sailboat mast accessories

Rigging - Turnbuckles , Toggles , Wire & Rod Components, Norseman Cones & Fittings.

Furling Systems - Systems and replacement parts from a variety of Manufacturers.

Traveller Systems - Adjustable Track Systems for Mainsheet and other applications.

Sailboat Hardware - Rope Clutches, Blocks, Track & Fittings, Winches, etc.

Custom Parts - Custom items, or those out of production or otherwise unavailable.

Consultation - Special projects, research, or information not detailed on-site.

Copyright   1996 - 2024,  Rig-Rite, Inc.        Disclaimer          Web Site maintained by The WATER Group

DWYER MAST & RIGGING

The Aluminum Mast C ompany

Quality Sailboat Masts, Booms, Hardware and Rigging Since 1963

Dwyer Mast & Rigging manufactures high-quality sailboat masts, booms, hardware, and rigging. Originally founded in 1963 as Dwyer Aluminum Mast Company, the legacy continues as an OEM supplier by taking advantage of improved manufacturing methods to offer a wide range of products and services for the marine industry.

Our Services Include

Mast & Boom Extrusions   //  Dinghy & Keelboat Spars   // Standing & Running Rigging  //  Hardware & Blocks   //  Round Tubing   // OEM Supplier // Waterjet Technology //  & more...

Manufacturing for the Marine Industry

Our formula for growth is simple - we never compromise with quality. By taking advantage of improved manufacturing methods and an ever-increasing volume, we have been able to maintain competitive prices and continue to provide much needed product to sailors, riggers, and boat builders. 

Products & Servic es

Cont act Us

U.S. Spars --->

U.S. Spars is your source for Z-Spars for Masts, Booms, Rigging, and all associated hardware

“ Sailing starts with U.S. Spars”

U.S. Spars is part of Z-Spars Group in France, the World’s Largest Spar Builders. Z-Spars has been supplying the sailing world with quality products since 1973. US Spars supplies quality brands like Hunter, Beneteau, Com-Pac and Performance Cruising. We would be happy to quote your mast, boom, and rigging needs.

US Spars takes pride in excellent customer service for Business or Individual customers. Please take advantage of our online ordering and fast shipping for all of your small part needs using our easy to use boat look-up to find your boat model and view a diagram with part numbers for easy ordering. For quotes on special orders please use our easy to use quote page for a speedy response.

U.S. Spars looks forward to getting you back on the water!

Questions? – send us an email at  [email protected]  or  [email protected]

Comments are closed.

• Shopping Cart
• Quote Request
• Pipe Bending
• Product Support
• Digital Tension Gauge
• Promtional Items
• Hayn Rigging

Find the parts for your Boat Model Here

• Sparring Partners
• Help Wanted

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,

Emma Delaney

As a hobbyist, I was hesitant to invest in expensive CAD software, but CADHOBBY IntelliCAD has proven to be a cost-effective alternative that delivers the same quality and performance.

https://www.cadhobby.com/

Leave a comment

You may also like, guide to understanding sail rig types (with pictures).

There are a lot of different sail rig types and it can be difficult to remember what's what. So I've come up with a system. Let me explain it in this article.

The Ultimate Guide to Sail Types and Rigs (with Pictures)

The Illustrated Guide To Boat Hull Types (11 Examples)

How To Live On a Boat For Free: How I'd Do It

How To Live on a Sailboat: Consider These 5 Things

Own your first boat within a year on any budget.

A sailboat doesn't have to be expensive if you know what you're doing. If you want to learn how to make your sailing dream reality within a year, leave your email and I'll send you free updates . I don't like spam - I will only send helpful content.

Ready to Own Your First Boat?

Just tell us the best email address to send your tips to:

Dwyer Mast & Rigging

Base, 420E Vang Cleat

C420 Carbon Tiller Extension (Dwyer)

C420 Forestay (LP)

Call to order - fj mast scv (unrigged), call to order - mast, 420 scholastic, unrigged, call to order - mast, cfj cal scholastic, unrigged.

