mizzenmasten

Mizzenmasten are the aftmost masts on sailing vessels that carry three or more masts. The term refers to the mizzenmast, the third mast on a three-masted ship, or the aft mast on rigs that include three or more masts. The mizzenmast typically carries a mizzen sail and may support additional sails in some rig configurations. Its placement behind the mainmast helps balance the large fore-and-aft sail area and can aid steering, especially when sailing close to the wind or under heavy sail.

Configurations vary by rig type. On three-masted vessels—such as full-rigged ships, barques, or brigantines—the mizzenmast sits behind the mainmast and completes the standard fore-and-aft–strong sail plan. In other traditional rigs, the mizzen may be smaller or fitted with supplementary sails, and its role can range from providing extra propulsion to improving stability and maneuverability. The exact arrangement depends on the vessel’s design and purpose.

Historically, mizzenmasten allowed ships to carry more sail area without overburdening the fore part of the hull, contributing to speed and handling in long voyages. They were common on many sailing ships from the Age of Sail into the 19th century and remain a defining feature of traditional tall ships and some replica or cruising vessels.

In modern nautical terminology, mizzenmasten is the plural form referring to these aft masts; the singular is mizzenmast. The concept continues to be noted in historical accounts, nautical references, and discussions of traditional mult-masted rigs.