Lines on a sailboat. Guide to Selection and Use of Dock Lines Dock lines are critical components in protecting your boat while moored. You can pre-measure rode or time the drop, but putting marks every 25 feet offers a quick visual counter. Nov 1, 2017 · ROPE SPECS BREAKING STRENGTH: Greater line holding working loads are achieved by increasing the diameter of the line. What is the difference between them, and which rope to use for what line on a boat? May 11, 2023 · To recap, lines, halyards, and sheets are an essential component of any sailing vessel, and choosing the right halyard for your boat is a necessary part of outfitting your vessel. Shop marine ropes, dock lines, and accessories for reliable performance. I’ve seen many boat owners struggle to tie up their boat to a dock, and it that’s you…don’t worry. We offer a comprehensive range of products to ensure your boat's lifelines are secure, durable, and compliant with safety standards. What is the difference between them, and which rope to use for what line on a boat? Hydro Lines supplies and distributes quality lines from the world's leading manufacturers. In most cases, 15-foot lines are sufficient, but if the boat is kept in a large slip with lots of extra space, you might need 20-foot lines instead. Halyard (Jib): Line used to raise and lower a sail. Standard working loads on sheets, halyards and control lines are usually calculated at 20% of a line’s Breaking Strength. They may appear simple, but there's an entire world of intricacies behind them that enhances sailing performance. Apr 3, 2017 · In the case of leading lines back to the cockpit, you have two choices with the reefing lines: Single or Double. These critical components can degrade over time due to exposure to environmental factors and mechanical wear and tear. Use the line closest to the tying fixture when securing to a dock or bulkhead. Sheets control trim of sails such as the mainsail, jib, and spinnaker. Find everything you need at West Marine. May 8, 2025 · Discover everything you need to know about dock lines for boats, including how to choose the right type, size, and material. Many long-distance cruisers do the same on passage Jul 27, 2020 · Lines plans show a series of lines of intersection between a surface and a plane. Dock lines absorb dynamic loads caused by wind, wakes, currents, and tides. Stern Lines originate from cleats or chocks on opposite sides of the transom. In a handful of Jack lines are used in heavy weather and in periods of reduced visibility, i. Ropes made with Dyneema® have an unrivaled strength-to-weight ratio – around one-sixth of the weight of an equivalent steel-wire halyard – making them perfect for extreme conditions on the water. Dec 23, 2009 · If your boat is around 40 feet, one amidships cleat will do the job. A series of planes parallel and above the base plane are imagined at regular intervals, usually at every foot. Where necessary or desired, covers can be added to single braids to protect them from exposure to heat, abrasion, or cutting while in use. Shop our selection of pre-cut line for every May 31, 2025 · After you know your sailboat so well that you can sail her in the dark, colors don’t matter, of course. No holes in the boat and installation takes less than a minute! Mar 22, 2022 · Sails, Rigging & Deck Gear Anchoring Mooring Anchor Trip-line Tricks Sometimes, reversing the anchor-setting process is the only way out. We pride ourselves in the best quality, the best value and the best service. West Coast Sailing offers a wide range of high performance and durable sailing line that is perfect for Laser / ILCA mainsheets, control lines, and rigging. In this video, Mark explains the differences between line materials and construction and what they are best used for. Sailboat Lifeline Hardware and Accessories Fisheries Supply is your premier destination for top-quality sailboat lifeline hardware and accessories from leading brands. These lines are low stretch, durable, and hold up well in cleats. C. Shop running rigging and standing rigging today from trusted brands including Marlow, Robline, Samson, Kingfisher, New England Ropes, and more. However, any line smaller than 3/8-inch diameter is too difficult to grip. Unless the boat is being lofted, they will have little purpose as far as building the boat is concerned. Whether you’re docking at a waterfront restaurant for a quick meal, renting a transient slip for a weekend getaway, or storing your Aug 20, 2023 · Sailing ropes are made of different materials and each has different properties. Whereas the downhaul refers to the rope that brings the sail down your line Laser and ILCA Sailboat Lines & Line Kits Laser and ILCA sailing line and rigging must be able to withstand the elements: moisture, the sun's rays and in some cases, salt or even freezing rain. Imagine you are looking directly side-on to the hull, and you imagine cuts through the hull, parallel to the centre of the boat (the centre-plane, specifically). Harnesses are either stand-alone items or are integrated with offshore type inflatable life vests. 