ILCA Boom Sleeve

ILCA Carbon Tiller (Dwyer)

ILCA Carbon Tiller Extension (Dwyer)

ILCA Traveler Line - Dyneema

Shackle, twist, 5mm, generic.

C420 Forestay (Zim)

C420 Gooseneck Universal

C420 Shroud

C420 Shroud (Link Plate Style)

C420 Shroud (LP/Vanguard/PS2000)

C420 Shroud Link Plate

C420/FJ Boom Gasket

C420/FJ Gooseneck Assembly

C420/FJ Gooseneck Bracket

C420/FJ Gooseneck U Bracket

C420/FJ Hounds Assembly

C420/FJ Hounds Bracket

C420/FJ Main Halyard Sheave

• TECHNICAL SUPPORT

LEADERS IN EVERY DETAIL

Every Seldén rig is carefully thought out, down to the last detail. All the way from the materials and functions of the different parts of the rig, to dimensioning the right rig for each individual boat. Each component contributes to the performance of the whole rig. That is the Seldén way – experienced yachtsmen behind every aspect of design, product development and production.

CONVENTIONAL MASTS FOR YACHTS

Spareparts and aftermarket service

Since 1992 we have engraved a unique code into the mast section. We call it the mast ID number and you find it at the lower end of the aluminium section. This number tells us when your mast was built and what parts were used all the way down to nuts and bolts. The mast ID number includes the designation of your mast section which enables you to find part numbers in our catalogues and sparepart lists, all to be found under Technical Support. A corresponding number is to be found in the forward lower end of your boom. Best of all – take a close look at the components on your mast and you will find part numbers on them. Can it be simpler? Complete rigs and spareparts are sold by our World wide network of independent rigging companies.

Our conventional masts for 26-80 feet yachts are divided in two categories. The longitudinal oriented sections and the lateral oriented. Which one we select depends on the chain plate locations of the boat and number of spreaders.

LONGITUDINAL MAST SECTION

These sections are used for rig configurations with in-line spreaders or moderate spreader angles. The relationship between the length / width is 1,9 in order to create longitudinal stiffness allowing higher forestay load tensioning the backstay. Running backstays can often be avoided and the risk of mast pumping is also reduced. These rigs normally come with multiple pairs of spreaders and they are designed for the popular MDS sliders (Multi Directional Support).

LATERAL MAST SECTION

For rigs with large spreader angles, lateral stiffness is of higher importance than longitudinal stiffness. This is the result of a large spreader angle creating longitudinal stability, whereas the lateral stability is achieved by the geometry of the mast section. This makes for a mast section which is wider and rounder than the corresponding longitudinal section and therefore the number of spreaders can be reduced. These sections are popular for upgrading a boat from the 1970-90’s with a traditional style single spreader rig, but still with all the benefits of modern functions such as the Inner Wheel Sliders (IWS).

WHAT IS A KEELBOAT?

Seldén’s definition of a ”keelboat” is a boat sized in between a dinghy and a yacht, with a length of approximately 18-28’. These boats often have a 50% ballast ratio. Consequently, the weight of the keel represents half of the total displacement.

Tradition and development

Seldén’s seven aluminium keelboat sections feature a wealth of sophisticated and functional solutions, originating from the dinghy range and the yacht range. The sections are extruded and anodized and they are all available with a tapered top as an option. Let us design your keelboat rig or ask us for our One-design solutions.

• Keelboat masts

FURLING MASTS

A seldén furling mast lets you operate your mainsal from the cockpit. simple and convenient.

Its unique features for reducing friction and initial sail resistance make furling and reefing child’s play. And it also makes sailing safer and far easier for you and your crew. With a powered furling mast and a powered Furlex jib furler it is even easier to set, reef and handle your sails. You can work your sails single handed, without leaving the helm. Powered systems are available for yachts ranging from 35 to 70 feet.

