The spinnaker is constructed of very lightweight material, such a nylon fabric and on many sailing vessels, it is very brightly colored.

Another name for the spinnaker is the “chute” because it often resembles a parachute, both in the material it is constructed from and its appearance when it is full of wind.

People often use the term genoa and jib as if they were the same thing, but there is a marked difference between these two types of sails. A job is no larger than a foretriangle, the triangular area formed by the mast, the deck or bowsprit, and the forestay. On the other hand, a genoa is larger than the jib, with part of the sail going past the mast and overlapping the mainsail. These two sails, however, serve very similar purposes.

The Backstay

The backstay is a standing rigging that runs from the mast to the transom (the vertical section at the back of the boat), counteracting the forestay and the jib. The backstay is an important sail trip, control and directly affects the mainsail’s shape and the headsail.

There are two general categories of backstays:

1) A permanent backstay is attached to the top of the mast and may or may not be readily adjustable.

2) A running backstay is attached about two-thirds up the mast and sometimes at multiple locations along the mast. Most modern sailboats will have a permanent backstay, and some will have permanent backstays combined with a running backstay.

The Forestay

A forestay is a piece of standing rigging that keeps the mast from falling backward. It is attached at the very top of the mast, or at certain points near the top of the mast, with the other end of the forestay being attached to the bow (the front of the boat). Often a sail, such as a jib or a genoa, is attached to the forestay.

A forestay might be made from stainless steel wire, stainless steel rod or carbon rod, or galvanized wire or natural fibers.

Parts of a sail

Sails are vital for sailboats, made up of complex parts that improve performance and maneuverability. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the different parts of that make up the sails.

Luff – The luff is a vertical sail part that maintains its shape and generates lift by interacting with the wind. It attaches securely with a bolt rope or luff tape for easy hoisting.

Leech – The leech controls air flow and reduces turbulence. Battens or leech lines are used to maintain shape and prevent fluttering.

Foot – The foot of a sail connects the luff and leech at the bottom edge. It helps define the sail’s shape and area. The outhaul is used to adjust its tension and shape.

Head – The sail’s head is where the luff and leech meet. It has a reinforced section for attaching the halyard to raise the sail.

Battens -The b attens are placed horizontally in sail pockets to maintain shape and optimize performance in varying wind conditions. They provide structural support from luff to leech.

Telltales – Sailors use telltales to adjust sail trim and ensure optimal performance.

Clew – The clew is important for shaping the sail and connecting the sheet, which regulates the angle and tension, producing energy. It’s located at the lower back corner of the sail.

Sailing is a favorite pastime for millions of Americans across the country. For some, there is nothing better than gliding across the water propelled by nothing more than the natural force of the wind alone. For both experienced and non-experienced sailors alike, Boatsetter is the perfect place to get your ideal sailboat rental from the mouthwatering Florida keys to the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean .

Smaller sailing boats are perfect for a single day out on the water, either by yourself or with friends and family. In comparison, larger sailing boats and sailing yachts can allow you days of luxury on longer excursions full of adventure and luxury.

Whatever your sailing dreams are, it is always good to know, for both the experienced sailor and the novice, all about the sailboat’s different parts. In this article, we learned all about the boat’s hull, the keel, the rudder, the mast, the mainsail, the boom, the kicking strap (boom vang), the topping lift, the jib, the spinnaker, the genoa, the backstay, and the forestay, which make up the basic parts of any sailboat you might find yourself on.

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Illustrated Guide to Sailboat Parts [Updated 2023]

The lingo of sailing is baffling to many newcomers. While the actual sailing is pretty easy, it’s hard to wrap your mind around the bookwork when it seems like every little thing on a boat goes by its own nautical term.

Here are a few names for parts of a sailboat that you might not have thought about before. For even more nautical word play, check out our complete guide to sailing terms .

Parts of Sailboat Hulls

The boat’s hull is its main body. Most are made of fiberglass, but there are a few aluminum sailboat models out there too. Wood is more traditional but more difficult to maintain than these modern alternatives. Sailboat hulls are displacement hulls, which means they sit low in the water and move relatively slowly. The hull’s job is to displace water, so you stay afloat!

Bow The forward “pointy end” of the boat.

Stern The rear end of the boat.

Transom If the stern of a boat has a flat section, it is called the transom. (I wrote about it in detail here: What Is the Transom on a Boat )

Canoe Stern or Double-Ender Some boats lack a transom; instead, their stern comes to a point like a bow. This is a “double ender” or a canoe stern.

Port and Starboard Sides Port is the left side, and starboard is the right side.

Freeboard This is the height of the sides of the boat above the water.

Deck The upper portion of the boat that you walk on.

Sheer Sheer is the curve of the deck when viewed from the side. Some boats have none, and some boats have a lot.

Cabin Coach Roof Most sailboats have a raised coach roof on top of the cabin area.

Bottom of a Sailboat – Keels and Things

There are tons of parts on a sailboat that you only ever see if it’s out of the water. Boats are hauled out at boatyards by giant cranes, or a special machine called a travel lift .

Keel The boat’s keel is the underwater feature that counters the effects of wind pressure on the sails. It keeps the boat from tipping over, but it also keeps the boat going in a straight line as it moves through the water. If a boat has no keel, the wind will push it downwind.

A keel is heavy–it is weighted with thousands of pounds of ballast (usually lead). So when someone refers to a “keelboat,” they mean that it is a big boat with a weighted keel built for cruising. The built-in weight of a keel keeps the boat from capsizing. Also, the water flow over the curved surface of the keel helps the boat sail into the wind.

Smaller boats with centerboards or daggerboards are on the opposite end of the spectrum from keelboats. These aren’t weighted and could tip over (capsize) in the wrong conditions.

Types of Keels

Full Keel A classic and time-tested design, full keel boats are favorites among passage-making and ocean-crossing cruisers. They’re stable and comfortable at sea and very safe. However, they have a reputation for being slow compared to more modern designs.

Modified Full Keel The modification is a cut-away forefoot. That means it looks like a full keel, but there isn’t as much keel up near the bow. This reduces the underwater “wetted surface area” and makes the design a little bit faster while preserving the other good things about full keel designs.

Fin Keel The fin keel looks like a shark’s fin pointed downward. Some are narrow and very deep, while others are longer and shallow. Fin keels are bolted to the bottom of an otherwise flat-looking hull design. The fin has a foil shape that creates a lifting force as water flows over it. In addition to its ballasted weight, this opposes the sails and leeway. Most modern sailboats have some version of a fin keel.

Bulb Keel The ballast should be placed as low as possible to lower the boat’s center of gravity. The bulb keel is a fin keel with a lead bulb added to the bottom. The bulb has an efficient shape, making it more efficient than just the fin alone.

Wing Keel Like a bulb, a wing keel works by adding more weight and hydrodynamic force to the bottom of the keel. As a result, the wings look like a little airplane mounted on the bottom of a fin keel.

Swing Keel A swing keel is a fin that pivots up and into the boat, meaning that you can have a very shallow draft when you are docking or anchoring but also a very deep draft when you are sailing in open waters. This heavy keel requires a powerful and complicated electric or hydraulic-electric system.

Lifting Keel A lifting keel is similar to a swing keel, only the keel lifts up into the hull vertically.

Bilge Keels A bilge keel boat has two fin keels mounted at 45-degree angles below the hull. The advantage is that the boat can “dry out.” This makes them very popular in harbors around England, where the massive tidal range means that the harbor is only mud for half the day.

Centerboard Centerboards look like swing keels, but the “keel” part is just a board. It isn’t weighted with lead or iron, so it doesn’t change the ballast of the boat any. They are often found on smaller sailboats like sailing dinghies, but there are also large cruising boats that have full keels or long-fin keels with centerboards, too.

Daggerboard A daggerboard is like a centerboard, only it doesn’t swing. Instead, it goes straight up and down like a dagger into its sheath. They’re not only common on very small sailing dinghies but also large cruising catamarans.

Canting Keel Canting keels are some of the latest technology items in racing, so they aren’t found on cruising boats yet. They move from side to side, allowing the crew to precisely control the forces made by the keel.

Types of Rudders – What Steers a Sailboat

As with keels, you’ll see various types of rudders on sailboats. The rudder is one of the most critical parts of a sailboat’s equipment, so the differences in rudders are mostly about how protected it is from damage.

Rudder The rudder is the thing that steers the sailboat. It’s mounted on the back of the boat, sometimes looking a bit like a second keel. When the operator turns the steering wheel or tiller, it moves the rudder one way or the other. That, in turn, turns the yacht’s bow left or right.