1. The keel or centerboard is attached to the bottom of Single line reefing is a system designed to make reefing a mainsail more efficient and manageable, particularly for short-handed sailors. Jul 10, 2019 · Taking into account boat length and sailing style, the attached chart suggests rope diameter and type for each piece of running rigging: Rope Diameter and Type We have a huge rope wall at Rigworks and are very proud of our selection and expertise. Learn how to draw Sailboat Line pictures using these outlines or print just for coloring. Each plane will intersect the ship's hull and form a line at the points of intersection. ” To that I’d add that a tidy boat is also a safer boat offshore. Aug 15, 2018 · We're about to sail for a short vacation , just a short hop from the Netherlands to the UK. The rigging includes many parts of the sailboat, such as the lines (sheets and halyards), mainsail, headsail (jib), boom, and mast. After they are cut and the ends are rounded we custom stitch the end loop to provide 100% line strength. Whether you're tying up at your home slip, docking for fuel, or rafting up with other boats, choosing the right lines—and using them correctly—prevents costly damage. Top Knot Is” The Original” Floating Colored Dock Lines and Mooring Products Company. How to Throw Your Dock Lines We've all seen someone throw a dock line to the dock or to another boat only for it to land embarrassingly a couple feet short. There are no firm guidelines issued by ISAF or US Sailing for when to use tethers. com Jan 2, 2025 · Discover sailboat lines and rigging for safer, more efficient sailing. Mar 8, 2024 · If you are sailing windward/leeward races which go straight upwind and then straight downwind, the most common format in sailboat racing, lay lines are your boundaries. Spring Lines keep wind blowing parallel to the dock from pushing your boat away from its secured position. Measuring scope requires knowing how much rode is deployed. Our lines are woven by Amish rope makers, then heat cut to your desired length. Jul 7, 2025 · Image by Clkr-Free-Vector-Images from Pixaby Fore-stay: Wire or line connecting the mast to the bow. We look forward to hosting you on one of our many NY Harbor cruises and sightseeing boat tours. Boaters use these lines to trim the sails, adjust their tension, and move them in or out relative to the wind. The patriotic Jun 7, 2017 · This discussion primarily applies to vee bottom boats, although the terminology is similar to those with a round bilge. Running rigging consists of the lines, sheets, and hardware that are used to control, raise, lower, shape and manipulate the sails on a sailboat. Whether you're docking, anchoring, or handling sails, Jun 16, 2011 · Boat Maintenance Cleaning Waxing Sails, Rigging & Deck Gear Running Rigging Safety & Seamanship What’s the Best Way to Clean Marine Rope? Practical Sailor tests suggest that some common practices for cleaning dock lines and boat ropes do more harm than good. This guide will help you navigate through the complex system of lines and ropes. While the International Sailing Federation (ISAF, the world governing body Jul 5, 2022 · As a boat owner, you don’t have to be an expert on dock lines, but you should know how they work and a few best practices for docking at the marina. Makes sure it has the best rope for the job with this Better Boat guide! Started in 1986, Docklines is a division of Horizons America. Wherever a rope is used, it’s called a ‘line’ and each line serves a different purpose therefore it has its own name!Running Rig- The moveable lines used to drag up and alter your sails. May 10, 2018 · Always avoid any knots in your dock lines (either deliberate or non-deliberate) as they will vastly reduce the strength of your lines. May 2, 2017 · When to wear Harnesses & Tethers US Sailing recommends wearing harnesses and lifejackets whenever conditions warrant and always when reefed, in rough weather, on cold water, at night, and when sailing short-handed or under conditions of reduced visibility. “Since you can downsize your line when you switch from polyester, you end up with smaller, lighter piles in your cockpit and less weight pulling at your sail,” says Fisher. fog or at night. We'll be sailing my BF's boat , a Victoire 1270 - a 42' blue water cruiser with a high freeboard. They directly impact a sailboat’s performance, maneuverability, and overall safety. In fact, the 2016 Safety Equipment Requirements no longer allow coated wire on coastal and ocean racing sailboats (there is a list of the 2016 racing SERs associated with lifelines at the end of this article). If you're shopping for sailboat rigging lines, you need to check this out. Shop online sailboat lines and ropes from Alpha Ropes, New England, Marlow, Samson, Yale Cordage, FSE Robline and more. We are still located in Queensland, Australia and in 2010 had a name change to Fine Line Boat Plans and Designs. You’ll Jun 14, 2016 · When boats were made of wood and men of iron, it was common practice to rig safety lines at chest height during storms. Leech (Jib): The edge of the sail between the head and clew also known as the trailing edge West Coast Sailing offer a wide selection of control lines for small sailboat vangs, cunninghams, outhauls, and more. How Single Line Reefing Works Oct 8, 2023 · Learn the differences