MORE ENJOYABLE

Due to the easy handling, with a furling mast you will do more sailing and less motoring.

A Seldén furling mast makes it easy to unroll and set your mainsail. Rolling it in is just as quick and easy. As your sail is neatly stowed out of the way the instant it is rolled in, you have a clear view when manoeuvring under power.

You can set your sail to suit the weather conditions, from the safety of the cockpit.

By furling the sail vertically into the mast, you don’t have to furl very much to get a substantial decrease of the sail area.

You hoist the sail just once a season, so a small crew can manage a much larger boat.

WELL BALANCED

There are no fixed reef points, so the number of combinations between furling genoa and main are unlimited.

THE SELDÉN FURLING PRINCIPLE

The wide sail slot allows for vertical battens and a positive roach of the main sail and the sailgroove on the luff extrusion is located asymmetrically to help the sail furl easily around the extrusion.

The furling system is based on Seldén’s proven technology. Geared line driver winch, tensioned luff extrusion and the patented load distributor of the halyard swivel. All to make furling an easy and fast operation. The Seldén furling masts come with twin cable conduits, enabling the cables to run freely and well protected from all running rigging. The cable conduits also facilitate cable replacement.

EASY TO OPERATE

There is an outhaul line for rolling out the sail, and an endless line for rolling it in. It’s simple as it sounds. Or if you wish, you can operate the sail at the mast using a winch handle. The geared reefing winch mechanism runs on ball bearings, so it takes little effort to roll in the sail. Greasing holes in the mast facilitate maintenance.

Two oval holes on the port side of the mast allow for easy access to the tack attachment, sail fees, tensioning screw and halyard swivel. Just remove the composite covers and the rest speaks for itself. You can inspect the halyard swivel and carry out annual maintenance through the upper access hole.

ABSORBS ALL SAIL FORCES

The outhaul cars are fitted with horizontal and vertical wheels, enabling them to absorb forces from every direction.

TURNING BLOCK FOR CONTROL LINES

Turning blocks at the base of the mast are designed to enable the ready-spliced, endless line to be easily threaded into position. Seldén deck blocks have the same feature.

LOW FRICTION

The sail groove on the luff extrusion is located asymmetrically to help the sail furl easily around the extrusion. In addition, the rotating luff extrusion is tensioned and fitted with ball bearings top and bottom. This reduces friction between the sail and the inside of the sail compartment.

UPGRADE YOUR MAST TO ELECTRIC DRIVE

To make sail handling easier for a small crew we have synchronized an electric motor in the mast with a newly developed electric winch for the outhaul, E40i. Push a button and the sail comes out in a controlled fashion as the winch adjusts the outhaul tension in relation to the motor in the mast.  This is what we call Synchronized Main Furling.

IN-MAST FURLING MOTOR

Converting a manually operated furling mast is quite easy. Basically, the vertical shaft in the original line driver is replaced for a longer version which is connected to the motor. A clutch allows the motor to be disconnected for manual operation, if ever needed. The motor is completely integrated in the mast and connected to the Seldén Power Supply and SEL-Bus system. The motor can be retrofitted to Seldén furling masts type RB (~36-43’ yachts).

How to upgrade a furling mast to electric drive

PUSH BUTTONS

Push the ”OUT” button and the sail will start to unfurl. The E40i winch will tension up the outhaul while the mast motor feeds out the sail. The speed is increased when the ”IN” button is pushed in addition to ”OUT”. To reef, just release the outhaul from the winch and push ”IN”.

E40i ELECTRIC WINCH

The E40i winch is built up around an electric motor which is totally integrated in the drum. Only three thin cables are protruding to lead through the coach roof or the deck, no large cutouts and no external motor or gearbox. This makes for uncompromised headroom down below which is normally not the case with electric winches. The three speed operation provides a high speed gear, a moderate gear and a low speed gear for fine tuning. It is a two finger operation to start the winch and to swich gear, so a single-handed sailor can helm while adjusting the trim.

