sailboat cockpit parts

Sailboat Parts Explained: Illustrated Guide (with Diagrams)

When you first get into sailing, there are a lot of sailboat parts to learn. Scouting for a good guide to all the parts, I couldn't find any, so I wrote one myself.

Below, I'll go over each different sailboat part. And I mean each and every one of them. I'll walk you through them one by one, and explain each part's function. I've also made sure to add good illustrations and clear diagrams.

This article is a great reference for beginners and experienced sailors alike. It's a great starting point, but also a great reference manual. Let's kick off with a quick general overview of the different sailboat parts.

General Overview

The different segments

You can divide up a sailboat in four general segments. These segments are arbitrary (I made them up) but it will help us to understand the parts more quickly. Some are super straightforward and some have a bit more ninja names.

Something like that. You can see the different segments highlighted in this diagram below:

The hull is what most people would consider 'the boat'. It's the part that provides buoyancy and carries everything else: sails, masts, rigging, and so on. Without the hull, there would be no boat. The hull can be divided into different parts: deck, keel, cabin, waterline, bilge, bow, stern, rudder, and many more.

I'll show you those specific parts later on. First, let's move on to the mast.

Sailboats Explained

The mast is the long, standing pole holding the sails. It is typically placed just off-center of a sailboat (a little bit to the front) and gives the sailboat its characteristic shape. The mast is crucial for any sailboat: without a mast, any sailboat would become just a regular boat.

I think this segment speaks mostly for itself. Most modern sailboats you see will have two sails up, but they can carry a variety of other specialty sails. And there are all kinds of sail plans out there, which determine the amount and shape of sails that are used.

The Rigging

This is probably the most complex category of all of them.

Rigging is the means with which the sails are attached to the mast. The rigging consists of all kinds of lines, cables, spars, and hardware. It's the segment with the most different parts.

The most important parts

If you learn anything from this article, here are the most important parts of any sailboat. You will find all of these parts in some shape or form on almost any sailboat.

Okay, we now have a good starting point and a good basic understanding of the different sailboat parts. It's time for the good stuff. We're going to dive into each segment in detail.

Below, I'll go over them one by one, pointing out its different parts on a diagram, listing them with a brief explanation, and showing you examples as well.

After reading this article, you'll recognize every single sailboat part and know them by name. And if you forget one, you're free to look it up in this guide.

On this page:

The hull is the heart of the boat. It's what carries everything: the mast, the sails, the rigging, the passengers. The hull is what provides the sailboat with its buoyancy, allowing it to stay afloat.

Sailboats mostly use displacement hulls, which is a shape that displaces water when moving through it. They are generally very round and use buoyancy to support its own weight. These two characteristics make sure it is a smooth ride.

There are different hull shapes that work and handle differently. If you want to learn more about them, here's the Illustrated Guide to Boat Hull Types (with 11 Examples ). But for now, all we need to know is that the hull is the rounded, floating part of any sailboat.

Instead of simply calling the different sides of a hull front, back, left and right , we use different names in sailing. Let's take a look at them.

The bow is the front part of the hull. It's simply the nautical word for 'front'. It's the pointy bit that cuts through the water. The shape of the bow determines partially how the boat handles.

The stern is the back part of the hull. It's simply the nautical word for 'back'. The shape of the stern partially determines the stability and speed of the boat. With motorboats, the stern lies deep inside the water, and the hull is flatter aft. Aft also means back. This allows it to plane, increasing the hull speed. For sailboats, stability is much more important, so the hull is rounded throughout, increasing its buoyancy and hydrodynamic properties.

The transom is the backplate of the boat's hull. It's the most aft (rear) part of the boat.

Port is the left side of a sailboat.

Starboard is the right side of a sailboat

The bilges are the part where the bottom and the sides of the hull meet. On sailboats, these are typically very round, which helps with hydrodynamics. On powerboats, they tend to have an angle.

The waterline is the point where the boat's hull meets the water. Generally, boat owners paint the waterline and use antifouling paint below it, to protect it from marine growth.

The deck is the top part of the boat's hull. In a way, it's the cap of the boat, and it holds the deck hardware and rigging.

Displacement hulls are very round and smooth, which makes them very efficient and comfortable. But it also makes them very easy to capsize: think of a canoe, for example.

The keel is a large fin that offsets the tendency to capsize by providing counterbalance. Typically, the keel carries ballast in the tip, creating a counterweight to the wind's force on the sails.

The rudder is the horizontal plate at the back of the boat that is used to steer by setting a course and maintaining it. It is connected to the helm or tiller.

Tiller or Helm

• The helm is simply the nautical term for the wheel.
• The tiller is simply the nautical term for the steering stick.

The tiller or helm is attached to the rudder and is used to steer the boat. Most smaller sailboats (below 30') have a tiller, most larger sailboats use a helm. Large ocean-going vessels tend to have two helms.

The cockpit is the recessed part in the deck where the helmsman sits or stands. It tends to have some benches. It houses the outside navigation and systems interfaces, like the compass, chartplotter, and so on. It also houses the mainsheet traveler and winches for the jib. Most boats are set up so that the entire vessel can be operated from the cockpit (hence the name). More on those different parts later.

Most larger boats have some sort of roofed part, which is called the cabin. The cabin is used as a shelter, and on cruising sailboats you'll find the galley for cooking, a bed, bath room, and so on.

The mast is the pole on a sailboat that holds the sails. Sailboats can have one or multiple masts, depending on the mast configuration. Most sailboats have only one or two masts. Three masts or more is less common.

The boom is the horizontal pole on the mast, that holds the mainsail in place.

The sails seem simple, but actually consist of many moving parts. The parts I list below work for most modern sailboats - I mean 90% of them. However, there are all sorts of specialty sails that are not included here, to keep things concise.

The mainsail is the largest sail on the largest mast. Most sailboats use a sloop rigging (just one mast with one bermuda mainsail). In that case, the main is easy to recognize. With other rig types, it gets more difficult, since there can be multiple tall masts and large sails.

If you want to take a look at the different sail plans and rig types that are out there, I suggest reading my previous guide on how to recognize any sailboat here (opens in new tab).

Sail sides:

• Leech - Leech is the name for the back side of the sail, running from the top to the bottom.
• Luff - Luff is the name for the front side of the sail, running from the top to the bottom.
• Foot - Foot is the name for the lower side of the sail, where it meets the boom.

Sail corners:

• Clew - The clew is the lower aft (back) corner of the mainsail, where the leech is connected to the foot. The clew is attached to the boom.
• Tack - The tack is the lower front corner of the mainsail
• Head - The head is the top corner of the mainsail

Battens are horizontal sail reinforcers that flatten and stiffen the sail.

Telltales are small strings that show you whether your sail trim is correct. You'll find telltales on both your jib and mainsail.

The jib is the standard sized headsail on a Bermuda Sloop rig (which is the sail plan most modern sailboats use).

As I mentioned: there are all kinds, types, and shapes of sails. For an overview of the most common sail types, check out my Guide on Sail Types here (with photos).

The rigging is what is used to attach your sails and mast to your boat. Rigging, in other words, mostly consists of all kinds of lines. Lines are just another word for ropes. Come to think of it, sailors really find all kinds of ways to complicate the word rope ...

Two types of rigging

There are two types of rigging: running and standing rigging. The difference between the two is very simple.

• The running rigging is the rigging on a sailboat that's used to operate the sails. For example, the halyard, which is used to lower and heave the mainsail.
• The standing rigging is the rigging that is used to support the mast and sail plan.

Standing Rigging

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.
• Sidestay or Shroud - Line or cable that supports the mast from the sides of the boat. Most sailboats use at least two sidestays (one on each side).
• Spreader - The sidestays are spaced to steer clear from the mast using spreaders.

Running Rigging: different words for rope

Ropes play a big part in sailing, and especially in control over the sails. In sailboat jargon, we call ropes 'lines'. But there are some lines with a specific function that have a different name. I think this makes it easier to communicate with your crew: you don't have to define which line you mean. Instead, you simply shout 'mainsheet!'. Yeah, that works.

Running rigging consists of the lines, sheets, and hardware that are used to control, raise, lower, shape and manipulate the sails on a sailboat. Rigging varies for different rig types, but since most sailboats are use a sloop rig, nearly all sailboats use the following running rigging:

• Halyards -'Halyard' is simply the nautical name for lines or ropes that are used to raise and lower the mainsail. The halyard is attached to the top of the mainsail sheet, or the gaffer, which is a top spar that attaches to the mainsail. You'll find halyards on both the mainsail and jib.
• Sheets - 'Sheet' is simply the nautical term for lines or ropes that are used to set the angle of the sail.
• Mainsheet - The line, or sheet, that is used to set the angle of the mainsail. The mainsheet is attached to the Mainsheet traveler. More on that under hardware.
• Jib Sheet - The jib mostly comes with two sheets: one on each side of the mast. This prevents you from having to loosen your sheet, throwing it around the other side of the mast, and tightening it. The jib sheets are often controlled using winches (more on that under hardware).
• Cleats are small on-deck hooks that can be used to tie down sheets and lines after trimming them.
• Reefing lines - Lines that run through the mainsail, used to put a reef in the main.
• The Boom Topping Lift is a line that is attached to the aft (back) end of the boom and runs to the top of the mast. It supports the boom whenever you take down the mainsail.
• The Boom Vang is a line that places downward tension on the boom.

There are some more tensioning lines, but I'll leave them for now. I could probably do an entire guide on the different sheets on a sailboat. Who knows, perhaps I'll write it.

This is a new segment, that I didn't mention before. It's a bit of an odd duck, so I threw all sorts of stuff into this category. But they are just as important as all the other parts. Your hardware consists of cleats, winches, traveler and so on. If you don't know what all of this means, no worries: neither did I. Below, you'll find a complete overview of the different parts.

Deck Hardware

Just a brief mention of the different deck hardware parts:

• Pulpits are fenced platforms on the sailboat's stern and bow, which is why they are called the bow pulpit and stern pulpit here. They typically have a solid steel framing for safety.
• Stanchons are the standing poles supporting the lifeline , which combined for a sort of fencing around the sailboat's deck. On most sailboats, steel and steel cables are used for the stanchons and lifelines.

Mainsheet Traveler

The mainsheet traveler is a rail in the cockpit that is used to control the mainsheet. It helps to lock the mainsheet in place, fixing the mainsails angle to the wind.

If you're interested in learning more about how to use the mainsheet traveler, Matej has written a great list of tips for using your mainsheet traveler the right way . It's a good starting point for beginners.

Winches are mechanical or electronic spools that are used to easily trim lines and sheets. Most sailboats use winches to control the jib sheets. Modern large sailing yachts use electronic winches for nearly all lines. This makes it incredibly easy to trim your lines.