Transom-Hung Rudder The most basic type of rudder is hung on the transom. It’s usually controlled with a tiller instead of a wheel. You can see a transom-hung rudder above the water.

Keel-Mounted Rudder On a full keel boat, the rudder will be mounted on the back edge of the keel. This protects it completely from damage since anything the boat might hit will hit the keel first.

Skeg-Mounted Rudder The rudder might be mounted to a skeg if a boat has a fin keel. A skeg is a small fixed surface that holds the rudder and supports it. In the case of a full skeg, it also protects the rudder as a full keel would.

Spade Rudder Spade rudders have no skeg, so the entire underwater surface moves when you turn the wheel. Most modern yachts have spade rudders because they are incredibly effective. They are easily damaged, however, which is why some offshore sailors still prefer skeg-hung rudders.

Bottom of Sail Boat – Running Gear

Running gear is the generic name given to all equipment under the boat that connects to the engine and moves the boat under power. It consists of the propeller, prop shaft, and supports.

Propeller Also called the prop or screw, the prop is what converts the engine power into thrust. The water flow over its blades creates a pushing force that moves the boat. Since the sailboat doesn’t use the propeller when it is sailing, sailboats often have folding or feathering props that stop moving.

Prop Shaft The metal shaft that connects the engine to the propeller is called the prop shaft.

Cutlass Bearing Where the prop shaft exits the hull, a rubber cutlass bearing keeps it centered and rotating freely.

Saildrive A saildrive is a common arrangement on modern sailboats that uses a vertical drive leg with the propeller. The saildrive installs on the back of the engine and includes the transmission. It’s like the lower unit of an outboard motor, but you cannot raise it out of the water.

Up Top – Types of Sailboat Designs

Aft Cockpit The “classic” design of the modern sailboat, if there is such a thing, is called the aft cockpit. This layout has the cockpit in the rear-most section of the hull, behind the cabin.

Center Cockpit The center cockpit sailboat has the cockpit closer to the mast. That leaves a lot of space in the rear of the hull for a huge stateroom. This design means that the cockpit will be closer to the boat’s center, making handling easier. But it is also higher, making more windage and motion at sea.

Pilot House A pilot house sailboat has a second helm inside a protected area. These are popular in colder climates, where the pilot house provides a warm place to steer the boat from. The rear cockpit is usually smaller than a typical aft cockpit, but it’s still where the sail handling occurs. A pilot house has a raised level, so the salon typically surrounds the interior helm to utilize that space and visibility when not underway.

Deck Salon Like a pilot house, a deck salon has big windows and better visibility than a typical sailboat cabin. But it lacks a true interior helm. Many, however, have nav stations with forward visibility and autopilot controls, making it a comfortable place to sit and keep watch during a passage.

Flush Deck Most sailboats have a raised coach roof where the interior cabin is. But some designers make their decks flush with the sides of the boat, making a wide open deck that is easy to move around on.

On Deck Sailboat Components – Sailboat Front

The deck of a sailboat is all about safety at sea. Most modern cruising boats are rigged such that there are few things you might need to go “out on deck” or “go forward” for. Instead, these things are rigged back to the cockpit, so you can stay safe and dry while doing your thing.

Since the wet pitching deck of a sailboat at sea is tricky, many of the things you’ll find there are safety-related.

Handholds Places to grab should be located all over the boat, so there’s never a risk of not having something to hold onto to stabilize yourself.

Lifelines Lifelines run the perimeter of the boat and provide a last-ditch safety device. You can grab them, and they should be high enough that they’ll keep you from going overboard.

Stantions The stands that lifelines attach to.

Bow Pulpit The solid rail around the front of the boat provides a safe handhold and a starting point for the lifelines.

Stern Pushpit The same, but on the stern of the boat.

Bulwarks The raised edges of the deck on the sides so that you can’t slip overboard on accident.

No-Skid Decks In areas where people will be walking, the deck is treated with a special product to make the deck “no-skid.” That way, it isn’t slippery, even when wet.

Harness Sailing harnesses are designed to clip onto the boat and keep a sailor onboard even if the boat takes a huge wave or the sailor slips. The harness is the staple of offshore safety.

Jack Lines Jack lines are temporary lines secured on the deck where sailors can attach their harnesses.

Safety Rails Many boats also have extra rails and handholds located in spots where sailors might work on deck, like around the base of the mast.

At the bow of the sailboat, you’ll find her ground tackle.

Bowsprit The bowsprit is the spar that extends from the deck forward of the bow. They’re used on sailboats to gain more sail area since getting the sail farther forward means you can fit a bigger sail. Some have just a spar, while others have a bow platform that is part of the deck.

Ground Tackle The generic word for the anchor, chain, and all the equipment needed to use it.

Anchor The anchor is “the hook” that digs into the seabed and keeps the boat in the same place. Anchors are safety devices since they allow you to stop in shallow water. But they also provide access to areas with no marinas since you can anchor offshore and go in on your dinghy.

Windlass A winch that pulls up the anchor and chain. They can be manual, with a handle, or electric, with a button.

Anchor Rode The generic name for the anchor line. It can be a chain or rope.

Snubber A short length of rope that attaches to the chain to secure it to the boat.

Cleat A horn-shaped piece of deck hardware used to secure a line or rope.

Dorade A large vent opening on the deck of a boat which is designed to let air in but not water.

Hatch Hatches are upward-facing windows that you can open to increase ventilation in the cabin.

Locker A generic term for a cabinet or compartment on a boat.

Going Aloft – Basic Boat Parts of a Sailing Rig

The rig of a boat is the mast and all of its associated parts. If you’re wondering about the many different kinds of rigs that are out there, check out our rundown on sailing terms . There you’ll find definitions for boats with just one mast or multiple masts, like sloop rig and what a boat with two sails in front might be called. It’s a cutter, if you’re wondering.

Spar A generic name for a mast, boom, or any other long pole used to hold a sail. It can be wood or metal or vertical or horizontal.

Mast A vertical spar upon which a sail is hoisted.

Boom A horizontal pole that holds a sail and gives it shape.

Standing Rigging The wires or rope that holds the mast upright.

Stay Standing rigging that goes fore to aft. The head stay runs from the masthead to the bow, and the backstay runs from the masthead to the stern.

Shroud Standing rigging that goes to the sides of the boat. From the masthead to each side runs a cap shroud. Some masts also have intermediate and lower shrouds.

Running Rigging All lines that are used for sail handling are called running rigging.

Halyard A halyard hoists a sail to the top. Each halyard is named for the sail it hoists, i.e., main halyard, jib halyard, spinnaker halyard.

Sheet The sheet controls the sail. If you ease the sheet, the sail is loosened. If you winch the sheet in, it is tightened. Like all running rigging, each sheet is named for the sail it controls, i.e., main sheet, jib sheet, etc.

Traveler If a sail has a boom, the traveler can be used to adjust it from side to side. The sheet is attached to the traveler. Most main sail travelers are located near or in the cockpit.

Gooseneck Fitting The articulating attachment that holds a boom on a mast.

Topping Lift A line that holds the rear end of a boom up. It runs from the masthead to the boom.

Vang A control line pulls the boom down and puts pressure on the sail to keep it flatter. Large boats may have hydraulic or solid vangs.

Blocks The rest of the world would call this a pulley, but sailors call it a block.

Fairleads Deck organizers that keep the lines tidy and running in the direction they should go on deck.

Furler Wraps the sail around the stay so that it doesn’t not have to be raised and lowered each time. Instead, you pull on the sheet and the sail unrolls or “unfurls.”

On Deck – Back of Sailboat

On most boats, the cockpit is located at the back.

Cockpit The main operations center and party central on a sailboat. This is where the skipper sits at the helm, and the linesmen control the sheets.

Coaming The cockpit is protected from waves and splashes by the coaming, the tall walls that enclose it. It also makes the cockpit safe since you are unlikely to get swept overboard from here.

Lazarette The main storage locker in the cockpit.

Helm The station where the skipper steers the boat from.

Tiller If a boat doesn’t have a wheel, it will have a tiller. A tiller is just a handle connected to the rudder, and the skipper pushes or pulls it to steer. Even if a boat has a wheel, it probably has an emergency tiller in case the steering system breaks.

Winch Winches provide a mechanical advantage to make it easier to haul in lines. In the cockpit, all the sheets have winches.

Rope Clutch A clutch locks a rope in place so it can be taken off a winch, even when loaded.

Jammer A jammer does the same as a clutch, but it’s a simpler device found on smaller boats.