HOW IT’S CONNECTED

• Upgrade your mast to electric drive

Seldén Carbon fibre masts – the perfect mix of Craftsmanship and modern production Technology

FOR EVERYONE THAT CANNOT RESIST SPEED

Carbon composite combines stiffness and strength with low weight. Seldén low-weight carbon spars have accentuated longitudinal stiffness. This means that forestay tension can be substantially increased. All experienced racing sailors know what this means in terms of increased upwind performance. The combination of greater stiffness and reduced weight will bring you beyond the speed limits.

MANDREL FILAMENT MOULDING

Our carbon spars are designed using the latest finite element analysis backed by many years of solid engineering experience.

Our unique production method gives a unique look. We call it Mandrel Filament Moulding (MFM). The process is fully automated and computer controlled for ultimate accuracy, repeatability, efficiency and that stunning ‘Viper’ pattern.

Seldén produce over 400 carbon masts per year as well as booms, poles and bow sprits for boats including high performance skiffs, racing keelboats, IRC race boats and some of the world’s most prestigious cruising yachts. With more sailors choosing Seldén carbon spars, the pattern is obvious.

• Carbon spars
• Carbon masts

SELDÉN DINGHY RIGS – GOING FOR GOLD

SELDÉN PROFILES

Working hand-in-hand with the world’s top dinghy sailors, carefully analysing their input and feedback, enables us to produce the ultimate Seldén dinghy rig for every boat. Ever since Seldén acquired Proctor in 1997, we have improved and developed the already acknowledged excellence of the Proctor products, so that they are now, like all other Seldén products, the best of the best. Our innovative design, attention to detail, advanced testing and manufacturing have won Seldén the trust of dinghy sailors all over the world and has contributed to numerous Championship medals.

• Dinghy masts
• Class reference guide

SELDÉN DINGHY CARBON RIGS

– the Mast you buy will perform as well for you as it will for a World Champion Sailor!

IN-HOUSE SPECIALIST DESIGN TEAM

Seldén has the design expertise and software to enable us to create a mast to meet exacting performance require­­ments. During the design process the position and alignment of each fibre is precisely calculated so as to meet the required bend characteristics. This detailed design is then used to program and control our filament winding equipment.

The combination of meticulous care, long experience, and exact specifications enable us to achieve optimum performance for minimum weight.

Computer controlled laminate lay-up Carbon filaments are wound around a mandrel (male mould), under controlled tension, via a designated winding program supplied by the design team.

FILAMENT WINDING, a computer-controlled process (CNC), guarantees consistent and accurate filament fibre orientation from spar to spar. Carbon filaments can be laid from 0° (uni-directional) to leave 89° (hoops) and at all angles between to produce a wide range of bend characteristic requirements. This accurate alignment of composite filaments is vital to the performance character­istics of a carbon spar. Fibres are laid under tension, which means that we can make the most efficient material choice and supply the lightest spars on the market.

This process gives a Seldén spar a level of tube consistency unattainable via any other composite manufacturing technique. Hence, the mast you buy will perform as well for you as it will for a world champion sailor!

USE OF PRE-PREG CARBON

Only the highest grade pre-preg tows of T700 or TZ carbon fibre are used to give sailors the best stiffness-to-weight spar. This, in combination with our filament winding process, enables the highest fibre-to-resin content pre-preg to be used.

The aerospace grade pre-preg has a UV stabiliser in the resin system to give the spars a guaranteed long life, even in the sunniest of climates. More fibres and less resin, mean lighter, stiffer masts.

AUTOCLAVE CURED

The consolidation of the material to form a ready-to-assemble carbon tube is completed in our in-house 20-metre long autoclave. The combination of heat and pressure to cure the resin and consolidate the pre-preg material ensures a strong and consistent final product.

• General conditions of sale >
• Product recalls >

Cookies  |  Legal and Privacy  | Copyright © 2024

This site uses cookies

Read more about cookies .