You'll find the compass typically in the cockpit. It's the most old-skool navigation tool out there, but I'm convinced it's also one of the most reliable. In any way, it definitely is the most solid backup navigator you can get for the money.

Want to learn how to use a compass quickly and reliably? It's easy. Just read my step-by-step beginner guide on How To Use a Compass (opens in new tab .

Chartplotter

Most sailboats nowadays use, besides a compass and a map, a chartplotter. Chartplotters are GPS devices that show a map and a course. It's very similar to your normal car navigation.

Outboard motor

Most sailboats have some sort of motor to help out when there's just the slightest breeze. These engines aren't very big or powerful, and most sailboats up to 32' use an outboard motor. You'll find these at the back of the boat.

Most sailboats carry 1 - 3 anchors: one bow anchor (the main one) and two stern anchors. The last two are optional and are mostly used by bluewater cruisers.

I hope this was helpful, and that you've gained a good understanding of the different parts involved in sailing. I wanted to write a good walk-through instead of overwhelming you with lists and lists of nautical terms. I hope I've succeeded. If so, I appreciate any comments and tips below.

I've tried to be as comprehensive as possible, without getting into the real nitty gritty. That would make for a gigantic article. However, if you feel I've left something out that really should be in here, please let me know in the comments below, so I can update the article.

I own a small 20 foot yacht called a Red witch made locally back in the 70s here in Western Australia i found your article great and enjoyed reading it i know it will be a great help for me in my future leaning to sail regards John.

David Gardner

İ think this is a good explanation of the difference between a ”rope” and a ”line”:

Rope is unemployed cordage. In other words, when it is in a coil and has not been assigned a job, it is just a rope.

On the other hand, when you prepare a rope for a specific task, it becomes employed and is a line. The line is labeled by the job it performs; for example, anchor line, dock line, fender line, etc.

Hey Mr. Buckles

I am taking on new crew to race with me on my Flying Scot (19ft dingy). I find your Sailboat Parts Explained to be clear and concise. I believe it will help my new crew learn the language that we use on the boat quickly without being overwhelmed.

PS: my grandparents were from Friesland and emigrated to America.

Thank you Shawn for the well written, clear and easy to digest introductory article. Just after reading this first article I feel excited and ready to set sails and go!! LOL!! Cheers! Daniel.

steve Balog

well done, chap

Great intro. However, the overview diagram misidentifies the cockpit location. The cockpit is located aft of the helm. Your diagram points to a location to the fore of the helm.

William Thompson-Ambrose

An excellent introduction to the basic anatomy and function of the sailboat. Anyone who wants to start sailing should consider the above article before stepping aboard! Thank-you

James Huskisson

Thanks for you efforts mate. We’ve all got to start somewhere. Thanks for sharing. Hoping to my first yacht. 25ft Holland. Would love to cross the Bass Strait one day to Tasmania. 👌 Cheers mate

Alan Alexander Percy

thankyou ijust aquired my first sailboat at 66yrs of age its down at pelican point a beautifull place in virginia usa my sailboat is a redwing 30 if you are ever in the area i wouldnt mind your guidance and superior knowledge of how to sail but iam sure your fantastic article will help my sailboat is wings 30 ft

Thanks for quick refresher course. Having sailed in California for 20+ years I now live in Spain where I have to take a spanish exam for a sailboat license. Problem is, it’s only in spanish. So a lot to learn for an old guy like me.

Very comprehensive, thank you

Your article really brought all the pieces together for me today. I have been adventuring my first sailing voyage for 2 months from the Carolinas and am now in Eleuthera waiting on weather to make the Exumas!!! Great job and thanks

Helen Ballard

I’ve at last found something of an adventure to have in sailing, so I’m starting at the basics, I have done a little sailing but need more despite being over 60 life in the old dog etc, thanks for your information 😊

Barbara Scott

I don’t have a sailboat, neither do l plan to literally take to the waters. But for mental exercise, l have decided to take to sailing in my Bermuda sloop, learning what it takes to become a good sailor and run a tight ship, even if it’s just imaginary. Thank you for helping me on my journey to countless adventures and misadventures, just to keep it out of the doldrums! (I’m a 69 year old African American female who have rediscovered why l enjoyed reading The Adventures of Robert Louis Stevenson as well as his captivating description of sea, wind, sailboat,and sailor).

Great article and very good information source for a beginner like me. But I didn’t find out what I had hoped to, which is, what are all those noisy bits of kit on top of the mast? I know the one with the arrow is a weather vane, but the rest? Many thanks, Jay.

Louis Cohen

The main halyard is attached to the head of the mainsail, not the to the mainsheet. In the USA, we say gaff, not gaffer. The gaff often has its own halyard separate from the main halyard.

Other than that it’s a nice article with good diagrams.

A Girl Who Has an Open Sail Dream

Wow! That was a lot of great detail! Thank you, this is going to help me a lot on my project!

Hi, good info, do u know a book that explains all the systems on a candc 27,

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A Practical Look at Sailboat Cockpit Design

Ps outlines what to look for when searching for a comfortable, functional cockpit..

Cockpit ergonomics involve more than a concern about coaming angles and comfortable seating. These are just two items on a long list of attributes that define the space where sailors spend most of their waking time.

At boat shows, the crowd can be divided into those that poke around on deck and those who head directly below. Brokers know the difference between racing sailors and cruisers and which end of the companionway ladder will seal the deal. Racers want performance and scrutinize the on-deck design features that make it all happen, while cruisers look below for the amenities of a house afloat. This stereotype may be too rigid, but from what we’ve seen at recent boat shows, cruisers need to take a closer look at the cockpit and get a feel for how a sailboat will handle underway, as well as serve as a home away from home.

There’s much more at stake than comfort for the crew. Cockpit design and layout drives many boat-handling tasks, ranging from steering and sail trimming to what goes on when its time to reef. Angles of view can even affect watchkeeping.

For example, a high center cockpit and a large overlapping genoa create a 90-degree-plus no see zone, and thats a big deal when it comes to collision avoidance. A large catamaran with a tall bridge-deck cabin can add an even larger no see zone, especially when running on autopilot with no one perched on the elevated helm seat.

In short, many cockpits are optimized for at-anchor enjoyment instead of underway usability. So part of the boat-shopping process should include careful scrutiny of how essential sailing and boat-handling tasks will be accomplished. For starters, note how much contortion it takes to really crank each winch, determine whether or not the line leads favor easy reefing, and check to see how well the cockpit shape contributes to keeping the crew from being washed overboard. These are essential attributes, and for some, they are more vital than galley counter material and the fabric that covers the cushions below.

Grand Prix racers have long favored wide open, low sided, no-transom cockpits that are more of an open deck than a protective trench. In heavy weather, these nothing-to-cling-to cockpits can become perilous. In 1997, during the Hong Kong to Osaka, Japan Race, Americas Cup trials veteran Makoto Namba was at the helm of Escape One when a 20-foot breaking sea washed him out the open transom of the 45-foot racer. In 2006, Dutch Volvo Ocean racer Hans Horrevoets was swept from the deck of ABN AMRO TWO and lost at sea. Closer to home, pro sailor Dan Cianci was tossed over the lifelines of the 50-foot ocean racer Snow Lion. The accident occurred at night, in heavy weather just off the Delaware River mouth. In each case, the cockpit design favored sail trim and line handling over heavy-weather safety considerations. Many ocean racers mitigate such design tradeoffs with careful use of harnesses, tethers, jack lines, and hard points for tether attachment.

Just the opposite design trend can be found in the deep cockpit and conventional closed transom of sailboats such as Ted Hoods 25-year-old design, American Promise. Dodge Morgan sailed the heavy-displacement 60-footer solo around the world. The big, double-head rigged sloop provided a great deal of crew protection and seakeeping ability during Morgans voyage. And for years after he donated the boat to the U.S. Naval Academy, midshipmen also learned to appreciate the cockpit layout-particularly during bad weather offshore.

PS Technical Editor Ralph Naranjo sailed that boat in a gale-strewn trans-Atlantic with an able crew and encountered a nasty 979-millibar low at about 45 degrees North latitude. According to the log, AP was reaching eastward at 9 knots under storm trysail and storm jib with green water routinely sweeping the deck. Seas had silenced the mini-M satphone by regularly immersing the dome shaped antenna in wave faces, eventually flooding the internal circuitry.

It was a rough passage, and little things taken for granted in smoother seas showed their true value. Features like the deep cockpit well, the heavy-duty, water-tight companionway doors, and the massive cockpit drains all proved their worth.

The flip side of the coin is that really bad weather encounters are a rare occurrence for most sailors. More often, 0- to 20-knot sailing conditions prevail. And our coastline is dotted with safe havens in which to hide from the elements. So one of the big challenges facing every designer and naval architect drawing lines for their next new boat is the question of exposure. Will owners use the boat as a dockside second home and be underway only in fair weather, or will they take the cruiser label to heart and leave land well astern? A close look at cockpit layouts will give you some indication of the boats intended use.

We prefer to evaluate cockpit ergonomics from both static and dynamic points of view. On some boats, these underway and at anchor evaluations lead to disparate conclusions. A cockpit that works well underway may be confining in port, or another vessel with a patio-size stern may be altogether dysfunctional at sea. It’s all an issue of trying to do two different jobs with one fixed set of dimensions and appendages. Buyers need to know what attributes they will make best use of.

For monohulls, coping with heel is the first big challenge, and wide-open space, whether its in the cockpit or main saloon, can be a tough challenge. The universal solution to carrying wide beam aft on cruising boats seems to be the ubiquitous cockpit table. It can be a handy centerline support, but it’s a tough addition to a seafaring cockpit in the minds of many traditional sailors. That said, production boatbuilders have gotten much better at making these centerline, folding-leaf tables sturdy enough for sea duty and effective as a handhold.

Industry Trends

Over the last 50 years, mainstream production sailboat design has moved noticeably away from the racer/cruiser defined by Pearson, Tartan, C&C, Cal, Columbia, Ranger, Islander, Ericson, and others. The new boats are roomier with less emphasis on performance under sail. Racers now have their own genre of sailboat, and they are faster, better handling, and more capable than their predecessors. But whats most surprising is that many mainstream cruisers are anything but optimized for long-distance passages and long-term living aboard.

These boats feature convenience, style, and comfort, and the actual design objective in many cases is more focused on weekend cruising and an annual two-week summer harbor-hopping cruise. Easy sail-setting and large boat interiors in shorter waterline lengths prevail, and such trends influence the shape and layout of the cockpit. When it comes to ergonomics, the split between cruisers and racers is more apparent than ever, but theres also some real differentiation within the ranks of cruisers themselves.