Weathervane Steering A weathervane is used to steer the boat like an autopilot but uses wind direction and mechanical linkages. As a result, they use no power and never complain about their workload. They mount on the stern of the boat and are controlled by simple lines to the cockpit. Windvanes are often referred to by their brand name, i.e., Monitor or Hydrovane

Davits Arms on the back of the boat that lift the dinghy or tender.

Swim Platform A flat area on the transom that allows you easy access in and out of the water. A standard feature on newer boats but not on older ones that just had long swim ladders.

Catamaran Sailboat Parts Explained

For the most part, the components of a catamaran share the same terms and labels that they would on a monohull. Cats often have a few extra features with other names, however.

Hulls A catamaran is made with two hulls connected together. Each hull has an interior, just like a monohull sailboat does. The cabins and heads are usually located in the hulls, and sometimes the galley is also down below.

Owner’s Version A catamaran layout that is made for private owners. Usually, one hull will be dedicated to the owner’s stateroom with a private door, a huge head with a walk-in shower, and a large berth.

Charter Version It has more staterooms and heads than an owner’s version does. Usually, a charter cat has at least two staterooms and heads in each hull.

Bridge Deck The deck connects the two hulls, which usually has the salon and cockpit. If the design is “galley up,” the galley will be on the bridgedeck with the salon.

Cockpit Just like on a monohull, the cockpit is the operations center. But catamarans have huge cockpits, and there is usually a large outdoor dining table and entertainment area as well.

Forward Cockpit Some designs have lounge seating forward of the salon on the bridgedeck.

Flybridge Some designs have the main helm mounted on top of the salon on an upper level. It’s almost the catamaran equivalent of a center cockpit.

Trampolines Forward of the salon, the bridge deck stops, and a trampoline connects the hulls over the water. This is a great place to hang out, but it’s an integral safety feature for a catamaran. The trampolines allow any water to immediately drain away, not weighing the boat down on the bow. This prevents a pitchpole when a boat capsizes by tipping forward into the water.

Cross Beam and Dolphin Striker Since there is no center bow to mount the head stay and foresail, catamarans use a cross beam that connects the hull. A piece of rigging keeps this in place, and it’s called the dolphin striker. No dolphins were hurt in the rigging of these boats, however.

Anchor Bridle Instead of a single snubber line on the anchor, catamarans use a wide bridle that connects each hull bow to the anchor line.

Parts of a Sail Boat FAQs

What are parts of a sailboat called.

Sailing is a challenging hobby, and one reason it’s so difficult for beginners is because every part of a sailboat has its own name. From each wire and rope to every piece of deck hardware, a beginner must learn the basics before they can even start.

What is the front part of a sailboat called?

The front part of a sailboat is called the bow. Many boats also have a spar extending forward of the hull, called the bowsprit.

What are the 5 basic parts of every sailboat?

Every sailboat has at least these five parts, but most boats have many more. Hull Keel Rudder Rigging Sails

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

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The $tingy Sailor

Diy trailerable sailboat restoration and improvement without throwing your budget overboard.

The 6 Best Sources for Sailboat Parts and Supplies

This blog is big on saving money while doing restoration and improvement projects. I’ve literally saved a boat load of money by doing almost all projects myself, buying gently used parts, and shopping for bargains online. As of the time I wrote this post, I’ve saved over $10,000 compared to the suggested retail price of the parts and supplies that I actually used. If that sounds incredibly high, consider Chip Ford who has spent over $40,000 on his C-22 and is now trying to sell it. Boy, I hope he doesn’t have regrets. Good luck, Chip!

Even though I’ve saved 72 percent on average off of retail prices, that also means that I’ve spent a lot of money on the projects you read about here. You can do the math to estimate how much I’ve spent. It’s actually slightly higher than that because I’ve made some minor improvements that have no corresponding savings. So to me, being stingy doesn’t mean being cheap or a miser. If I were truly cheap, I wouldn’t have a boat at all! It just means not paying more than I have to.

In some of the posts here, particularly those that use specialized parts, I mention the sources of the parts and supplies that I used, but in most posts I do not. That’s primarily because in most cases, you can buy the parts and supplies from multiple sources.

Most skippers have their favorite sources for parts. You probably do too and so do I. But if you’re new to sailboat restoration and improvement or just to certain types of projects (such as canvas or electrical), you might be wondering what are the best sources. If that’s you, the following list will give you a jump-start on finding what you need at the best prices.

This is my favorite sources list. These sources are where I’ve actually spent the most money. I’ll give a short description of the types of parts and supplies that I buy there and why. When I buy new retail parts and supplies, I usually try to group as many items together from the same source to take advantage of free shipping offers or to lower the shipping cost of each item.

Understand that this list is very subjective. It’s based almost entirely on the lowest prices. These sources do not necessarily have the best choice of every type of part, the best customer service, return policy, lowest shipping costs, etc. Also, these are general parts sources, not specialists for things like rope, wiring, canvas, wood parts, and so on. I’ve also made many one-time purchases from other suppliers. If there’s enough interest, I might write a separate post about specialty suppliers.

So without further ado, I present a countdown of my 6 favorite sources of parts and supplies in classic Tonight Show ascending order:

What boat owner doesn’t know about West Marine ? Their biggest advantage is that there’s probably a store near you. Second is they carry just about everything you could ever want. Their prices are usually the highest that you’ll find for most items but they hold frequent sales (usually during the holidays) on popular items like life jackets, electronics, and maintenance supplies that make them worth considering sometimes. For their best prices, watch their website home page for Fantastic Friday sale items each week.

One thing that I can wholeheartedly recommend buying from West Marine is rope. Once or twice per year, they put all bulk rope on sale around 40% off for one day. That beats everybody else by far and you can buy top quality rope for less than even lower quality brands. I’ve bought all my running rigging this way and saved hundreds of dollars.

For sailing gear, I’ve found that it works best to order items online and take advantage of the free shipping to my nearest store. I get a phone call the following Friday telling me that my order is in and I can go pick it up without worrying whether the items I need (or enough of them) are on the shelves.

The stores are run by knowledgeable, experienced, and friendly staff in my experience. I shop there when I can’t wait for shipping from online retailers, I just need a few fasteners to finish a project, or if I only need one or two items and the extra shipping costs to order them elsewhere cancel out the price savings. For example, when I ran out of varnish for my exterior teak restoration project , I bought more from West Marine instead of waiting for delivery from the east coast.

Plus, I like to support my local store a little to help make sure they’re around in the future. They benefit the local economy and provide a valuable service to the local boating community. It’s also about the only place in my area to see and try electronics like a GPS, chart plotter, or VHF radio before buying.

Sign up for the Silver (free) or Gold ($24/yr.) level of their West Advantage Rewards program and you can earn points back for qualifying purchases and receive other benefits.

Nautos USA is the US distributor for Nautos Industria Metalurgica Ltda, a manufacturer of sailboat hardware and accessories in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. In my opinion, they make products that are every bit as good as their American-made competitors but at a fraction of the price. If you’re tempted to buy Chinese hardware because of the price, buy Brazilian instead. I’ve been very happy with the quality and they have a surprisingly broad choice of products. For some items, you can find more technical information to help make your selection on the Nautos factory website .

I purchased all the blocks for my lines led aft and cruising spinnaker projects from Nautos as well as some other hardware. Shipping from their warehouse in Florida has always been fast and their customer service is excellent. They recently introduced free shipping on orders of $50 or more. Download their PDF catalog and subscribe to their newsletter to hear about upcoming sales, which are often 20% off everything online. They also offer many of the same items in their eBay store .

If you need of any parts or accessories that are popular and common to both sailboats and motor boats, Wholesale Marine offers attractive prices. They also stock sailing-specific gear from Ronstan and Barton Marine. Although their selection isn’t large, they’re a good place to go for basic items. For example, when I did my complete rewiring project, I especially appreciated that they sell Ancor marine grade wire by the foot and connectors by the piece and don’t force you to buy more than you need. They too have an eBay store where you can sometimes find extra bargains.

An even better source for electrical supplies only is GenuineDealz.com .

Second only to West Marine in promoting their own brand, Jamestown Distributors is an old school chandlery that caters especially to boat builders. Their prices aren’t as low as some others, but their selection of raw materials and building supplies is unmatched. For example, when I refinished my swing keel , JD had all the supplies that I needed so I could place one order with free shipping, something none of the other suppliers could match. If you’re uneasy about mixing and matching products like resins, paints, primers, and adhesives, you’ll appreciate JD’s own TotalBoat line of products that all come with free shipping.

Like West Marine, JD promotes customer education through their many product demonstration videos and how-to articles. Their website is perhaps the most powerful of all the major retailers in that you can narrow down your search using multiple criteria such as by type, brand, size, price, and rating. The JD print catalog is great for wintertime project planning and seeing some good craftsmanship.

