Gaff rig [1] is a sailing rig (configuration of sails, mast and stays) in which the sail is four-cornered, fore-and-aft rigged, controlled at its peak and, usually, its entire head by a spar (pole) called the gaff.

An issue when planning a two-masted schooner's rig is how best to fill the space between the masts: for instance, one may adopt (i) a gaff sail on the foremast (even with a Bermuda mainsail), or (ii) a main staysail, often with a fisherman topsail to fill the gap at the top in light airs.

Gaff rig - has a four-sided mainsail, the head of the mainsail is guided by a gaff; Lateen rig - has a three-sided (triangular) mainsail on a long yard; The Bermuda is the most used, the gaff is a bit old-fashioned, and the lateen rig is outdated (about …

Interested in the gaff rig, but unsure whether it's for you? Trying to pick the right sail rig type can be a challenge. In order to help you out, I made this list of the advantages of the gaff rig.

Gaff rigged sailing vessels, with their distinctive ‘4-cornered-but-triangular-shaped’ sails and rich history, have been an integral part of maritime culture for centuries. This style of rigging has evolved from older sail designs, each adaptation refining its performance and versatility.

Aug 1, 2023 · A gaff rig is a type of sailing rig where the sail is controlled by a spar called a gaff, which extends diagonally from the mast. The purpose of a gaff rig diagram is to visually illustrate how all the components come together, showcasing each element’s position and function.

Oct 9, 2024 · When it comes to sailboats, the gaff rig is a unique and often overlooked option that boasts a rich history and several distinct advantages. Its design, characterized by a four-sided sail (the gaff sail) that is attached to a spar known as the gaff, offers both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits.

Gaff: The horizontal or slightly angled spar that supports the sail’s upper edge, known as the “head.” The gaff is often attached to the mast using a device called a gooseneck or jaw, which allows it to pivot up and down. Gaff Sail: The sail used in a gaff rig is typically a quadrilateral sail, with the gaff supporting its head. The sail ...

But I did want to show some additional detail of the typical gaff main sail. To recap that information, the luff is that vertical portion of the sail that is nearest the mast, and the leech is the vertical portion farthest away from the mast.

Feb 11, 2025 · The defining feature of a gaff rig is the use of a gaff, a horizontal or angled spar that extends from the mast to the upper aft corner of the sail. This allows the sail to take on a four-sided, trapezoidal shape, as opposed to the more modern triangular sails seen in Bermuda rigs.