In Practical Sailors recent scrutiny of cockpit designs at local boat shows, weve noted four emerging sailboat stereotypes. These include daysailers that feature few, if any, accommodations; racing boats brimming with performance-enhancing hardware; and ocean-going cruisers capable of extended passagemaking. The fourth grouping-larger than all the other three combined-are also labeled cruisers, but with less draft, less stability, and less versatile sail plans, they are more like an SUV designed more for the highway than off-roading in the backcountry.

Sizing Up a Cockpit

The takeaway lesson for us was the importance of making sure that the cockpit of the boat you are about to buy is in keeping with the mission of the rest of the boat. If you are a serious club racer, the centerline table wont be a crew favorite. Those making a double-handed passage on a 40-footer will see a tight, narrow cockpit differently than when eight sail the same boat. So with complete belief in the old adage, different strokes for different folks, heres what we looked for when evaluating cockpit design. It can be used as a helpful buyers guide when you’re surveying your next boat.

Working the winches: All too often, winch location is an afterthought, and fine hardware is stuck on side coamings shaped more as a roof for the aft cabin than as a key component of sail trim. We always like to check sheet leads angles that lead lines to a particular winch and then mimic what cranking with a two-handed winch handle would be like. Look for 360-degree clearance with no knuckle-busting stanchions in the way. Be sure that the winch grinding works on either tack. Genoa sheeting may always put you on the leeward side of the cockpit, but runners and spinnaker guys will usually be worked on a windward winch.

Sheets and halyards: One of testers major complaints was builders habit of running seldom-used halyard lines attached to roller-furling headsails and in-mast furling mainsails all the way aft to the cockpit. Doing so left lengthy line tails cluttering up the area under the dodger where reefing lines, the boom vang, and in some cases, the main sheet all arrived like too many trains in a station.

Theres no perfect mainsheet arrangement, but some are better than others, and the one you choose has a lot to do with how much attention you pay to the nuance of sail trim. The current vogue among serious racers involves 2-to-1 end-boom sheeting: an in-boom lead of the double-ended sheet returns aft via turning blocks near the mast and runs to winches on both sides of the boat (often referred to as Admirals Cup, or German mainsheet). Fast, no-load hand trimming is the upside, but in any breeze, theres good reason to quickly get the sheet on a winch drum. The sheet tail is shorter because of the low ratio (2-to-1) lead. One nuisance is that the sheet can end up bunched up on one side or the other.

Many cruisers prefer higher ratio, multi-part tackles for mainsheeting and may lead each end to a Harken-type adjustment system rather than using a winch. When fast tacking action is not in the cards, this is a user-friendly system.

Some cruisers incorporate mid-boom sheeting because it moves the tackle out of the cockpit than rather then because of how effectively it allows the mainsail to be trimmed. The shortened lever arm means the sheet needs a winch sooner than later. There is also more of a leech-flattening, vang-like effect to this type of sheeting, not the best feature for light-air efficiency.

The trend toward travelers roosting on over-cockpit arches, a longtime standard in Hunter Yachts and a recent adoption in some Beneteau lines, helps protect the crew from accidental jibe injuries and allows dodgers and biminis to flourish, but windows in these covers are essential, if a crew is to see whats happening whey they are pulling the strings.

Anticipate the angles: Look at how things will change as heel increases and note where vulnerability lies. We recently ran into a crew who had lost an engine due to the shape of the cockpit. During the design phase, the location for an engine instrument recess was placed within easy reach of the person at the helm. In an upright trim-and even at 30 degrees of heel-all was well, but in a knock down when the cockpit began to flood, the engine instruments ended up in a low spot, and despite their sealed all-weather design, submerging them in saltwater had not been part of the engine manufacturers gameplan. The ensuing corrosion took out the panel and the alarm system, and a novice crew failed to notice the changes in sound and smell as a raw-water blockage in the cooling system went critical.

Those headed offshore need to pay special heed to the companionway and have a feel for what angle of heel sends water down an open hatch. Whats a surprise to many is that the first part of the hatch to reach the water may be the top rather than the lower portion of the companionway. Sticking in a washboard or two will help keep a breaking wave from sloshing below, but it may be of little use in a deep knockdown.

Getting in and out: One of the most important safety features of a good boat is the transitional path that leads a crew from the cockpit to the deck. Good engineering focuses on step heights, deck camber, handholds, and the quality of the nonskid surface. This transition in and out of the cockpit is one of the most repeated movements on the vessel. If a dodger, bimini, or Florida room compromises access, they become a hazard. Small, molded steps are of little help in a seaway.

There is no ideal cockpit that meets everyones preferences, and plenty of bad ideas still persist. No matter what your aims are as a sailor, some things deserve to take precedence. Ample space for entertaining friends for sundowners dockside is nice, but comfort underway, including ergonomic seats for sitting or napping, and secure places to steer and stand watch when the boat is heeled should be a higher priority.

Likewise, sight lines and sensible sheet arrangements should come before drink-holders. Next time you prowl the boat show, spend some time exploring the cockpit and comparing features. It is the hub of the boat.

Rating cockpit attributes is a worthwhile endeavor for a serious boat shopper. Start by rating component parts. It will allow you to more effectively compare and contrast one boat with another, according to your specific sailing plans and needs.

For example: Above, we have focused on seven key cockpit attributes and rated five new boats accordingly. Below is a brief explanation of each of the criteria selected. The result of the data table is not a winner-take-all report card. It’s a means of determining what has been emphasized in a specific cockpit design on a wide variety of very different vessels.

Rating for this attribute reflects both the location of a winch and the way in which crew members must bend, lean, or contort themselves while sheeting. We considered how efficiently a manual winch could be cranked and whether or not an electric winch could be safely operated while retaining a clear view of the sail being sheeted or hoisted.

This was not a look at the vessel’s steering hardware, rudder design, or feel of the tiller. It was more focused on helm location and how the person steering the boat could carry on the process comfortably for lengthy periods of time.

We consider the ability to quickly and efficiently reduce and add sail area to be a primary aspect of seamanship. Cockpit layouts teamed up with efficient well-chosen hardware can make or break this facet of cockpit ergonomics. Awkward winch placement, too many lines clustered together around a big bank of rope clutches, and attempting to place sheets, halyards, and reefing lines all in the helmsman’s lap with only one or two undersized winches usually lead to lower ratings.

Collision avoidance requires seeing what’s about to cause trouble well ahead of time, and anything shy of a 360-degree angle of view detracts from the process. We were concerned about view angles and obstructions ranging from dodgers, to deck-sweeping headsails, cabinhouse bulkheads, and other design features that limit the helmsperson’s field of vision. Aboard many multihulls, there’s a growing trend toward providing one perch that offers an all-around view. But when the vessel is operating on autopilot and no one is in the elevated helm seat, watchkeeping efforts are hampered.

When floating on an even keel, it’s easy to get in and out of most cockpits. However, a modest heel of 15 degrees can turn wide-open cockpits with awkward coamings and narrow sidedecks into a hazard. Getting around on a vessel in a seaway requires good nonskid, an abundance of ready handholds, and an unobstructed pathway in and out of the cockpit. Seats need to be usable underway, and the dodger, companionway, and bimini must work in concert.

Short Handing

Because most cruisers sail short-handed, we are always on the look out for features that make watchkeeping more user friendly. These include line leads and winch layouts that allow headsail trimming from the helm and may even offer the chance to tuck or shake a reef from the confine of the cockpit. Crew alone on deck also benefit from deeper-welled open space. Giving the short-handed crew protection from seeping seas and offering well-placed hardware goes a long way to ensure safe, efficient passagemaking.

Entertaining

At anchor and in port, the cockpit changes from an operations center to a backyard patio. Gone is the need for seakeeping attributes, and what counts is how well the area at the aft or center portion of the boat stacks up as a place for stationary fun. Tables that can serve dinner for six or drinks for 10 get high marks. Transoms that fold down, offering access to the sea, are also a current rage. It’s no surprise however, that many of the attributes that drive high scores for entertaining earn a lower grade at sea—the reason many designers and builders have spent time developing fold-up swim platforms and wellreinforced drop-leaf tables ready for sea duty.

VALUE GUIDE: Comparing Cockpit Design

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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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Parts of a Sailboat

Sailboats share many parts with other boats, such as keels, decks, and sometimes engines. But parts like halyards, sheets, and blocks are unique to sailboats.

Sailboats require four main parts to operate: a hull, mast, sail, and rudder. The hull is the body of the boat, and all other parts are directly or indirectly connected to it. The mast is a long pole that serves as a guide and mounting point for the sail. The sail catches the wind and propels the boat, and the rudder directs the boat and acts as its steering.

Here are all the main parts of a typical cruising sailboat , including hardware, lines, controls, cabin items, and a rundown of common sailing terminology.

Table of contents

Port, Starboard, Bow, Stem, and Stern

Before we get into the parts of a sailboat, let’s get a handle on sailboat direction. The bow of the boat is the front (forward), and the stern is the rear (aft). The stem is the forward-most part of the bow and determines its shape. These words describe the general area of front and back.

When determining port and starboard, picture looking down on the boat with the bow oriented forward. The port side is the left side of the boat, and the starboard is the right side. Now picture yourself at the controls of your boat.

If your lookout sees an obstacle off the port bow, which direction should you look? That’s right—the obstacle is forward and to the left of you. Now, we’ll go over the basic parts of a sailboat.

Basic Parts of a Sailboat

What are the basic parts of a sailboat? These are items that are essential to the operation of the boat and universal across most sailing craft. Every sailor should know where these parts are and what they do. Here are nine fundamental sailboat parts, their function, and why they’re important.

The hull is the ‘boat’ itself. It comprises the frame of the boat, the skin that keeps the water out and serves as the mounting point for everything else on the boat (both directly and indirectly). Simply put, if you punch a hole in the hull, water will come into the boat. Sailboat hulls are constructed most commonly out of fiberglass or hardwood (such as white oak), but some boat hulls are made out of aluminum, steel, and even a material called ferrocement.

The deck is the platform that covers the hull. It’s the place where you walk when you’re not inside the boat. Most people would consider the deck as any place ‘on top’ of the hull. The deck serves as a mounting point for essential boat hardware such as the mast and winches. We’ll get into those later; just think of the deck as the visible top area of the vessel. Decks are often made of fiberglass as well, but traditional boats use teak wood planking in this area. You’ll often find abrasive anti-slip material on the deck, as sailors often walk across it in wet conditions.

The keel is the structural backbone of the boat. It’s located in the bottom of the hull and serves as a sort of ‘spine’ to which all frame members are mounted during construction. The keel is an essential part of the boat and cannot be broken or damaged. You’ll often hear the term ‘keelboat’ in the sailing community. This word describes a sailboat with a long and deep keel, which is like a thin fin that runs the length of the hull. Keelboats are seaworthy vessels, as the elongated hull adds stability and keeps the boat on a straight track.