Departments

Top Selling Products

• Copyright 1998-2024 SB Owners, LLC. All rights reserved.

• Policies | Contact Us

Sailboat Hardware

Free Shipping Over $99* - 366 Day Returns - Dedicated Customer Support

• Call Us +1-503-285-5536
• Sign in & Register
• Recently Viewed
• One Design Parts

Sunfish Parts

Shop our limited selection of remaining Sunfish sailboat parts. Stock is limited.

• Qty in Cart

Sunfish Sail Afterglow

Sunfish Sail Freedom

Sunfish Mainsheet w/ Shackle

Sunfish Sail Rings

Sunfish Racing Main Halyard

Sunfish Bridle 3 Loop (Wire)

Sunfish Bridle 2 Loop (Dyneema)

Sunfish Mast Top Cap

Sunfish Boom Cap

Sunfish Bridle 2 Loop (Wire)

Omniflex Tiller Joint Universal w/ Rope Core

Sunfish Upper Boom

Tiller Saddle

Drain Plug (Allen)

Sunfish Line Kit *Standard*

• Total: items /
• Add all to cart

Adding your products to cart

Since the 1950s, there has been no better way to play on the water than in a Sunfish. Find out why we're the go to source for dinghy sailing parts and enjoy FREE SHIPPING on qualifying orders . Our staff of Sunfish and dinghy sailing experts is on hand to answer questions about rigging a Sunfish and provide tips. Let us help you get ready to own the water in your Sunfish!

Click here for Sunfish Reference Photos

Click here for Sunfish Rigging Guide

Click here for Sunfish Parts Locator

**Product Availability - Please Read**

Due to changes in the supply chain for new Sunfish and related parts, many one design Sunfish components are currently unavailable. Products we have in stock or are able to source will be listed on this page. Other products that are unavailable may be listed elsewhere on our website for reference. Our team is working hard to find new sources for Sunfish parts and will add those to our catalog as they become available. While our selection may be limited compared to previous seasons, we remain committed to serving Sunfish sailors and will continue to offer as many of the parts, rigging, sails, and accessories you need to keep your Sunfish at its best.

Sunfish Sails & Sail Rings Sunfish sails are recognized all over the world for their bright, fun colors. We stock an extensive selection of popular recreational sails in a variety of colorways plus the classic white racing sail for the hardcore Sunfish racing sailor. Don't forget to replace your sail rings when upgrading to a new sail, and add a set of tell tails for maximizing performance. 

Sunfish Hull & Deck Parts West Coast Sailing is your source for hull and deck fittings for your Sunfish sailboat. Check out our selection of bailers, drain plugs, hiking straps, inspection ports, bridles, gudgeons, bow handles, and more.

Sunfish Covers Protect your Sunfish with a proper Sunfish cover, blade bag, or spar bag. Our covers are waterproof and resist both mildew and UV. They fit snuggly on your boat to provide max protection. Use a blade bag to protect your rudder, tiller, and centerboard, or pick up a spar bag to safely store and transport your mast and booms.

Sunfish Sailboat Lines & Line Kits Sunfish sail boat ropes and lines including mainsheets, sunfish halyards, outhaul lines, sunfish bridles and more.

Sunfish Rudder & Tiller Parts Keep your Sunfish heading the right direction with our selection of Sunfish rudder, tiller, and centerboard replacements and spare parts. We stock sunfish rudder parts, sunfish tillers and tiller extensions, centerboards, sunfish rudder pins and spring posts, pivot bolts, and more.

Sunfish Dollies & Trailers Keep things easy on shore with a Sunfish beach dolly or trailer. We stock dollies and trailers from Dynamic Dollies and Racks, Right-On, and Trailex, all designed specifically for your Sunfish! Sunfish dollies ship via our standard free ground shipping and are easy to assemble. Trailers can be shipping anywhere in the US or picked up fully assembled from our warehouse here in Portland, Oregon.

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Sign up for our newsletter to receive exclusive discounts, new product announcements, and upcoming sales.