Defender has an excellent selection of general marine parts and supplies including sailing hardware from Andersen, Harken, Lewmar, Ronstan, Schaefer, and Samson ropes. They offer good prices and frequent sales but do not offer free shipping no matter the size of the order. Their customer service has been good in my experience, such as when I placed a special order for mounting parts for my Raymarine autopilot . Their website is relatively easy to use even though it requires you to drill down through category levels. Sign up for their email list to receive sale notices and for their print catalog, which makes good browsing material while you’re um…on the captain’s chair.

By the way, though not as economical as Sailrite , Defender is an alternate source for Sunbrella canvas.

If I know exactly what I need and can find new parts at auction or Buy It Now prices, the cost is usually lower than even the online retailers. There are exceptions, though. Some dishonest sellers list items at higher than retail prices, sometimes much higher. Or they will try to entice you with an extremely low listing price and hope you don’t notice the ludicrous shipping price that more than makes up for the difference.

Secret confessions of an eBay sniper

I try not to pay more than 60% of retail for used parts unless it’s something very rare. For used parts, it’s most important to know how to recognize excessive wear from normal use, what’s acceptable and you can refurbish, and what’s not acceptable and you should pass up. For that, it pays to do your homework in advance with online research.

For rare parts, you have to be patient and wait for listings to appear. I use search alerts extensively so that I’m notified by email when a part I’ve been waiting for pops up. If I’m lucky, it has a reasonable Buy It Now price and I’ll buy it immediately. If it’s an auction listing, I’ll try to snipe it in the last 10 seconds of the auction. Sometimes I lose, but I often win and lock out other bidders.

If you’re not already an active eBayer, you might be suspicious of getting ripped off, which can happen if you don’t know exactly what you’re buying or don’t ask the seller the right questions in advance. In my experience from almost 300 buying and selling transactions, I’ve only had a couple that didn’t work out as expected. Even those, I was able to work out to my satisfaction by being firm and patient. Trust is the foundation of eBay and their system works well.

Where do you shop?

There probably weren’t any surprises in that list for those of you who have been working on your sailboat for very long. Well, maybe the conspicuous absence of a popular online Catalina parts retailer, which is the last place I go for parts, but that’s a different story . There just aren’t many sources to choose from at the national level. Of course, there are some excellent regional sources as well.

ILCA / Laser Parts

West Coast Sailing is your ultimate source for all things ILCA / Laser sailboat sailing, trusted by sailors worldwide and supporting the sailing community since 2005. Shop one design ILCA sailboat parts including sails, spars, deck fittings, blades, covers, dollies, accessories & upgrades. All items are also compatible with existing Laser sailboats.

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Radial / ILCA 6 Composite Lower Mast Section

ILCA 6 / Laser Radial Composite Lower Mast Section

Laser / ILCA 8:1 Cunningham TecPRO (Complete)

Laser / ILCA Vang Complete TecPRO (Allen Vang Block)

Laser / ILCA Outhaul TecPRO 6:1 (Complete)

Laser / ILCA Vang Control PRO

Laser / ILCA 8:1 Cunningham PRO (Complete)

Laser / ILCA Outhaul PRO 6:1 (Complete)

Laser / ILCA Vang Complete TecPRO (Harken Vang Block)

Laser / ILCA Vang Control TecPRO

Laser/ILCA 30mm Extreme High Load Vang Block (Allen)

Laser / ILCA 6:1 Cunningham PRO (Complete)

ILCA 7 Sail MK2 (North)

ILCA 7 Sail MK2 (Hyde)

ILCA 6 Sail (North)

ILCA 6 Sail (Hyde)

ILCA 4 Sail (North)

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Laser sailboat and ilca dinghy parts & accessories.

If you’re looking for Laser sailboat and ILCA dinghy parts, you’ll find virtually any item you need to repair or maintain your sailboat here. Browse through our array of class legal Laser and ILCA dinghy parts including sails, tillers and blades, deck fittings, vangs, control lines, dollies, covers, blade bags, compasses, upgrades, and more. In addition to our full selection of ILCA International Laser Class Association approved parts and fittings, for recreational sailors or programs, check out our practice parts section for non class legal parts. Our staff of dinghy sailors is here to assist with any questions you might have and enjoy FREE SHIPPING on qualifying orders. Let us help you get ready to own the water on your sailboat.

Laser vs ILCA

A passion for Laser sailing and supporting fellow Laser sailors has been core to the identity of West Coast Sailing since our founding in 2005. We’re here to help you understand recent changes with the racing class and the supply chain of new boats, parts, and sails.
If you own a Laser or ILCA sailboat and sail recreationally, any of the parts listed here will be compatible with your boat.
If you actively race your boat, please check out our guide here: Laser vs ILCA Explained

Guide to Laser/ILCA Parts Categories

Sails and Battens - New racing sails, battens, and sail bags. New sails include free sail numbers and installation!
Spars - Complete mast top sections, lower mast sections, and boom assemblies
Tillers and Blades - Fiberglass rudders, rudder heads, daggerboards, tillers, and extensions
Hull and Deck Parts - All fittings found on the Laser deck including eyestraps, fairleads, blocks, and hiking straps
Mast and Boom Parts - All fittings found on Laser spars including tangs, end plugs, connector sleeves, and bullet blocks
Upgrades and Accessories - Popular upgrades that make it easier to sail your Laser
Lines and Line Kits - Selection of complete rope packs and precut line
Outhual and Cunningham Rigging - Upgrade packs, precut line, blocks, and accessories for rigging an outhaul and/or cunningham
Boom Vang Rigging - Upgraded 16:1 vang and components, vang blocks, and precut line for Laser boom vang assemblies
Covers and Bags - Protect your Laser with a deck cover, hull cover, spar bag, or blade bag
Dollies and Trailers - Transportation solutions for your Laser sailboat
Practice Parts - Generic fittings that will fit any existing Laser. Great for the recreational sailor or when class legal fittings are not available

Helpful Resources for Laser / ILCA Sailors

Laser Parts Locator PDF
Laser Rigging Guide PDF
Laser Rigging Videos on YouTube
Laser vs ILCA Explained
What sail do I need or have? Guide to Laser Sail & Rig Sizes
Guide to Restoring & Updating a Laser

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Parts Of a Sail Explained (Illustrated Beginners Guide)

Are you curious about sail mechanics and how they engage the wind? In this illustrated guide, we'll explain the various sail components and how they work together to propel a sailboat. From the head to the foot, the tack to the clew, we'll break down each part and give you a solid foundation to build on as you learn to trim sails and navigate the open sea.

A sail, which is a large piece of fabric that is attached to a long pole called the mast, uses the wind to pull a sailboat across the water. It has various parts, such as the head, tack, clew, luff, leech, foot, mainsail, jib, and batten. These components determine the shape and efficiency of the sail.

Let's break down all these terms and descriptions to understand how each component interacts with each other. So, whether you're a seasoned sailor or a beginner, you'll have a better grasp of sail trim and optimal performance on the water.

The primary parts of a mainsail include the head, tack, clew, luff, leech, and foot.
Some critical elements of the jib include the sheet, genoa, and headstay.
Asymmetrical spinnakers are designed for off-wind sailing and have a more rounded shape, while symmetrical spinnakers are used for downwind sailing and have a more traditional, triangular shape.
The most common fabrics used for making sails are traditional fabrics like cotton and flax, and modern fabrics such as polyester and nylon, Dacron, Mylar, and laminates.
Be sure to learn how to properly trim, reef, clean, flake, and store your sails for durability and optimal performance.

Mainsail is the primary sail on your boat

The mainsail is the largest sail on a sailboat and is typically attached to the mast and boom. It is found aft (rear) of the mast. It's attached to the boat through a track or sail slide, which allows it to move up and down.

	Description
	the very top of the sail that is attached to the mast
	the bottom edge of the sail that is attached to the boom
	the front, leading edge of the sail that runs along the mast
	the trailing edge of the sail that runs from the head to the clew
	the bottom front corner of the sail
	the bottom aft corner of the sail that is attached to the boom
	are thin, flat strips of material (such as fiberglass or wood) that are inserted into pockets in the sail to help it maintain its shape and prevent it from flapping in the wind
	are sets of small lines or ties that are used to reduce the size of the sail in high winds
	are small pieces of ribbon or yarn that are attached to the sail to help the sailor determine the direction and strength of the wind
	are numbers that are affixed to the sail to identify the boat in racing situations
	include lines or sheets that are used to control the shape and position of the sail, such as the mainsheet, outhaul, and cunningham

Jib is a triangular sail placed in front of the boat

The jib is a smaller sail that is attached to the bow of the boat and works in conjunction with the mainsail to control the direction and speed of the boat. It helps to improve the boat's handling and increase speed, working in tandem with the mainsail.