Centerboard

Many sailboats don’t have a long, deep keel, but they still need some sort of fin to keep the boat tracking straight. To substitute a long keel, many boats utilize a dagger-like board called a centerboard . This plate protrudes underneath the center of the boat, usually between one and three feet below the bottom of the hull. Centerboards are often retractable, which is great for towing and beaching. Centerboards are most common on small sailboats designed for inland or coastal cruising.

The cockpit is usually located in the rear of the boat. It features seating for the crew and controls for the steering, sails, and engine. The cockpit is the command center of the sailboat and often features storage lockers under the seats. Many cockpits are self-draining, which means they’re located above the water line and clear themselves of water accumulation. Some sailboats have enclosed cockpits for off-shore sailing. In a typical cruising sailboat , the cockpit usually takes up ⅓ of the total length of the boat or less.

The mast is the big pole extending from the deck of the sailboat. It connects the sail to the boat and serves as a frame for all sails carried by the vessel. The mast is a key part of the sail plan and helps determine what kind of boat you’re looking at. Most sailboats have just one mast, but others have numerous masts. A schooner, for example, has two masts and a specific sail plan. A yawl also has two, but each mast serves a separate function.

The rudder steers the boat and is located on or under the stern of the vessel. Rudders are an essential part of the boat, and they’re particularly sensitive to impact or misalignment. On some boats, the rudder is completely invisible when in the water. Other boats have retractable rudders for beaching or towing. Fundamentally, a rudder is just a plate that’s hinged to move side to side. It’s connected to the tiller or the helm, which we’ll cover in a bit.

The sail is what propels the boat, and most boats have more than one. The aft (rear) sail on a single-masted boat is called the mainsail , and it’s the largest of the two primary sails. The triangular forward (front) sail is called the jib, and it’s generally smaller than the mainsail. Other sails include the spinnaker, which is like a loosely-mounted parachute that flies in front of the boat during conditions of low wind.

The boom is a hinged rod that extends perpendicular to the mast. It’s mounted on the lower part of the mast, and it controls the side-to-side position of the mainsail. The best way to remember the boom is to consider what happens when it swings side to side. If you’re not paying attention, a swinging boom could give you a nice crack on the head. Think of the boom as the throttle of the boat. If you’re properly pointed relative to the wind, pulling in the boom will increase the speed of the boat. This is where the bottom of the sail connects to the mast. The boom is also connected to the deck and adjustable using a winch and a crank.

Here is some of the hardware you’ll find on a typical sailboat. These items are usually mounted to the hull, on the deck, or to the mast. Boat hardware consists of control systems and other items that are essential to the operation or integrity of the boat.

Cleats are the universal mounting points for ropes on the deck. Cleats are used for tying up to the dock, securing lines, and tethering important items that can’t fall overboard. There’s a special kind of knot called a ‘cleat knot,’ which is essential to learn before sailing. A properly tied cleat will stay secure in almost all conditions, and it’ll be easy to untie if the need arises. An important distinction must be made for clam cleats, which are spring-loaded sets of jaws that secure rigging lines that need to be adjusted frequently.

Block is a nautical word for a pulley. Blocks (pulleys) are everywhere on a sailboat, and they’re an essential part of the rigging system. Blocks distribute and regulate force. For example, a deck-mounted block can change the direction of a line from vertical to horizontal, allowing you to apply a horizontal force to lift something vertically. Blocks also reduce the force required to lift heavy loads and help make adjustments more precise.

Winches are cylindrical mechanical devices that transmit force. Winches are often located on either side of the boat. They’re multi-directional like a socket wrench and feature one-way locking mechanisms for raising, lowering, tightening, and loosening lines. Winches have a hole in the top for a crank, which makes it easy to wind rope in and out. Winches are present on almost every medium to large sailboat. They’re either manual or electrically-powered.

A hatch is a watertight or water-resistant door used to enter the cabin or storage compartment of a boat. Hatches can be flush with the deck and hinged, threaded like a large screw, or they can slide back and forth. The purpose of a hatch is to keep water out when closed and allow easy access to the interior parts of the boat.

Tiller and Helm

The tiller and helm are used to control the direction of the rudder and steer the boat. Usually, a boat has either a tiller or a helm. The tiller is the most basic steering control and consists of a simple rod connected to the rudder or rudder shaft. Tillers move side to side and point in the opposite direction that the boat steers. The helm is essentially a steering wheel, and it operates the same way that a car steering wheel does. The helm is connected to the rudder by complex mechanical or hydraulic linkage.

Mast and Sail Components

Mast and sail components are referred to as ‘rigging’ in most cases. These items are part of the wind-powered propulsion system of the boat. You’ll operate these systems to control the speed of the boat. Here are three common sail components that you’ll need to understand before hitting the water.

Stays are the lines that secure the mast to the boat. Usually, the mast is bolted or tied to the deck of the boat; but much of the load and pressure created by the wind is transferred to the stays. Stays are usually made of strong stainless steel cable. Losing a stay at sea is a serious problem, as these small cables keep the mast from collapsing.

Halyards are the ropes used to hoist and lower the sail on the mast. They also hoist flags, spars, and other components that need to be raised and lowered. Halyards are usually found on the mast and are fixed to cleats or winches around the boat.

Sheets and halyards are often confused, but they serve a very different function. Sheets are the control lines of the sail. These ropes control how far in or out the sail is, and they’re usually found connected to the jib (jib sheet) and the mainsail (mainsheet). Sheets are controlled by winches and blocks and secured onto cleats or clam cleats on the deck. Sheets can be controlled from the cockpit of the boat.

Navigation components are the parts of the sailboat used to find direction and alert other boats of your position. These four items aren’t the only navigation items found on sailboats, but they’re the most common.

This item should be self-explanatory, but it’s essential nonetheless. A compass is arguably the most basic and important marine navigation item. It shows you what direction you’re heading. Sailboat compasses are precise instruments designed to display an accurate heading no matter how much the boat rolls up and down or side to side. Compasses are usually mounted in the cockpit, in clear view of the captain.

Charts are old-fashioned navigational tools and indicate important information such as water depth and the location of ship channels. Learning to read and purchasing charts is essential, even in the age of modern GPS navigation. When all else fails, a chart can help guide you and your vessel to safety and away from hazardous areas. No electricity is required.

Navigation Lights

Navigation lights are mandatory beacons located around the boat. These lights help other boats figure out where you are and where you’re going. Sailboats are required to have red and green bow lights. Red indicates port, and green indicates starboard. This is how boats determine if they’re looking at your bow or stern. Other lights, such as a white stern light, a mast light, are also necessary during specific circumstances. Check your state requirements for lighting.

VHF radios are the standard marine over-the-air communication system. You can use a VHF radio to communicate with the coast guard, other boats, harbors, towing services, and drawbridges. It’s important to learn and write down the specific channels and call signs for each situation, as you need to be able to properly communicate on the radio.

The cabin is the ‘below decks’ area of the sailboat and usually contains living quarters for the captain and crew. Not all boats have cabins, and cabin size varies widely. Some sailboats have rudimentary cabins with basic sleeping accommodations and sitting headroom. Other boats have full standing headroom, shower and wash facilities, full-size kitchens, and separate staterooms for sleeping and sitting. The cabin is usually located forward of the cockpit. Here are some common sailboat parts located within the cabin.

The berth is the sleeping area of a boat. Berths are often convertible, which means they fold or rearrange into a table and seating area. There are numerous kinds of berths. The ‘V’ or ‘vee’ berth is a triangle-shaped sleeping area located in the bow of the boat. Side berths typically convert into couches or settees, and pole berths are essentially cots that roll up and stow away easily.

The bilge is the bottommost interior part of the boat. It’s usually located under the floor in the cabin. When water finds its way into the boat, it drains down to the bilge and gets pumped out by bilge pumps. Bilge pumps are an essential piece of hardware, as they keep the boat dry and prevent sinking. Some boats have a wet bilge, which means it’s always full of water (and supposed to be). Most boats have a dry bilge.

Portlights are watertight windows located in the upper part of the cabin. They can usually be opened or secured using threaded latches. Portlights are generally smaller than traditional portholes and offer a watertight barrier between the inside and outside of the cabin. They’re also useful for ventilation.

Gimballed Utilities

A gimbal is a special type of hinge that keeps an item vertical when the boat rolls. Oil lamps are commonly fitted to gimbals, so they stay upright when the boat bobs around. Stoves are also gimballed, which is extremely useful for cooking or boiling water when the weather gets rough.

Head is the nautical term for a toilet. Most medium-sized sailboats have compact wash facilities that sailors refer to as the ‘head,’ or a porta-potty at the bare minimum. A sailboat’s bathroom usually consists of a marine toilet, a sink, and often a shower with a drain in the floor.

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Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Sailboat Parts: Your Complete Essential Guide

• June 10, 2024

Have you ever wondered what makes a sailboat sail? How does it stay afloat, move forward, and change direction? What are the different parts of a sailboat and what do they do?

If you are a sail enthusiast or a sailing beginner, you might have asked yourself these questions at some point. Understanding sailboat parts is not only fascinating, but also essential for maintaining your boat and ensuring a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

I remember the first time I sailed on a sailboat. It was a sunny day and the wind was perfect. I was so excited to hop on board and feel the breeze on my face. But as soon as I stepped on the deck, I realized I had no clue what I was doing. There were so many ropes, pulleys, levers, and knobs. I felt like I was in a foreign land. The captain of the boat was kind enough to explain some of the basics. In this blog post, I’ll share to you everything you want to know about sailboat parts.

• 2 Mast and Boom
• 3 The Sails
• 5 Keel and Centerboard
• 6 Rudder and Tiller
• 7 Sailboat Parts and Accessories
• 8 Conclusion

The hull is the main body of the sailboat. It has a curved shape that allows it to cut through the water with minimal resistance.

The hull is the foundation of any sailboat, the part that floats on the water and supports the rest of the boat. The hull has several key components that affect its performance and safety. Let me tell you more about them.

The hull is made of different materials, depending on the type and size of the boat. Some common hull materials are fiberglass, wood, and metal. Fiberglass is lightweight, durable, and easy to repair. Wood is traditional, beautiful, and warm. Metal is strong, heavy, and resistant to corrosion.

