Tvåmastad

Tvåmastad is a Swedish adjective meaning "two-masted". It is primarily used in a nautical context to describe a sailing vessel that has two masts. These masts typically support a configuration of sails designed for efficient propulsion through the water. The specific arrangement and type of sails can vary depending on the vessel's design and purpose, but the defining characteristic remains the presence of two distinct mast structures.

Vessels described as tvåmastad can encompass a range of sizes and types. Examples include certain types of schooners, yawls, and ketches, which are all sailing rig types that commonly feature two masts. The forward mast is often referred to as the foremast, and the aft mast as the mainmast, though terminology can sometimes differ depending on the specific rig. The length and spacing of the masts, along with the sail plan, significantly influence a two-masted vessel's performance, handling characteristics, and stability. The historical development of sailing technology saw many variations in two-masted designs, each optimized for different sailing conditions and purposes, from fishing and cargo transport to recreational sailing and racing.