	Description
	the top of the sail that is attached to the forestay
	the leading edge of the sail that runs along the forestay
	the bottom edge of the sail that is attached to the deck or a furling drum
	the trailing edge of the sail that runs from the head to the clew
	the corner of the sail that is attached to the deck or a furling drum
	are small pieces of ribbon or yarn that are attached to the sail to help the sailor determine the direction and strength of the wind
	are lines that are used to control the position and trim of the sail
	a device that allows the jib to be rolled up and stored when not in use
	are clips that are used to attach the jib to the forestay on boats that do not have a furling drum
	the bottom forward corner of the jib that is attached to the boat's bow

In some cases, larger jibs called genoas are used to capture more wind, thus increasing the boat's speed.

Spinnaker is designed for sailing downwind

The spinnaker is a large, colorful, and lightweight balloon-shaped sail designed for sailing downwind. It captures the wind from the rear, pushing the boat forward with added speed and stability.

	Description
	the top of the sail that is attached to a spinnaker halyard
	the leading edge of the sail that runs along the spinnaker pole
	the bottom edge of the sail that is attached to the spinnaker tack line
	the trailing edge of the sail that runs from the head to the clew
	the corner of the sail that is attached to the spinnaker sheet
	a long, horizontal pole that is attached to the mast and used to hold the spinnaker out from the boat
	a line that is attached to the spinnaker pole and used to control its position
	a line that is attached to the clew of the spinnaker and used to control its position and trim
	a line that is attached to the lower forward corner of the spinnaker and used to control its position
	a device that is used to control the spinnaker when it is being raised or lowered

In this section, you'll find a comprehensive explanation of the primary components of a sail and their functions:

Head is the uppermost corner of a sail

The head of the sail refers to the uppermost corner where it connects to the top of the mast. Knowing the location of the head is essential, as it helps you identify the top of the sail and allows you to properly hoist and secure it in place.

Tack is the lower front corner of a sail

The tack is where the lower front corner connects to the base of the mast, or the boom. This important point helps you determine the sail's orientation and affects its overall shape and efficiency. By adjusting the tension at the tack, you can control your sail's performance and handling in various wind conditions.

Clew is the lower rear corner of a saisl

The clew is where the sheets attach to control the sail's angle to the wind. Adjusting the tension on the sheets can change the sail's shape and ultimately influence the boat's speed and direction. Becoming familiar with the clew will help improve your sailing skills and ensure smooth maneuvers on the water.

Luff is the front edge of the sail

The luff is the forward edge of the sail that runs along the mast. It's crucial to maintaining a tight and efficient sail shape. When sailing upwind, pay close attention to the luff, as it can provide valuable information about your sail's trim. A properly trimmed sail will have a smooth luff, allowing the boat to move efficiently against the wind.

Leech is the rear edge of the sail

The leech is opposite the luff. It plays a critical role in controlling the overall shape and efficiency of your sail. Watch the leech carefully while sailing, as excessive tension or looseness can negatively affect your sail's performance. Adjusting your sail's trim or using a device called a "boom vang" can help control the shape and tension of the leech.

Foot is the bottom edge of the sail

The foot is running between the tack and the clew. It helps control the shape and power of the sail by adjusting the tension along the boom. Ensure the foot is properly trimmed, as this can impact your boat's performance and speed. A well-adjusted foot helps your sail maintain its proper shape and operate at optimal efficiency while out on the water.

In this section, we'll look at some critical elements of the jib: the sheet, genoa, and headstay.

Sheet is the line used to control the position and trim of the sail

The jib sheet is the line used to control the jib's angle in relation to the wind. You adjust the sheet to get the best possible sail trim, which greatly affects your boat's performance. The jib sheet typically runs from the jib's clew (the lower rear corner of the sail) through a block on the boat's deck, and back to the cockpit, where you can easily control it.

When adjusting the jib sheet, you want to find the perfect balance between letting the sail out too far, causing it to luff (flutter), and pulling it in too tightly, which can cause heeling or poor sail shape. Make small adjustments and observe how your boat responds to find the sweet spot.

Genoa is a larger jib used to capture more wind

A genoa is a larger version of a standard jib. It overlaps the mainsail, extending further aft, and provides a greater sail area for improved upwind performance. Genoas are categorized by the percentage of overlap with the mainsail. For example, a 130% genoa means that the sail's area is 30% larger than the area of a jib that would end at the mast.

Genoas are useful in light wind conditions, as their larger surface area helps your boat move faster. However, they can become difficult to manage in strong winds. You might need to reef (reduce the size) or swap to a smaller jib to maintain control.

Headstay provides a support structure for the jib

The headstay is a crucial part of your boat's standing rigging system. It is the cable or rod that connects the top of the mast (the masthead) to the bow of the boat. The headstay helps maintain the mast's stability and provides a support structure for the jib.

The tension in your headstay plays a significant role in the jib's sail shape. Proper headstay tension will create a smooth, even curve, allowing your jib to perform optimally. If the headstay is too tight, the sail may be too flat, reducing its power, whereas a loose headstay can result in a sagging, inefficient sail shape.

A spinnaker is a sail designed specifically for sailing off the wind , on courses between a reach and downwind. They are made of lightweight fabric, often brightly colored, and help maximize your sailing speed and performance.

Asymmetrical spinnakers are designed for off-wind sailing

Asymmetrical spinnakers are usually found on modern cruising and racing boats. They're designed for a broader range of wind angles and have a more forgiving shape, making them easier for you to handle. Key components of an asymmetrical spinnaker include:

Tack : This is the front, lower corner where the sail connects to the boat. A tack line is used to adjust the sail's position relative to the bow.
Head : The top corner of the sail, where it connects to the halyard to be hoisted up the mast.
Clew : The aft corner of the sail, connected to the sheet, allowing you to control the angle of the sail to catch the wind effectively.

You can find a step-by-step guide on how to rig and hoist an asymmetrical spinnaker here .

Symmetrical spinnakers are used for downwind sailing

Symmetrical spinnakers are more traditional and usually found on racing boats, where downwind performance is critical. These sails are shaped like a large parachute and are split into two identical halves. Key components of a symmetrical spinnaker include:

Head : Similar to the asymmetrical spinnaker, the head is the top corner connected to the halyard.
Clews : Unlike an asymmetrical spinnaker, a symmetrical spinnaker has two clews. Both are connected to sheets and guys, which help control the sail's shape and movement.
Spinnaker Pole : This is a horizontal pole that extends from the mast and is used to project the windward clew outwards and hold the sail open.

Handling a symmetrical spinnaker can be more challenging, as it requires precise teamwork and coordination. If you're new to sailing with this type of sail, don't hesitate to seek guidance from experienced sailors to improve your technique.

In this section, we'll explore sail controls and settings, which are essential for beginners to understand for efficient sailing. We'll discuss trimming, and reefing, as sub-sections.

Trimming your sails for speed and stability

Trimming is the process of adjusting your sails to optimize them for the current wind conditions and desired direction. Proper sail trim is crucial for maximizing your boat's speed and stability. Here are some basic tips for sail trimming:

Pay attention to the telltales, which are small ribbons or yarn attached to the sails. They help you understand the airflow over your sails and indicate whether they're properly trimmed.
Use the sheets, which are lines attached to the clew of your sails, to adjust the angle of your sails relative to the wind.
In light winds, ease the sails slightly to create a more rounded shape for better lift. In stronger winds, flatten the sails to reduce drag and prevent excessive heeling.

Reefing your sails for control and balance

Reefing is the process of reducing the sail area to help maintain control and balance in stronger wind conditions. It's an essential skill to learn for your safety and the longevity of your sails. Follow these steps to reef your sails:

Head into the wind to reduce pressure on the sails.
Lower the halyard (the line that raises the sail) until the sail reaches the desired reefing point.
Attach the sail's reefing cringle (reinforced eyelet) to the reefing hook or tack line.
Tighten the new, lower clew (bottom corner) of the sail to the boom with the reef line.
Raise the halyard back up to tension the reduced sail.

Take proper care of your sailboat to ensure that it remains in top condition. In this section, we will discuss the key aspects of sail care and maintenance, focusing on cleaning and storage.

Steps to clean your sails

Keeping your sail clean is crucial for its longevity and performance. Follow these simple steps to maintain a spotless sail:

Rinse with fresh water after each use, paying extra attention to areas affected by saltwater, debris, and bird droppings.
Use a soft-bristled brush and a mild detergent to gently scrub away dirt and stains. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they may damage the fabric.
Rinse again thoroughly, ensuring all soap is washed away.
Spread your sail out to air-dry, avoiding direct sunlight, which may harm the fabric's UV protection.