The hull has several parts that you should know:

• Deck : The top surface of the hull. It is where you stand, sit, and walk on the boat. It also has various fittings and equipment, such as cleats, winches, hatches, and rails.
• Keel : The underwater fin that runs along the bottom of the hull. It provides stability and prevents the boat from drifting sideways. It also acts as a counterweight to the force of the wind on the sails.
• Cabin : The enclosed living space on the boat. It usually has a cockpit, a galley, a head, and a berth. It is where you can shelter from the weather, cook, eat, sleep, and store your belongings.
• Waterline : The point where the hull meets the water. It determines how much of the hull is submerged and how much is exposed. The waterline changes depending on the weight and distribution of the load on the boat.
• Bilge : The lowest part of the hull. It is where water collects from leaks, rain, or waves. It usually has a pump that removes the water and prevents flooding.
• Bow : The front part of the hull. It is where the boat points and leads the way. It has a pointy shape that helps it slice through the water and waves.
• Stern : The rear part of the hull. It is where the boat follows and trails behind. It has a flat or rounded shape that helps it push the water and create a wake.
• Rudder : The movable fin at the stern. It is connected to a tiller or a wheel that controls its angle. It is used to steer the boat and change its direction.

The hull is one of the most important parts of a sailboat. It affects its speed, maneuverability, comfort, and safety. It is essential to keep the hull in good condition and check it regularly for any cracks, leaks, or damage. A well-maintained hull will ensure a smooth and enjoyable sailing adventure.

Mast and Boom

The mast and boom are the vertical and horizontal poles that support and control the sails. They are connected by a hinge called the gooseneck. The mast and boom are essential for harnessing the wind and adjusting the sail angle and shape.

The mast is the tall pole that stands upright on the deck. It can be placed at the front, middle, or rear of the boat, depending on the sail plan and design. The mast placement affects the balance, stability, and performance of the sailboat. A mast that is too far forward or backward can make the boat hard to steer and prone to tipping.

The mast has several parts that you should know:

• Boom Vang (Kicking Strap) : A device that attaches the boom to the mast. It controls the boom height and prevents it from lifting up when sailing downwind. It also helps to flatten the sail and reduce drag.
• Mast Step : The base of the mast. It is where the mast is secured to the hull or the keel. It can be fixed or adjustable, depending on the type of boat and mast.
• Masthead : The top of the mast. It is where the halyards, the forestay, and the backstay are attached. It can also have a wind indicator, a light, or an antenna.
• Spreaders : The horizontal bars that extend from the mast. They reinforce the mast and keep the shrouds at an angle. They also help to shape the sail and prevent it from rubbing against the mast.
• Topping Lift : A line that runs from the masthead to the end of the boom. It supports the boom when the sail is not in use. It also allows the boom to be raised or lowered when reefing or furling the sail.
• Backstay and Forestay : The wires that run from the masthead to the stern and bow of the boat. They support the mast and keep it from bending or falling. They also hold the jib or the spinnaker in place.

The mast can be made of different materials, such as aluminum or carbon fiber. Aluminum is the most common and affordable material. It is strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant. Carbon fiber is the most advanced and expensive material. It is stiffer, lighter, and more aerodynamic than aluminum. It also reduces the weight and windage of the mast, which improves the sail efficiency and speed.

The sails are the fabric sheets that catch the wind and propel the boat forward. They are the most visible and recognizable parts of a sailboat. They can have different shapes, sizes, and colors, depending on the type and purpose of the boat. The sails can also be changed or adjusted to suit the wind and weather conditions.

The main types of sails are:

• Mainsail : The largest and most important sail on the boat. It is attached to the mast and the boom. It provides most of the power and drive for the boat. It can be hoisted, lowered, or reefed using the halyard, the sheet, and the reefing lines. It can also have battens, which are stiff rods that help to maintain the sail shape and prevent it from flapping.
• Jib : The smaller and triangular sail that is attached to the forestay. It is located at the front of the boat. It helps to balance the boat and increase the speed and maneuverability. It can be trimmed or furled using the sheet and the furling line. It can also have different sizes and shapes, such as genoa, yankee, or staysail.
• Spinnaker : The large and colorful sail that is used for sailing downwind. It is attached to the masthead and the spinnaker pole. It creates a lot of lift and drag, which pushes the boat forward. It can be set or doused using the halyard, the sheet, and the guy. It can also have different shapes and designs, such as symmetrical, asymmetrical, or gennaker.

The sails can be made of different materials, such as Dacron or Mylar. Dacron is the most common and traditional material. It is durable, stable, and easy to handle. It is suitable for cruising and recreational sailing. Mylar is the most modern and high-tech material. It is lighter, stronger, and more resistant to stretching and UV damage. It is suitable for racing and performance sailing.

The sails can also have different sail plans, which are the combinations and arrangements of the sails on the boat. Some common sail plans are:

• Sloop : The simplest and most popular sail plan. It has one mast and two sails: a mainsail and a jib. It is easy to sail and versatile for different conditions.
• Cutter : A variation of the sloop sail plan. It has one mast and three sails: a mainsail, a jib, and a staysail. It is more stable and efficient for sailing upwind and in heavy weather.
• Ketch : A sail plan that has two masts and three or more sails: a mainsail, a mizzen sail, a jib, and sometimes a spinnaker. The mizzen mast is shorter and located behind the main mast. It is more balanced and comfortable for long-distance cruising and sailing in light winds.
• Yawl : A sail plan that is similar to the ketch, but with the mizzen mast located further back, near the stern of the boat. The mizzen sail is smaller and mainly used for steering and trimming the boat. It is more maneuverable and responsive for sailing in narrow waters and changing winds.

The rigging is the system of wires, ropes, poles, and hardware that support the mast and control the sails. It is one of the most complex and essential parts of a sailboat. It allows the sailor to adjust the sail shape, angle, and tension, and to optimize the boat’s performance and safety.

The rigging can be divided into two categories: standing rigging and running rigging.

• Standing Rigging : The fixed and permanent rigging that holds the mast in place and maintains its shape. It includes the shrouds and the stays, which are the wires that run from the mast to the hull or the deck. The standing rigging can be tightened or loosened using the turnbuckles, which are the fittings that connect the wires to the chainplates or the terminals.
• Running Rigging : The movable and adjustable rigging that controls the sails and their position. It includes the halyards, the sheets, and the reefing lines, which are the ropes that run from the mast or the boom to the sails or the cockpit. The running rigging can be pulled or released using the winches, the cleats, and the clutches, which are the devices that apply or release tension on the ropes.

The rigging also has several components and functions that you should know:

• Halyard: A line that hoists or lowers a sail.
• Sheet: A line that trims or eases a sail.
• Reefing Line: A line that reduces the sail area by folding or rolling a part of the sail.
• Furling Line: A line that wraps or unwraps a sail around a roller or a spar.
• Guy: A line that controls the spinnaker pole or the gennaker tack.
• Vang: A line that controls the boom height or the sail twist.
• Cunningham: A line that controls the sail luff tension or the sail draft.
• Outhaul: A line that controls the sail foot tension or the sail camber.
• Boom: The spar that is attached to the mast and the mainsail. It controls the sail angle and shape.
• Gaff: The spar that is attached to the mast and the top of the sail. It is used for four-sided sails, such as gaff-rigged or lug-rigged sails.
• Spinnaker Pole: The spar that is attached to the mast and the spinnaker. It holds the spinnaker away from the boat and creates a symmetrical shape.
• Bowsprit: The spar that extends from the bow of the boat. It holds the spinnaker or the gennaker forward and creates an asymmetrical shape.
• Block: A device that has one or more pulleys or sheaves. It is used to change the direction or the mechanical advantage of a line.
• Shackle: A device that has a U-shaped body and a pin or a bolt. It is used to join or fasten two or more parts of the rigging.
• Fitting: A device that has a specific shape or function. It is used to attach or adjust a part of the rigging. Some examples are turnbuckles, terminals, chainplates, goosenecks, and eyes.

The rigging is one of the most important parts of a sailboat. It affects the mast stability, the sail efficiency, and the windward performance of the boat. It requires careful attention and maintenance to ensure its proper function and condition. A well-rigged sailboat will make sailing easier and more enjoyable.

Keel and Centerboard

The keel and the centerboard are the parts of the sailboat that prevent it from drifting sideways due to the wind. They also provide directional stability and balance to the boat. They are located at the bottom of the hull and extend into the water.

The keel is the fixed and permanent part that runs along the length of the hull. It has a fin-like shape that creates a lateral resistance against the water. It also has a weight or a bulb at the bottom that acts as a counterbalance to the wind force on the sails. The keel can have different types, such as:

• Fin Keel : A keel that has a narrow and deep fin. It is the most common and modern type of keel. It offers high performance and maneuverability, especially in upwind sailing. It also reduces the drag and the wetted surface of the hull. However, it also increases the draft and the risk of grounding in shallow waters.
• Keel Centerboard : A keel that has a shallow and wide fin with a slot. It also has a movable board that can be lowered or raised through the slot. It is a hybrid type of keel that combines the advantages of both a fin keel and a centerboard. It offers good performance and versatility, as it can adjust to different water depths and sailing conditions. However, it also adds complexity and maintenance to the boat.

The centerboard is the movable and adjustable part that can be lowered or raised through a slot in the hull. It has a flat or curved shape that creates a lateral resistance against the water. It is usually found on smaller and lighter boats, such as dinghies and catamarans. The centerboard has several benefits, such as:

• Shallow Draft : A centerboard allows the boat to sail in shallow waters, as it can be raised to reduce the draft. It also enables the boat to beach or anchor closer to the shore. However, it also reduces the stability and the performance of the boat, as it reduces the weight and the resistance of the hull.
• Maneuverability : A centerboard allows the boat to turn and tack more easily, as it can be raised or lowered to change the balance and the angle of the boat. It also helps the boat to point higher into the wind, as it reduces the leeway. However, it also increases the drag and the turbulence of the water, as it creates a gap in the hull.

The keel and the centerboard are important parts of a sailboat. They affect the speed, the direction, and the comfort of the boat. They also require careful attention and maintenance to ensure their proper function and condition. A well-designed and well-adjusted keel or centerboard will make sailing smoother and more enjoyable.

Rudder and Tiller

The rudder and the tiller are the parts of the sailboat that steer and control the direction of the boat. They are located at the stern of the boat and connected by a hinge. They work together to change the angle and the pressure of the water flow around the hull.

The rudder is the movable and vertical part that extends into the water. It has a fin-like shape that creates a sideways force on the water. It is used to turn the boat left or right, depending on the direction of the force. The rudder can be made of different materials, such as wood, metal, or fiberglass. It can also have different designs, such as:

• Wheel Steering : A rudder that is controlled by a wheel that is mounted on a pedestal in the cockpit. It is the most common and comfortable type of rudder. It offers a smooth and precise steering, especially in large and heavy boats. It also allows the sailor to sit or stand in different positions and have a better view of the sails and the surroundings. However, it also adds weight and complexity to the boat, as it requires a system of cables, pulleys, and gears to connect the wheel to the rudder.
• Tiller Steering : A rudder that is controlled by a tiller that is attached directly to the rudder. It is the simplest and most traditional type of rudder. It offers a direct and responsive steering, especially in small and light boats. It also allows the sailor to feel the feedback and the pressure of the rudder and the water. However, it also requires more physical effort and skill to steer the boat, as it requires the sailor to move the tiller back and forth and to balance the boat.

