Ratlines

Ratlines are a feature of traditional sailing ships, consisting of a set of horizontal lines tied between the shrouds to form a ladder-like arrangement. They provide a means for sailors to climb up or down the rigging in order to access sails, masts, and other components of the ship’s rig. Ratlines are usually arranged in several tiers, with each tier forming a rung between two shrouds, and are typically made from stout rope or line that is kept taut to bear weight.

Climbing ratlines requires balance and technique, as the rigging is exposed to wind, spray, and movement of the vessel. Maintenance includes inspecting for wear, fraying, and any loss of integrity in the lines or their bindings. On many ships, ratlines extend up to the tops, where riggers perform actions such as sail handling, deck maintenance, or navigation tasks. The term is most closely associated with square-rigged and other tall ships from the age of sail, though variations appear on some later sailing craft.

In historical contexts, ratlines were standard equipment on wind-powered ships from the early modern period through the 19th century and into the early 20th century. They were essential for working aloft but also posed hazards, requiring training and discipline from crew members.

The term ratlines has also been used outside nautical settings to describe clandestine escape routes that operated during the 20th century, particularly those used to help people flee Nazi-occupied Europe. These routes, often organized by networks of volunteers and intermediaries, are described in some historical accounts as “ratlines” due to their ladder-like, stepwise nature connecting different countries.