Ways to store your sails

Sail storage is equally important for preserving the lifespan of your sail. Here are some tips for proper sail storage:

Fold or roll your sail : Avoid stuffing or crumpling your sail; instead, gently fold or roll it to minimize creases and wear on the fabric.
Protect from UV rays : UV exposure can significantly reduce the life of your sail. Store it in a cool, shaded area or use a UV-resistant sail cover when not in use.
Ventilation : Ensure your sail is stored in a well-ventilated area to prevent mildew and stale odors.
Lay flat or hang : If space allows, store your sail laid out flat or hanging vertically to reduce the risk of creasing and fabric damage.

Flaking your sails when not in use

Flaking is the process of neatly folding your sails when they're not in use, either on the boom or deck. This helps protect your sails from damage and prolongs their lifespan. Here's how to flake your sails:

Lower the sail slowly, using the halyard while keeping some tension on it.
As the sail comes down, gather and fold the sail material in an accordion-like pattern on top of the boom or deck.
Secure the flaked sail with sail ties or a sail cover to prevent it from coming undone.

Traditional fabrics used to make sails

In the early days of sailing, natural materials like cotton and flax were used to make sails. These fabrics were durable, breathable, and held up well in various weather conditions. However, they would eventually wear out and lose their shape due to the constant exposure to UV rays and seawater.

While traditional fabrics like cotton and flax were once commonly used for sailmaking, they have largely been replaced by synthetic materials like polyester and nylon due to their superior strength, durability, and resistance to mildew and rot. However, some sailors and sailmakers still use cotton and other natural fibers for certain applications, such as traditional sailmaking or historical recreations.

Modern fabrics used to make sails

Modern sail materials, such as Dacron, Mylar, and laminates, are more resilient and longer-lasting than traditional fabrics. These materials are lightweight, strong, and resistant to UV rays and water damage.

Dacron : Dacron is a popular material for sails because of its durability, UV resistance, and ease of maintenance. It's a type of polyester fabric that is often used for making cruising sails. Dacron offers excellent shape retention and resistance to stretch, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced sailors.

Laminate materials : Laminate sails are made by bonding multiple layers of materials like Mylar, polyester, and Kevlar. These sails offer better shape and performance compared to their fabric counterparts, making them popular among racers. However, they tend to be more delicate and may not be suitable for long-term cruising.

Mylar films : Mylar films are used in laminate sails for their excellent strength-to-weight ratio and shape retention. These films are often sandwiched between other materials, such as polyester or Kevlar, to enhance the sail's resistance to stretch and load handling. However, Mylar sails can be susceptible to delamination and abrasion, requiring extra care and regular inspection.

Sail stitching for shape and durability

Sail stitching is an essential aspect of sail construction, helping to maintain the sail's shape and durability. Various stitching techniques can be used, such as zigzag, straight, and triple-step sewing. The choice of stitching type depends on the sail's purpose and expected loads. In addition, using UV-resistant thread ensures that the stitching lasts longer under harsh sun exposure.

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The Different Parts Of A Sailboat Explained

A sailboat consists of hundreds of parts, each with its specific term and function. From stern to bow, keel to mast, each part and its equipment plays a vital role in making the vessel seaworthy and able to sail.

In this guide, I’ll show you most of the components so you can better understand what they are and their function. We’ll begin with the main components, move to the basic features, and finish with our interior and equipment.

The main parts of a sailboat

The main parts of a sailboat are the key components that make it a vessel able to sail. You’ll notice that the structure has several distinct differences from powerboats.

We can categorize the main parts into the following:

Hull: The main structure, or “body” part of a boat.
Keel: The heavy fin at the bottom allows stability under sail.
Rudder: The fin sticking down at the stern, allowing us to steer the vessel.
Mast: The “spars” or “poles” holding the sails.
Rigging: The standing rig is the wires that supports the mast. The running rigging is all the lines that control the sails.
Boom: The horizontal spar supporting the bottom of the mainsail.
Sails: The canvas used to harness the energy of the wind.

Let’s dig a bit deeper into each of the components.

Hull – The main structure

A sailboat’s hull is the vessel’s main body or structure. The shape is vital to the boat’s performance and stability, and you have probably seen boats in many different forms. Older vessels are typically narrow, with a rounded underbody and a small stern. Modern designs have a flatter belly and broad stern supporting dual helm stations.

One of the hull’s primary functions is to displace water and provide buoyancy to keep the boat afloat. The hull is also the structure that holds the vessel’s living compartments and all its equipment. The main structure must be strong enough to withstand the forces of the water and any rough weather conditions that Mother Nature might throw at it.

Fiberglass (GRP), steel, aluminum, and wood are the most commonly used hull materials, each with pros and cons.

You can learn more about hull materials and their strengths in this article .

A monohull is a type of sailboat that has a single hull. Monohulls are classified into two categories based on weight and shape: planing and displacement hulls.

Sailboats with more than one hull are called multihulls. There are two types of multihulls: catamarans, which have two, and trimarans, which have three. These boats are typically designed with planing hulls.

Keel – The fin under the boat

The keel of a sailboat is a structural fin that extends downward from the bottom of the hull. There are several types of keels, each with unique characteristics and advantages. They all serve the same fundamental purpose of stabilizing the boat when we sail by adding lateral resistance in the water and weight at the vessel’s bottom.

Standard keel designs include:

Lifting Keel

Some sailboats have a retractable centerboard functioning as their keel, allowing them to take the boat into shallower areas.

Rudder – To steer the boat

The rudder is a flat surface that sits perpendicular to the waterline. It is connected to the boat by a pivot point, allowing it to swivel left and right. When the steering wheel or tiller is turned, the rudder moves, creating drag in the water causing the boat to turn. The size and shape of the rudder can vary depending on the size and type of boat.

The most commonly seen rudder designs:

Full skeg-supported
Semi skeg-supported

Skeg-supported rudders are structurally one of the most reliable and robust constructions, but they are less efficient than a balanced rudder performance-wise. Balanced rudders pivot around their vertical center, giving less drag in the water and higher maneuverability at the cost of being a more vulnerable construction.

Twin rudders are often seen on modern performance sailboats with a wide stern. When the sailboat heel over , the leeward rudder gets better track through the water than a single rudder placed at the vessel’s center line. Contrary to some misconceptions, they can’t be controlled individually, even if the boat has two steering wheels.

Mast and Rigging – Supporting the sails

The mast is the long vertical spar that extends upward from the deck of a sailboat and holds the sails. It is the tallest part of the boat and is typically made of wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber. The mast is held in place by stays and shrouds, which form the sailboat’s standing rigging.

Depending on the rig the boat is manufactured with, there are several different types of masts. For example, a sloop-rigged sailboat will have only one main mast, while a ketch-rigged vessel will have a smaller additional mizzen mast placed further aft from the main mast.

There are two types of rigging:

The Standing rigging consists of the stays and shrouds that keep the mast or masts in place.
The Running rigging is the lines we use to hoist, lower, and control the sails.

Pro Tip: “S par” is a general term for a pole made of a solid material like wood, metal, or composite and is used to support a boat’s sail. The mast, boom, spreaders, and poles are defined as spars.

Boom – Supporting the mainsail

The boom is a horizontal beam extending from the mast and supporting the mainsail’s tack and clew (bottom two corners). It is attached to the mast by a hinge called a Gooseneck .

We use the boom to control the shape and angle of the mainsail to optimize its efficiency and power. Some booms also have a Vang or Rod-Kicker installed to assist in trimming the mainsail.

Sails – The canvas used to harness the energy of the wind

Most vessels have at least two sails, depending on the rig type and boat setup.

The Mainsail flies behind the mast, on top of the boom. Although it may not always be the largest sail on the vessel, we commonly refer to it as “the main.”

The Headsail(s ), located in front of the mast, are often of different sizes and shapes, and many sailboats have more than one. The Jib and Genoa are two of the most common types.

Different types of sails are used for various sail plans and situations, and you can learn more about them in this guide .

Now that we had a look at the main parts of the boat, let us dive deeper and look at the rest of the vessel.

The starboard and port side of the boat

Learning about the boat’s components is very important, but we must also know how to orient ourselves on the vessel. Using the words “left and right” on onboard often leads to confusion.

If you refer to something on the left side of the boat, the person facing you will be confused. He won’t know if you are referring to his or your left. This is where the terms “Port” and “ Starboard ” make better sense.