The tiller is the movable and horizontal part that controls the rudder. It has a stick-like shape that extends from the rudder to the cockpit. It is used to push or pull the rudder left or right, depending on the desired direction of the boat. The tiller can also have different types, such as:

• Straight Tiller : A tiller that has a straight and simple shape. It is the most common and basic type of tiller. It offers a direct and easy steering, as it follows the movement of the rudder. It also allows the sailor to adjust the length and the angle of the tiller, as it can be fitted with an extension or a joint.
• Curved Tiller : A tiller that has a curved and ergonomic shape. It is a more advanced and comfortable type of tiller. It offers a smooth and natural steering, as it follows the shape of the cockpit and the sailor’s hand. It also allows the sailor to have a better grip and control of the tiller, as it can be fitted with a handle or a knob.

The rudder and the tiller are essential parts of a sailboat. They affect the course, the maneuverability, and the safety of the boat. They also require careful attention and maintenance to ensure their proper function and condition. A well-functioning and well-adjusted rudder and tiller will make sailing easier and more enjoyable.

Sailboat Parts and Accessories

Besides the main parts of a sailboat that we have discussed, there are also other parts that are important for sailing. They are used for steering, adjusting, securing, anchoring, or protecting the boat. They can have different names, functions, and locations, depending on the type and size of the boat. Some of these parts are:

• Steering : The devices that are used to steer and control the boat. They include the tiller, the wheel, and the autopilot. The tiller and the wheel are the manual and physical steering devices that are connected to the rudder. The autopilot is the electronic and automatic steering device that is programmed to follow a course or a wind angle.
• Winches : The devices that are used to adjust the rigging tension and the sail shape. They are mounted on the deck or the cockpit. They have a drum and a handle that are used to wind or unwind a line. They can be manual or electric, depending on the power source and the size of the boat.
• Blocks and Pulleys : The devices that are used to enable efficient sail handling and rigging control. They are attached to the mast, the boom, the deck, or the cockpit. They have one or more sheaves or wheels that are used to change the direction or the mechanical advantage of a line. They can have different sizes, shapes, and types, depending on the load and the function of the line.
• Cleats : The devices that are used to secure the ropes and the lines. They are fixed on the deck or the cockpit. They have a pair of horns or a cam that are used to lock or release a line. They can have different designs, materials, and sizes, depending on the type and the size of the line.
• Turnbuckles : The devices that are used to adjust the rigging tension and the mast shape. They are located at the ends of the shrouds and the stays. They have a body and two screws that are used to tighten or loosen the wire. They can have different shapes, sizes, and materials, depending on the type and the size of the wire.
• Anchoring : The devices that are used to anchor and secure the boat to the bottom of the water. They include the anchor, the windlass, the chain, and the rode. The anchor is the device that digs into the seabed and holds the boat in place. The windlass is the device that hoists or lowers the anchor. The chain is the metal link that connects the anchor to the rode. The rode is the rope or the cable that connects the chain to the boat.
• Safety : The devices that are used to protect and rescue the boat and the crew in case of emergency. They include the life jackets, the PFDs, the flares, and the communication devices. The life jackets and the PFDs are the devices that are worn by the crew to keep them afloat and visible in the water. The flares are the devices that are fired or launched to signal distress and attract attention. The communication devices are the devices that are used to communicate with other boats or the coast guard.

These are some of the other parts of a sailboat that you should know. They are important for sailing and maintaining the boat. They also require careful attention and maintenance to ensure their proper function and condition. A well-equipped and well-maintained sailboat will make sailing safer and more enjoyable.

Sailboat parts are the components and devices that make up a sailboat. They are essential for sailing and maintaining the boat. They also affect the performance, the safety, and the enjoyment of the boat and the crew.

Understanding sailboat parts is not only fascinating, but also beneficial for sail enthusiasts and sailing beginners. It can help you to:

• Appreciate the design and the function of a sailboat.
• Improve your sailing skills and knowledge.
• Optimize your boat’s performance and efficiency.
• Maintain your boat’s condition and quality.
• Prevent or solve problems and emergencies.
• Enhance your sailing experience and adventure.

We hope this blog post has helped you to learn more about sailboat parts and their impact on sailing. We also hope it has inspired you to explore and enjoy the wonderful world of sailing.

Thank you for reading and happy sailing! 😊

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Parts of a Sailboat: Essential Components Explained

Sailboats are fascinating vessels that have been used for centuries to explore and navigate the world's oceans. These boats harness the power of the wind to propel themselves across the water.

To fully appreciate and understand sailboats, it's important to familiarize yourself with their various parts and components.

There are several vital parts to a sailboat that help it function smoothly on the water. These components can be broadly divided into the hull, the sailing hardware, and the living quarters.

Understanding each component's role in maintaining the boat's speed, stability, and maneuverability will enhance your sailing experience and allow you to tackle various challenges out on the water.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding sailboat anatomy is essential for appreciating the art of sailing
• Knowledge of rigging, sails, stability, and navigation is crucial for a smooth sailing experience
• Sailboats vary in types and size, each with its own unique characteristics and requirements

Sailboat Anatomy

The hull is the main body of a sailboat, providing buoyancy and stability in the water. It's crucial for keeping us afloat and is typically made of materials like fiberglass, wood, or metal 1 .

The shape and design of the hull can vary, depending on the type of sailboat.

There are various parts of the hull that are essential to know, such as the bow (forward part), stern (aft part), waterline, bilge, and rudder 1 .

The deck is the horizontal surface that covers the hull of a sailboat. It's where I walk, sit, and operate the boat.

The deck is an essential part of the sailboat because it provides structural strength and supports features such as the mast, rigging, and winches 2 .

Some key deck components include the bow, stern, lifelines, cleats, and hatches for accessing the cabin below.

The cockpit is the area where I control and steer the boat, usually located towards the stern 3 .

It can be either an open or enclosed space, depending on the boat's design and intended use.

Key components I find in the cockpit are the helm, tiller, or wheel for steering, as well as the navigation and communication instruments. The cockpit also usually contains the primary winches, lines, and clutches for sail control 3 .

The cabin is located below the deck and is the living space on a sailboat 4 .

It offers shelter from the elements and is typically where I find berths for sleeping, a galley for cooking, a head for bathroom facilities, and storage for personal belongings.

The cabin layout and size can vary greatly depending on the boat's size and design 4 .

Rigging Components

The mast is the tall vertical spar that supports and extends the sails on a sailboat . It stands on the boat's hull, usually at its center, and serves as the backbone of the sailboat's rigging system.

In my experience, there are various types of mast s, such as single masts, double masts, and even triple masts, depending on the design and size of the sailboat.

The boom is the horizontal, supporting spar that attaches to the foot (bottom edge) of the mainsail and runs perpendicular to the mast.

It helps control the shape and angle of the sail relative to the wind, enhancing the boat's performance.

I always make sure that the boom is securely attached to the mast and that all necessary hardware is in good working condition.

Standing Rigging

Standing rigging refers to the set of fixed components that support the boat's mast and keep it properly aligned and positioned.

The primary components in this category are the stays and shrouds.

Stays are the wires or rods that run forward, aft, or diagonally from the mast, while shrouds run from the mast to the sides of the sailboat.

These components are crucial to the structural integrity of the rigging, so I always check them for wear and tear, and proper tension.

• Stays : These can be further divided into forestays, backstays, and side stays.
• Shrouds : These include upper, intermediate, and lower shrouds, depending on their position.

Running Rigging

Running rigging encompasses the adjustable components of a sailboat's rigging system that help me control the sails' position and tension.

Key elements of running rigging are halyards, sheets, and blocks.

• Halyards : These are the lines (ropes) used to hoist (raise) and lower the sails. On my sailboat, I use a mainsail halyard, jib halyard, and a spinnaker halyard when needed.
• Sheets : They are the lines I use to control the angle of the sails relative to the wind, adjusting their trim for optimal efficiency. The mainsheet, jib sheet, and spinnaker sheet are the most common ones I encounter.
• Blocks : Blocks or pulleys are essential for making my work easier when handling the rigging. They help redirect the force in the lines and provide mechanical advantage when I need to tension the sails or handle the sheets.

Sails and Sail Handling

The mainsail is the primary sail on a sailboat and is attached to the mast and boom. It plays a crucial role in propelling the boat forward by capturing the wind.

The mainsail consists of three edges: the luff , which is the forward edge, the leech , the aft edge, and the foot , the bottom edge.

To control the shape of the mainsail, I can use the following techniques:

• Adjust the tension on the outhaul , which controls the foot tension.
• Adjust the tension on the halyard to control the luff tension.
• Modify the boom vang tension to control the leech tension.

Headsails are the sails located in front of the mast. They include the jib and the genoa .

A jib is a smaller sail, which is easier to handle and suitable for moderate to strong wind conditions. The genoa is a larger headsail that provides more power in lighter winds. Both these sails feature a luff, leech, and foot similar to the mainsail.

When using a jib or genoa, I can trim the sail by adjusting the sheet (the line that controls the angle of the sail relative to the wind) and the lead position (which is where the sheet attaches to the sail).

By properly trimming the headsail, I can optimize its performance and maintain a balanced sail plan. The guide to sail anatomy is helpful for understanding specific parts of a sail.

A spinnaker is a specialized sail designed for sailing downwind, away from the wind's source. It is a large, lightweight, and billowing sail, constructed from a thin fabric that captures the wind from behind and propels the boat forward.

When setting up a spinnaker, I handle the sail by using:

• Tack line : A line that controls the sail's lower corner, where it meets the bow of the boat.
• Halyard : A line that hoists and lowers the sail.
• Sheet : The line that controls the angle of the sail relative to the wind.

Spinnakers can be challenging to handle due to their size and sensitivity to wind gusts. However, with practice and proper sail handling techniques, I can use the spinnaker effectively to enhance my downwind sailing performance and enjoyment.

Keel and Stability

There are several types of keels that serve different purposes and provide varying levels of stability to a sailboat. The most common types of keels are fin keels , bulb keels , wing keels , bilge keels , and lifting keels .

