spars

Spars are rigid poles used on sailing vessels to support sails, rigging, and the overall sail plan. They provide the geometric framework for the sails and transfer wind loads to the hull.

Common spars include masts, which provide vertical support and house standing rigging; booms, which extend along the base of fore-and-aft sails; yardarms, which support square sails; gaffs and sprits, which hold fore-and-aft sails; and bowsprits, which project forward from the bow to carry additional sails.

Historically spars were made of wood: pine, spruce, or fir. Modern spars use aluminum alloys or carbon fiber composites, offering higher strength-to-weight ratios and resistance to bending and fatigue. Sections are tapered and sometimes hollow to reduce weight. End fittings and connections (goosenecks, lanyards, collars) enable articulation and attachment to other rigging.

Spars serve as attachment points for halyards, sheets, shrouds, and stays. They must bear compression, bending, and torsional loads from wind on the sails. Proper spar design considers sail area, rig geometry, boat displacement, and safety factors.

Maintenance includes inspecting for cracks, corrosion, joint wear, and moisture; replacing worn fittings; and re-tuning rigging. Spars are replaced when they reach end of service life or suffer damage.