When facing the front of the boat or the bow , your left side of the boat is the port side, and the right-hand side is the starboard . If you turn around and face the back of the boat or the stern , your right-hand side will be the port side.

A red light identifies the port side of a vessel.
A green light identifies the starboard side of a vessel.

Windward and Leeward

The windward side of the boat is the side facing the wind. If the wind comes from your right-hand side while facing forward, the starboard side is windward. This will be the boat’s high side as the wind heels the boat over.
The leeward side of the boat is the side opposite to the wind. This will be the lower side of the ship while sailing as the wind heels the boat over.

Windward and leeward are two of the most important aspects to understand when sailing and navigating. Not only to identify equipment and gear on each side of the boat but to avoid collisions when sailing close to other vessels. There are rules on the water dictating which boat is “Stand On” and which has to “Give Way” depending on whether you are the windward or the leeward vessel in the situation.

Read this article to access a free course on navigation rules .

Basic parts of a sailboat

The boat’s bow is the front part, typically shaped like a “V” to cut through the waves. Larger vessels often have a locker for their anchor chain in this section, holding the anchor at the front.

The midship section is the center of the boat. Some refer to this part as amidships.

The stern is the rear or back part of the boat. It is also referred to as the aft . I’ve had French crew calling the stern the butt of the vessel, which is funny but also correct!

The beam is the widest part of the boat. Also referred to as the sides on the middle.

The transom is a flat surface across the stern of the boat.

The waterline is the part where the hull (body) of the boat meets the water. Many vessels have a painted stripe to mark the waterline, indicating how loaded the ship is. If you have too much stuff on board, the waterline goes underwater, and it is time to do some housekeeping!

The freeboard is the vertical part of the ship side between the water and the deck. When you see a blue boat like Ellidah, the freeboard is the blue part.

The deck is the “floor” of the boat when you are outside. You have probably heard the term “All hands on deck!” The front deck is the deck space in front of the mast. Side decks are the decks on the boat’s sides.

The mid-deck is between the cockpit and the mast. The aft deck is the deck behind the cockpit. Sailboats with aft cockpits often don’t have any aft decks, but some have a swimming platform instead.

The cockpit is the boat’s steering position and where you will find the helm.

The helm is the position the helmsman uses to steer the boat. Smaller sailboats often use a tiller to navigate, while most bigger yachts have one or two steering wheels.

Main parts below deck (inside the boat)

Let us look at the interior to highlight and learn about the parts we have below the deck.

The Companionway

The companionway is the “front door” of the boat. This is where the steps lead from the cockpit or deck down below. It is usually opened and closed using a hatch, two doors, or a plate.

The Galley

The galley is the boat’s kitchen. This is where sailors prepare their delicious meals.

The Saloon

The saloon is basically the boat’s living room, usually where you find the settee and dinette. This is where delicious meals from the galley are served together with refreshing beverages in good company.

The settee is the sofa or couch in a boat. It is also used as a sea berth to sleep in when sailing.

The dinette is the area where you can sit down at a table and eat your dinner. It’s also perfect for consuming rum and a game of cards in good company.

A cabin is often used as a bedroom in a boat but is not necessarily where you sleep. Many boats have more than one cabin.

A berth is a place in the boat where you can sleep. This doesn’t necessarily have to be a bed and can often include the sleeping space in the saloon. Sea-berth usually refers to a sleeping position where you are tucked well in and can sleep when the boat is heeling over and moving around.

The head is the toilet on a boat. If your skipper tells you to go and clean the head, getting out the shampoo won’t do you any good!

Nav station

The navigation station is usually a chart table and a console with mysterious instruments like radios, switchboards, and complicated electronics. This is where adventures are planned and the skipper’s favorite seat onboard.

The bilge is a space in the bottom of the hull where water collects and sometimes a storage space for all sorts of things. It usually contains a bilge pump to pump out water that finds its way into the boat in various places.

A v-berth is a bed in the front cabin shaped like a V.

A bulkhead is a wall inside the boat, usually supporting the structure.

Hardware and Equipment

Sailboats come equipped with a variety of different hardware and equipment. While the specific items may vary from boat to boat, there are some essentials that nearly every sailboat has.

A winch is a metal drum that gives you a mechanical advantage and is used to control and tighten lines. These can be operated by turning a line around it and pulling manually or by a winch handle to get more force.

Most modern winches are so-called “self-tailing,” which means they lock the line on so you can winch the line without holding on to it. Some boats even have electrical winches operated by a button.

A cleat is a fitting used to fasten a rope. Most boats have at least 6 of these. One on each side on the bow, midship and stern. These are used to secure the boat to a mooring buoy or key. Many ships have more cleats than this for various lines and ropes, and they can be used for anything as they are strong points fitted to the hull.

The sprayhood is the boat’s windshield that protects the people in the cockpit from sea spray. Some vessels have a canvas sprayhood that can be folded down or removed. Others have solid sprayhoods, often called a hard dodger or a doghouse .

The bimini is the cockpit’s “roof.” It protects you from the elements and shelters you from spray, rain, and burning sun rays! A bimini can be made of canvas or hard material. A hard bimini can also be called a hardtop .

Dinghy

A dinghy is a little boat you use to get from the mothership to shore when you are at anchor, also called a tender or annex . It can be everything from a small inflatable rubber kayak to a RIB or even a solid boat.

An essential and valuable piece of kit as it is the daily driver for most cruisers. It is like the car of a land crab, used for all commuting on the water and hauling important stuff like beer, rum, and food onboard. Dinghies often have electric or petrol engines, which we call outboards.

Dinghies are also great to use for watersports, such as wakeboarding!

Like Captain Ron said in the movie, fenders are the rubber bumper things you hang off your boat to prevent it from scratching against something like the pontoon or another ship. It is conveniently also used to sit on or as a backrest while relaxing on deck.

A boat hook is a long stick with a hook at the end. Used to grab lines, items, and stuff that is too far to reach by hand, like cushions flying overboard. It is also convenient as a tool to push the boat away from another craft or the key. Most vessels have them on board.

The guard rail can be a flexible wire or a solid metal rail surrounding the boat to prevent us from falling overboard. Some also use a net as an addition for increased safety.

The pushpit is a metal guard rail around the stern of the boat. This is where the guard rail is secured on the stern: a common place to mount the BBQ, life raft, and the outboard for the dinghy.

The pulpit is the metal guardrail on the bow. This is where the guard rail is secured onto the bow.

The stanchions are the metal bars that keep the guard rail in place around the boat between the pushpit and the pulpit.

An arch is a typical structure made of stainless steel on the back of a boat and is often used to mount a variety of items like antennas, radars, solar panels, wind generators, etc. It is also convenient to use for lifting the dinghy and its outboard.

Ground Tackle

The ground tackle consists of several things:

Your anchor
Your anchor chain
The link between the two
The connection between the chain and your boat

It includes all equipment holding your boat to the ground. Larger boats sometimes have two anchors on the bow.

A windlass is a winch that hoists and lowers the anchor and chain. Most boats have one on the bow and some on the stern. These incredible things can be electrical or manual (some are both) and are essential to anchor your boat when not in a port or marina.

VHF stands for “Very High-Frequency Radio.” It broadcasts on the VHF network and allows you to communicate with others around you. Sadly, you won’t be able to tune in to your favorite radio show on these.

Still, they are essential for contacting other boats and port authorities. It is also the radio you will transmit an emergency mayday over in case of emergency. VHF radios sometimes require a license, depending on the country you are in.

Chartplotter

A Chartplotter is a navigation computer that shows various information on a screen, like charts, routes, radar images, etc. It is another vital piece of equipment that helps you navigate and maneuver the boat.

Final words

I hope this guide has been helpful and not too overwhelming for you. We’ve covered many of the parts of a sailboat and its terms and functions, but this article only touches on the basics. If you want to keep learning about sailing, I have written several other guides to help you get started.

Now that you have a basic understanding of sailboats, it’s time to take the next step and dive into a sailboat’s standing rigging .

Sharing is caring!

Skipper, Electrician and ROV Pilot

Robin is the founder and owner of Sailing Ellidah and has been living on his sailboat since 2019. He is currently on a journey to sail around the world and is passionate about writing his story and helpful content to inspire others who share his interest in sailing.

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Learning the Parts of a Sailboat

Teach yourself the definitions of the many different sailboat parts.

A sailboat is a boat that is propelled either partly or entirely by sails. Sailing is popular in many destinations around the world. For example, Bahamas catamaran charters are a time-honored tradition in the Caribbean, and in the Mediterranean, sailing is a way of life.