• Fin keels are quite popular and extend straight down from the hull. They provide a great balance between stability, performance, and ease of movement in the water. You can read more about fin keels in this Illustrated Guide .
• Bulb keels consist of a fin keel with a heavy bulb at the bottom to lower the center of gravity and improve the boat's stability.
• Wing keels feature horizontal "wings" to enhance the sailboat's ability to sail close to the wind and minimize drift.
• Bilge keels are twin keels that run parallel along the port and starboard sides of the hull, typically found on smaller sailboats.
• Lifting keels are adjustable keels that can be retracted upwards to decrease the boat's draft, making it easier to navigate shallow waters.

Some sailboats also have canting keels , which can pivot from side to side to provide maximum stability when sailing at extreme angles.

A critical component of keel design is the ballast, which is typically made of heavy materials like lead or iron. The main purpose of the ballast is to provide stability by lowering the sailboat's center of gravity and counteracting the heeling forces generated by the wind on the sails.

Different types of keels have varying ballast configurations. For example, fin keels have ballast concentrated in a narrow fin, while bulb keels have the ballast located in a bulb at the bottom of the keel. In each case, the ballast ensures that the sailboat remains stable and upright, even in challenging sailing conditions.

In some smaller sailboats, such as dinghies, it's common to find a centerboard design instead of traditional keels. A centerboard is a retractable plate that provides lateral resistance, allowing the boat to sail upwind. In this case, the sailboat relies on the weight of the crew as ballast to maintain stability.

Steering System

The rudder is one of the essential components of a sailboat's steering system. It's mounted vertically on the stern (rear) of the boat and functions as the primary means of steering by deflecting water flow, which in turn changes the boat's direction.

There are different types of rudders such as the spade rudder, which is a common type used in modern sailboats. A spade rudder is fully submerged in water and not connected to the hull, giving it better maneuverability and control.

The tiller is a simple and traditional method for controlling the rudder. It is essentially a long lever attached directly to the top of the rudder.

I find that using a tiller offers me direct and immediate feedback from the rudder, making it easier to feel the boat's response to my steering inputs. Tiller steering is often preferred by many sailors on smaller sailboats due to its simplicity and connection with the sailing experience.

Larger sailboats tend to have wheel steering systems in place of a tiller. As a helmsman , I use the wheel to control the direction of the boat by turning it clockwise or counterclockwise.

The wheel is connected to a system of cables and pulleys, which in turn steer the rudder, allowing me greater leverage and control over the boat's steering.

Various parts of a sailboat's steering system:

Navigation and Safety Equipment

As a sailor, I rely on my compass to navigate and maintain a steady course.

There are two main types of compasses on sailboats, the fixed-mount compass and the handheld compass .

The fixed-mount compass is typically installed near the helm , providing me with continuous bearing information. Meanwhile, having a handheld compass on board serves as a backup in case the main compass fails or is damaged.

Safety is paramount when I am sailing, and having secure lifelines around the deck is essential.

Lifelines are made of stainless steel wire and are attached to the stanchions around the boat. I use them to minimize the risk of falling overboard while moving on the deck, particularly in rough seas or strong winds. They are crucial for my safety and the safety of my crewmates, ensuring we all stay onboard and secure.

When anchor ing my sailboat, I rely on an anchor and a windlass to secure the boat in place.

There are different types of anchors, such as the CQR , Danforth , and Bruce anchors, each with their unique design that suits different seabed conditions.

I typically use a windlass to deploy and retrieve the anchor. A windlass is a mechanical device that makes handling heavy anchors more manageable.

It is essential to regularly inspect and maintain the windlass and anchor to ensure they function as expected when anchoring in various weather conditions and locations.

In addition to the anchor, I also make use of a chain and rode , which connect the anchor to the sailboat:

• Chain: The chain attaches to the anchor and adds weight, helping the anchor dig into the seabed.
• Rode: The rode connects the chain to the boat and can be made of rope or a combination of rope and chain.

Sailing Hardware

Winches are an essential part of a sailboat. They help control the lines and sheets by providing mechanical advantage.

I find that winches are most commonly used for tightening or loosening the jib sheets and the mainsheet. They consist of a drum, a handle, and gears that allow for smooth operation.

The sailboat hardware available on the market today includes different types and sizes of winches to suit various boats and sailing needs.

When using a winch, it's important to wrap the line around the drum in a clockwise direction, making sure there are no overlaps or twists.

To control the tension, I always ensure that the winch handle is in the "ratchet" position. This allows me to easily apply force in one direction and hold the line in place when not turning.

Cleats are another vital piece of sailing hardware that come in various shapes and sizes. Their primary function is to secure lines, particularly when adjusting tension on sails.

I often use cleats on my boat to ensure that sheets and halyards stay in place while sailing.

Horn cleats are the most common type, with two projecting horns that allow the line to be passed around them in a figure-eight pattern.

Cam cleats, on the other hand, have two spring-loaded jaws that grip the line. This allows for easy adjustment and quick release if necessary.

In my experience, blocks are critical components of a sailboat's rigging system. They serve as pulleys that help redirect lines and reduce friction, making it easier to control sails.

Blocks are available in various materials such as stainless steel or aluminum . They also come with different configurations like single, double, or triple sheaves depending on the specific application.

For instance, I use a mainsheet block system in conjunction with a vang to control the tension and angle of the mainsail. Similarly, topping lift lines may pass through blocks to help raise and lower the boom easily.

Auxiliary Systems

One important auxiliary system in a sailboat is the motor . Sailboats often have an inboard or outboard engine , which provides extra maneuverability when needed.

This is particularly useful when the wind conditions aren't favorable. The motor's main components include the engine, transmission, and propeller . These work together to move the boat through the water when there's limited or no wind available.

A boat's electrical system is responsible for powering various devices onboard. The critical aspects of this system include the battery, alternator, and wiring, which connect different electronic components.

Some common devices that rely on the electrical system are navigation systems, LED lights, electronic sensors, and communication equipment.

In addition to navigation and communication, the electrical system also powers the bilge pump .

The bilge pump is a vital piece of equipment that helps remove water accumulated in the boat's bilges, preventing the vessel from flooding.

Here's a simple list of typical electrical system components:

• Switches and fuses
• Electronic devices (navigation, communication, etc.)

A sailboat's plumbing system usually consists of a freshwater system and a wastewater system.

The freshwater system supplies water to the boat's faucets, showers, and sometimes engine cooling. It includes a water tank, water pump, and piping to distribute the water.

The wastewater system, on the other hand, deals with disposing of used water and waste.

This generally includes a black water tank for toilet waste and a grey water tank for water from sinks and showers. These tanks need to be regularly emptied and maintained to prevent foul odors and maintain the boat's sanitation.

To recap, the plumbing system's main components are:

• Black water tank (toilet waste)
• Grey water tank (sink and shower waste)

Living Quarters

The galley is the sailboat's kitchen, where food is prepared and cooked. It's typically a small, compact area in order to maximize space and efficiency.

In most sailboats, the galley features a stove, sink, refrigerator, and storage.

Storage space, such as cabinets and drawers, is crucial because every inch of space is valuable on a sailboat.

To ensure user-friendly access to the utensils, cookware, and food items, sailboats may have organized storage solutions .

As for the saloon , it serves as the primary living area on a sailboat. This is where the crew gathers to relax, dine, and socialize.

The saloon usually features comfortable seating, a dining table, and additional storage space s.

I often find that this space is customizable, allowing for the conversion of tables into extra sleeping areas when necessary.

Natural light is also an essential aspect of the saloon, so it often has hatches and windows to allow sunlight in while providing a view of the surroundings.

Berths are the sleeping quarters on a sailboat. These designated areas, often equipped with cushions or mattresses, provide the crew with a place to rest during extended voyages.

Berths come in various sizes and configurations , ranging from single to double or bunk beds, depending on the size of the sailboat and the number of crew members.

As with other spaces on the sailboat, thoughtful design and attention to maximizing storage space is key.

In many berths, additional storage areas can be found under the beds or in nearby compartments.

Types of Sailboats

A monohull sailboat , as the name suggests, consists of a single hull. This design is common and comes in various forms, including cruising sailboats and racing sailboats .

One advantage of monohulls is that they generally have better upwind performance compared to multihulls.

A cruising sailboat is versatile and well-suited for long-distance sails, equipped with amenities to make life on board comfortable.

In contrast, racing sailboats prioritize speed and performance and often feature lightweight materials and specialized designs.

Multihull sailboats include both catamarans and trimarans, featuring two or three hulls connected by a central platform.

Catamarans have a pair of parallel hulls, which provides a wide and stable platform that reduces heeling. According to this guide , catamarans are known for their speed, comfort, and spaciousness, making them popular choices for vacationing and cruising.

Trimarans, on the other hand, have three hulls - a central hull flanked by two smaller outriggers.

The trimaran design offers a balance between stability, speed, and maneuverability, resulting in a quick, agile, and comfortable sailing experience.

A dinghy is a smaller sailboat , usually less than 15 feet in length.

Dinghies are simple, easy to maneuver, and relatively affordable. They can be used for various purposes, such as recreational sailing, sailing lessons, or as a tender for a larger sailboat.

Dinghies can have one or two sails and either a centerboard or a daggerboard to provide lateral resistance to the water.

Many beginners start their sailing journey with a dinghy because it's an excellent way to learn essential sailing skills before venturing onto larger sailboats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different components of a sailboat's rigging?

The rigging on a sailboat consists of a system of ropes, wires, and chains that support the mast and sails. It can be divided into two main categories: standing rigging and running rigging.

Standing rigging includes the shrouds and stays, which are responsible for providing support to the mast.

Running rigging comprises all the lines used to control the sails, such as halyards, sheets, and outhauls.

Rigging components help sailors effectively control the sailboat and its movements.

How do the various parts of a sailboat function together?

The different parts of a sailboat work together to provide an efficient sailing experience.

The hull is the main body of the boat, while the keel provides stability and prevents sideways motion. The rudder is responsible for steering.

The mast and sails capture wind energy and enable propulsion. Rigging is crucial for controlling the position of the sails and ensures the boat's maneuverability.

This helpful guide offers an illustrated explanation of sailboat parts and their functions.

Can you name the sails typically found on a sailboat?

A common type of sailboat is the sloop, which has two sails: the mainsail and the jib.

Other sails that can be found on sailboats include the spinnaker, a large, lightweight sail used for downwind sailing, and the genoa, a larger version of the jib for increased sail area in light wind conditions.

You can read more about sail types in this comprehensive guide .

What is the purpose of the keel on a sailboat?

The keel is a critical component of a sailboat as it provides stability and prevents the boat from moving sideways in the water.

It acts as a counterbalance to the forces exerted by the wind on the sails and ensures directional control. The keel also contributes to the boat's hydrodynamic properties, reducing drag and promoting smooth movement through the water.

