The Eight Critical Parts of a Sailboat

The sailboat comprises one of man's greatest inventions

, and it was instrumental in the exploration of the world by sailors of old. That is probably why sailors still love the sailboat today. There is a special connection that is made between the captain and crew of a vehicle moving without sound or the stench of diesel fuel. It is a more civilized use of the waterways and a relaxing form of transportation.

Sailboats employ the same eight parts that they have for many centuries. Styles and materials may have improved, but the way a boat operates and uses the wind and tides is today as it was in the times of brave Ulysses.

The Hull

The hull is named so because it is the outer part of all the equipment, cargo, and personnel. It is designed to slide through the water with as little friction as possible decreasing the drag. Sizes and shapes vary but the two ends of the boat are always considered the same, the front is the bow, and the back is the stern.

The Tiller and the Rudder

With more working parts and improved designs, sailboats have steering wheels to change the direction of the ship, but in the basic design, the tiller is attached to the rudder. The tiller is a long straight handle that has a pivot point to allow moving the handle from side to side. The attached rudder responds to the movement to alter direction in the water.

Mast, the Mainsail, and the Boom

The mast is the large stationary pole at the approximate center of the boat. The mainsail is the primary wind catcher to propel the craft through the water. It attaches to the mast on the vertical side and to the boom on the horizontal side. The boom pivots from side to side to catch the wind and aid in the direction the sailboat takes.

The Jib

This is a smaller sail that is fixed in position to supply additional power by catching the wind.

The Keel

Last among the sailboat critical parts is the keel. It is a flat piece that sticks deep into the water to balance the ship and keep it from turning over in turbulent waters or a gale. Sailors must be constantly aware of the depth of the water to prevent damage to the keel.

Accomplished sailors can produce speeds of 5 to 7 knots with a thirty foot sailboat. Racing yachts can reach faster speeds, and much of that depends on the size and shape of the craft. At any speed, sailing is a continuing, fascinating hobby for the adventurer.

The Eight Critical Parts of a Sailboat

By: Jennifer Huff

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