There are several different types of sailboats and what constitutes a sailboat varies by maritime culture and region. Most sailboats are classified based on their hull configuration, size, purpose, keel type, configuration and number of masts, and the sail plan. The different types of sailboats include cutters, catboats, dinghies, ketches, schooners, sloops, and yawls. There are many different parts that make up a sailboat. Continue reading to learn about the different parts of a sailboat.

Backstay – A rod or cable that runs from the stern of the boat to the top of the mast.
Block – This is the nautical term that means pulley.
Boom – A pole that attached to the mast horizontally and is used for extending the foot of the mainsail.
Boom Vang – A device used for holding down the boom.
Bow – The front part of a boat.
Centerboard – A plate that pivots and is used to lessen leeway and balance the boat.
Cleat – A fastening where lines are able to be secured.
Halyard – The line that is used to raise a sail; the main halyard raises the main sail.
Hull – This is the body of the boat, not including masts, superstructure, or rigging.
Jib – A foresail that fits within the foretriangle and the clew does not extend past the mast.
Keel – The part of a boat that is fixed underwater and is used to provide stability and prevent drifting sideways.
Line – Refers to any pieces of rope located on a boat.
Mast – A vertical pole on a boat that is used for supporting sails.
Outhaul – A sail control that allows tensioning of the foot and attaches to the clew.
Painter – The line attached to a smaller boats bow that is used for tying it to another boat or a dock.
Rudder – The movable underwater steering device of a boat.
Shackle – A fitting composed of metal that is normally used to connect halyards and sails.
Shrouds/Stays – Wires that help to hold the mast upright; the front wire is referred to as the forestay.
Spreade r – Struts used to increase the power of the shrouds, they are attached to the mast.
Stern – The afterpart of the boat.
Tiller – A metal or wooden stick that is used to turn the rudder of the boat.
Transom – The afterpart of the boat that is square to its centerline.
Wheel – The apparatus used for steering.
Winch – A drum shaped object made of metal which lines are wrapped around to make trimming easier.

There are many different parts of a sailboat that work together to help the boat move. Learning how to sail can be fun and the first step is becoming familiar with the parts of a sailboat and commonly used sailing terms. If you’re planning a yachting vacation – like a Bahamas yacht charter – this knowledge will come in handy, if you’d like a sailing lesson at sea. For more on sailboat parts and sailing terms, check out the pages below.

In-Depth Page of Sailing Terminology
The Basic Parts of a Sailboat
Definitions and Mnemonics for Sailors and Powerboaters
Learn the Parts of a Sailboat
Sailing Terms Everyone Should Know
Sailing Basics: Terms, Rules, and How to Sail
Nautical Terms Related to Sails and Sailing

Written by Katja Kukovic

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Sailboat Hardware, Parts & Accessories
They are here to help whether you are a seasoned sailor or just starting out. Can't find what you're looking for? Let us help. 206-632-4462. Email. Shop sailboat parts and hardware from Fisheries Supply, including gudgeon pintle sets, Harken blocks, boom vangs, rope clutches, and sailing instruments.
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The Parts of Sailboat: A Complete Guide
A basic sailboat is composed of at least 12 parts: the hull, the keel, the rudder, the mast, the mainsail, the boom, the kicking strap (boom vang), the topping lift, the jib, the spinnaker, the genoa, the backstay, and the forestay. Read all the way through for the definition of each sailboat part and to know how they work.
Sailboat Parts Explained: Illustrated Guide (with Diagrams)
Here are the different parts that belong to the standing rigging: Forestay or Headstay - Line or cable that supports the mast and is attached to the bow of the boat. This is often a steel cable. Backstay - Line or cable that supports the mast and is attached to the stern of the boat. This is often a steel cable.
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Sailboat Parts & Sailing Equipment. At MAURIPRO Sailing we strive to be your ultimate source for sailboat hardware. Whether you are looking for Sailboat blocks, Boom Vangs, cam cleats, or other deck hardware, you can find it here. We offer technical assistance to help you outfit your boat with the right hardware to match your sailing needs.
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MAURIPRO Sailing is more than an online sailing store; we are an international group of passionate sailors, clean oceans advocates, and sailing marketeers. We share the common goal of providing sailors around the world with the information you need to select sailboat equipment, sailing gear properly, or to source that elusive sailboat part and ...
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SHOP PARTS. LEARN MORE. ©2023 Schaefer Marine Inc., 158 Duchaine Boulevard, New Bedford, MA / Tel: 508-995-9511. Schaefer Marine is a leading manufacturer of high-quality sailboat hardware and accessories. From blocks and travelers to furling systems and winches, we offer innovative and reliable solutions for all your sailing needs.
Illustrated Guide to Sailboat Parts [Updated 2023]
Parts of Sailboat Hulls. The boat's hull is its main body. Most are made of fiberglass, but there are a few aluminum sailboat models out there too. Wood is more traditional but more difficult to maintain than these modern alternatives. Sailboat hulls are displacement hulls, which means they sit low in the water and move relatively slowly.
The 6 Best Sources for Sailboat Parts and Supplies
If you need of any parts or accessories that are popular and common to both sailboats and motor boats, Wholesale Marine offers attractive prices. They also stock sailing-specific gear from Ronstan and Barton Marine. ... 7 thoughts on " The 6 Best Sources for Sailboat Parts and Supplies " islandersailboat.info says: August 22, 2015 at 9:00 ...
ILCA / Laser Parts
If you own a Laser or ILCA sailboat and sail recreationally, any of the parts listed here will be compatible with your boat. If you actively race your boat, please check out our guide here: Laser vs ILCA Explained; Guide to Laser/ILCA Parts Categories. Sails and Battens - New racing sails, battens, and sail bags. New sails include free sail ...
Boat Parts, Sailing, Kayaks, Paddleboards and Marine Electronics
Shop the official West Marine Store to find over 100,000 products in stock for boating, sailing, fishing, or paddling. Since 1968, West Marine has grown to over 250 local stores, with knowledgeable Associates happy to assist. Shop with confidence - get free shipping to home or stores + price match guarantee!
Parts Of a Sail Explained (Illustrated Beginners Guide)
Parts of a Sail and Their Functions. In this guide, we'll focus on the three main types of sails: Mainsail, Jib, and Spinnaker. Mainsail is the primary sail on your boat. The mainsail is the largest sail on a sailboat and is typically attached to the mast and boom. It is found aft (rear) of the mast. It's attached to the boat through a track or ...
The Different Parts Of A Sailboat Explained
The main parts of a sailboat. Hull - The main structure. Keel - The fin under the boat. Rudder - To steer the boat. Mast and Rigging - Supporting the sails. Boom - Supporting the mainsail. Sails - The canvas used to harness the energy of the wind. The starboard and port side of the boat. Windward and Leeward.
CatalinaOwners.com store
CatalinaOwners.com has the parts and accessories you need for your Catalina sailboat. From canvas and cushions to rigging and hardware by top suppliers like Lewmar, Schaefer, Gray, Ronstan, and more. ... Schaefer, Gray, Ronstan, and more. We're the first and last stop for parts and accessories. Customize your boat, or put it back in its ...
Learning the Parts of a Sailboat
A sailboat is a boat that is propelled either partly or entirely by sails. Sailing is popular in many destinations around the world. For example, Bahamas catamaran charters are a time-honored tradition in the Caribbean, and in the Mediterranean, sailing is a way of life. There are several different types of sailboats and what constitutes a sailboat varies by maritime culture and region.
Fisheries Supply: Marine Supplies & Boat Supplies Since 1928
Let us help. 206-632-4462. Fisheries Supply is a leading Marine Supplies & Boat Supplies Retailer and Distributor. We carry all the top brands. Shop online today!
Nautical Home Decor & Used Sailboat Parts Store, Anchors & Oars
Anchors & Oars is a veteran-owned company dedicated to preserving the legacy of boating by recycling and reselling salvaged boat parts. Our extensive inventory spans a wide range of years, from 1930s vintage finds to contemporary equipment, with a focus on hard-to-find 1970s-80s sailboat parts.

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A Guide to the Different Parts of a Sailboat

Displacement Hulls

Planing Hull

The Rudder

The Main Sail

The Kicking Strap (Boom Vang)

The Topping Lift

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Parts of a sail

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Illustrated Guide to Sailboat Parts [Updated 2023]

Parts of Sailboat Hulls

Bottom of a Sailboat – Keels and Things

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Types of Rudders – What Steers a Sailboat

Bottom of Sail Boat – Running Gear

Up Top – Types of Sailboat Designs

On Deck Sailboat Components – Sailboat Front

Going Aloft – Basic Boat Parts of a Sailing Rig

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