How is the mast of a sailboat structured and what are its key parts?

The mast is a vertical pole on a sailboat responsible for supporting the sails and rigging.

It is typically made of aluminum or carbon fiber for strength and lightness. Key parts of the mast include the spreaders, which help distribute the load along the shrouds, and the tangs, which are attachment points for stays and shrouds. Masts also have fittings for halyards and other rigging components essential to sail control.

What are the common features found in a sailboat's cockpit?

The cockpit is the central area of a sailboat where the crew controls the boat's operation. It typically includes the steering wheel or tiller (connected to the rudder), engine controls, and instruments for navigation and communication.

Additionally, the cockpit may feature winches and cleats for handling the sheets and other lines. You might also find seating or benches for the crew as well as storage compartments. More details on sailboat features can be found in this informative article .

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Parts of a Sailboat & Sailing Terminology

A sailboat consists of several key components that work together to harness wind power and navigate through water. Anyone learning to sail or interested in the mechanics of sailboats should know what these parts are called and what they do.

Main parts of a sailboat

While not all sailboats have exactly the same structure, there are a few features that are found on almost every sailboat:

• Boom : A horizontal pole that is attached to the mast. It holds the bottom of the mainsail.
• Cleats : Fittings used to secure lines.
• Cockpit : The recessed area where the crew sits and controls the boat.
• Forestay and Backstay : Steel cables (stays) that support the mast from the front and back.
• Halyard : A line used to raise sails.
• Jib / Headsail : A smaller sail located in front of the mast.
• Keel : A large beam that runs along the bottom of the hull from bow to stern, which prevents the boat from sliding sideways through the water.
• Mainsail : The large, primary sail attached to the mast and boom.
• Mast : A vertical pole that supports the sails.
• Rudder : Used to steer the sailboat, controlled by a tiller or steering wheel.
• Sheets and Halyards : Lines (ropes) used to control and adjust the sails.
• Tiller or Wheel : Used to control the rudder for steering.
• Outhauls : Control the shape of the sail’s foot
• Vangs : Control the vertical angle of the boom
• Winches : Used to adjust sail tension and control lines.
• Shrouds : Cables that support the mast laterally.
• Rig : The arrangement of masts, sails, and supporting rigging that propels the vessel. This refers to standing rigging (the fixed rigging that supports the mast) and running rigging (the adjustable rigging used to control the sails).

Types of rig

The choice of rig depends on factors such as the size of the boat, intended use, and sailing conditions. Each rig configuration has its own advantages in terms of performance, ease of handling, and versatility.

• Sloop: Single mast with a mainsail and one headsail, the most common modern rig
• Cutter: Similar to a sloop but with two headsails
• Ketch: Two masts, with the shorter mast (mizzen) forward of the rudder post
• Yawl: Two masts, with the shorter mast aft of the rudder post
• Schooner: Two or more masts, with the shorter mast forward
• Catboat: Single mast stepped far forward with one sail

All parts of a sailboat work together to allow the sailboat to harness wind power, maintain stability, and navigate through water efficiently.

Parts common to all boats

Sailboats also share several parts that are common to all boats :

• Hull : The body of the boat that provides buoyancy and supports all other components.
• Deck : The top surface of the boat.
• Bow : The front of the boat.
• Stern : The back of the boat.

Sailing terminology

Sailing terms are fundamental to communication while on board a sailing vessel, and are used frequently to describe parts of the boat, sailing maneuvers, and wind directions. Anyone learning to sail or participating in sailing activities should understand what these terms mean before they start.

• Port: The left side of the boat (facing forward from within the boat).
• Starboard : The right side of the boat (facing forward from within the boat).
• Aft: Towards the back (stern) of the boat.
• Windward: The direction from which the wind is blowing.
• Leeward: The direction opposite to windward.
• Tacking: Turning the bow of the boat through the wind to change direction.
• Jibing: Turning the stern of the boat through the wind to change direction.

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Pedestal & Cockpit Accessories

Edson has an extensive line of Pedestal and Cockpit Accessories to make your time on the water safer and more enjoyable.  From convenience items like Drink Holders to Single Lever Engine Controls, we have hundreds of products for your boat.

Edson Sticker

Brake Knob for Side Brake (335 Pedestals)

Engine Control Sleeve for Clutch on 816ST-45

Internal Clutch Lever Assembly (For 816ST-45 Engine Controls)

420 Bulkhead Steerer Rebuild Kit (314-420)

Tef45 - 2 Gram Capsule (960-A-1466-2G)

Stainless Steel Pedestal Upgrade Kit - for 6-7/8" dia. Pedestals

Vision Series Compass Bowl for 3.5" and 4" Dial Compasses

Stainless Pedestal Guard Mounting Feet - pair

Stainless Top Plate - 6-7/8" for 335 & 336 Pedestals

Pedestal Guard Pipe Only - 1-1/8" - Straight 58"

Pedestal Guard Kit - 58" Straight - 6-7/8" Top Plate

Bronze Control Clevis - 33 Series

Engine Control Cable - 33 Series Cable

Stainless Throttle Handle

Single Lever Engine Control for Edson Pedestal #336 with 58" Straight Guard

Standard Clutch and Throttle Control - 6-7/8"

Brake Maintenance Kit 316-689)

3" Aluminum Hex Head Pedestal Bolt (646-3HEX)

Conduit & Bearing Lubricant - 3oz tube of Teflon Grease

Stainless Steel Pedestal Upgrade Kit - for 6-7/8" dia. Pedestals with Black Clutch

Vision Series Compass Bowl for 5" Dial Compasses

Stainless Top Plate - 8" for 400,402 & 464 Pedestals

Pedestal Guard Pipe Only - 1-1/8" - Angled 58"

The edson sticker will replace any worn or lost stickers that are found on Edson pedestals and mounts. UV resistant to hold up out on the water. Dimensions: 1.375"x3"

Stainless steel brake knob for side breaks on Edson's 335 pedestals. 

Delrin bushing to replace a worn or broken bushing on the internal clutch lever assembly for 816ST-45 engine controls.   ID = 1"

Internal Cutch Lever Assembly to replace parts in 816ST-45 engine controls. Includes bushing and fasteners

Bring new parts to your steering system with the Steerer Rebuild Kit. Edson's #314-420 Steerer Rebuild Kit replaces all of the important component parts that make up 420 Bulkhead Steerers.   #314-420 Pedestal Maintenance Kit includes: (2)...

THE ULTIMATE IN CORROSION PROTECTION. Protects, Lubricates, stops corrosion, prevents seizing and galling.  Won’t wash away in fresh or salt water or detergents.  MareLube™ TEF45™ is designed specifically for high...

Edson's Stainless Pedestal Upgrade Kit includes all of the items that have been upgraded from plastic to stainless steel over the years. This version is for #335 Pedestals (6-7/8" Dia. top) with a left-side fore and aft clutch handle. Kit...

Edson’s Compass Bowl allows the mounting of a 3.5" or 4" Dial flush-mount compass between the guard pipes. Ideal for installations where there is limited space on the pedestal for the compass or the compass needs to be mounted away from instruments...

Edson Pedestal Guard Mounting Feet are available in pairs as a direct replacement for Edson’s black plastic feet. Gasket and bushing allow for mounting 1”, 1-1/8” or 1-1/4” guard pipes. Nuts and washers included.  ...

Edson’s Stainless Top Plate is made of investment-cast 316 Stainless and polished to a mirror finish. It will accommodate 1”, 1-1/8” and 1-1/4” pedestal guard tubing on 9-1/2” centers with the provided plastic bushings...

Replacement Pedestal Guard Pipe for 58" Tall, Straight, 1-1/8" diameter guard tubing only. This version is for Edson #335, 336 and 337 Pedestals & #400, 402, 464 CDi Pedestals   Does not include Top Plate or Mounting Feet.

Edson Pedestal Guard Kit includes Stainless Guard Pipe, Top Plate and Mounting Feet. This version is for Edson #335, 336 and 337 Pedestals with 6-7/8" Top Plates. 58" tall, straight.Provides protection for your compass, a convenient handhold and the...

Edson's Bronze Engine Control Clevis is designed to attach the Engine Control Cable to the Engine Control Handles on the pedestal. Accommodates #816 and #870 Engine Controls and Series 33 Engine Control Cables. 

The proper engine control cables will have a dramatic effect on the performance of your engine control. Edson carries only premium high-efficiency cables that feature a coiled inner core that can take bends much better than solid core cables. 33 Series...

Upgrade your older Edson controls with these stainless replacements. Highly polished, marked “Fast-Slow”. Can be easily retrofitted onto existing Edson engine controls. Includes mounting screw.IMPORTANT: These handles are only for Edson's...

Edson’s Single Lever Engine Control for Edson Pedestal #336 with 58" Straight Guard provides simple, safe, one-handed operation while maneuvering your boat under power. Mounted on the Pedestal with the 58" Straight 1-1⁄8”...

Edson’s Standard Clutch and Throttle Control features matching stainless control handles which are conveniently located on each side of the pedestal and are clearly marked for “Forward” and “Reverse”, “Fast”...

Just like your car, your boat’s wheel brake needs periodic relining. This kit includes all you need to make your brake work like new again. Compatible with 335, 400, and 410 pedestals with a side mount brake.    Click Here to see the How...

Since 1987, all Edson Pedestals use the exclusive Edson Hex Head Aluminum Bolts. With this improvement they lock in place and require only one person to tighten them. They fit flush with the base and the aluminum alloy is the same as the base thus...

Edson’s Conduit Lubricant is a Teflon grease for use in all Edson Systems.  Ideal for both conduit and needle bearing use.   827-3 Conduit Lubricant - 3oz tube of Teflon Grease   !WARNING! DO NOT USE PETROLEUM BASED GREASE...

Edson's Stainless Pedestal Upgrade Kit includes all of the items that have been upgraded from plastic to stainless steel over the years. This version is for #335 Pedestals (6-7/8" Dia. top) with a horizontal clutch lever. Kit Contents: Stainless...

Edson’s Compass Bowl allows the mounting of a 5" Dial flush-mount compass between the guard pipes. Ideal for installations where there is limited space on the pedestal for the compass or the compass needs to be mounted away from instruments that...

Edson’s Stainless Top Plate - 8" for 400,402 & 464 Pedestals is made of Investment-cast 316 Stainless and polished to a mirror finish. It will accommodate 1”, 1-1/8” and 1-1/4” pedestal guard tubing on 9-1/2”...

Replacement Pedestal Guard Pipe for 58" Tall, Angled, 1-1/8" diameter guard tubing only. This version is for Edson #335, 336 and 337 Pedestals & #400, 402, 464 CDi Pedestals Does not include Top Plate or Mounting Feet.

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