between a sail sheet and line, their roles, materials, knots, and rigging components for successful sailing. As a result, understanding different running rigging components and their functions can help us optimize our boat’s performance and make informed decisions in Mar 16, 2025 · Boating knots play a crucial role in securing lines, fastening gear, and ensuring safety on the water. The halyard refers to the rope that pulls your mainsail up. Use of the wind is one of the oldest forms of powering a vessel. vangs, outhauls, cunninghams, reef lines, traveller lines, lead controls and downhauls. Match the diameter of the line to the application. Learning the ropes (literally!) is an important part of sailing terminology that beginners should become familiar with. Whether you're prepping for a regatta or cruising the coast, we’ve got the gear and expertise to keep your boat running smoothly. Images of tying various knots and their applications. It includes halyards, sheets, and control lines that regulate sail positioning, trim, and hoisting. Online shopping for Dock Lines & Rope - Docking & Anchoring Equipment from a great selection at Sports & Outdoors Store. Shop a wide range of affordable and high performance sheet options from the experts at West Coast Sailing. Just select your boat below and you're a couple clicks Shop Sailboat Lines and Marine Cordage for Every Application Looking for top-quality sailing rigging lines for your boat? At Fisheries Supply, we make it easy to find the perfect line for every application—from halyards and sheets to control and dock lines. Our collection of synthetic rope has the best prices on high-performance rigging lines, dyneema rope, and everything in between. Sailing lines need to be strong enough to handle any static and dynamic load, while still light enough to keep the boat balanced, agile, and fast. Here's how to avoid that. These lines are called “waterlines” and are all Classic Harbor Line yachts – both sail and power boats – offer year-round private charters and tours in New York Harbor. Sep 9, 2020 · When sailing, rope isn't usually referred to as rope. Attach stern lines after securing bowlines. Apr 20, 2009 · Renowned Welsh yachtsman Roy Williams often notes, “A tidy boat is a happy boat. Feb 25, 2025 · Understanding the Different Parts of a Sailboat and Sailboat Lines Sailboats have long captured the imagination of adventurers and romantics alike, symbolizing freedom, exploration, and a connection to the natural world. Jun 12, 2019 · Sailboat Rigging Shop By Category Polyester Running Rigging Use for many applications calling for affordable, durable multi-purpose line, such as sheets, control lines and halyards on cruising boats, handheld control lines on all types of boats. A halyard line is the rope that pulls the sail up the mast. Alternately, you may opt to strip the cover from a double braid in order to save additional weight aloft for halyard applications. Marks on the Here presented 39+ Sailboat Line Drawing images for free to download, print or share. Shop Sailboat Line by Type - Polyester, Dyneema, Technora, & More Line has come a long way in the past few decades, and current options offer great value and performance. As a top-rated New York City sightseeing tour, you’ll see all of NYC’s best tourist attractions from the water. from October 8 to November 5, 2026. The base plane is usually level with the keel. Premiumropes has different trimlines for dinghy sailing, regatta and cruising. These lines, which are essentially ropes used on boats, play a crucial role in handling and maneuvering a vessel. And don’t forget, those lines need some slack to account for tidal swings and/or changing water levels, so you don’t want to be cutting it close on length. Check our best selling options like Robline Dinghy Control and Marlow Excel Racing for performance applications or Sirius 500 for light duty or recreational use. Top Knot has worldwide name recognition in the Marine Industry for being the ORIGINAL premiere manufacturer of Floating Colored Dock Lines and Accessories. Oct 5, 2023 · #post_excerptThis month, we're on to running rigging - the various lines that you move, pull, and release to sail the boat. Mar 10, 2011 · Sheets Like halyards, sheets are an area where Spectra/Dyneema-cored lines can improve performance and even your sailing experience. For advice on selecting the right halyard, see the information at the bottom of this page. The hull carries the passengers and supports the rigging. Our halyard rope and other sailboat sheets are durable and high performing. Rigging varies for different rig types, but since most sailboats are use a sloop rig, nearly all sailboats use the following running rigging: Jan 12, 2024 · The running rigging on a sailboat is the lines and ropes controlling the sails and equipment. The terms buttocks (butt), waterlines (wl), and diagonals (diag) are referred to on the "Lines Drawing" of a set of plans which is usually on sheet 2. Designed for durability and performance, these lines are ideal for cruisers, racers, and offshore sailors. How To DIY Install Dyneema Lifelines on a Sailboat Back in April 2019, we decided to replace our original standard cable lifelines with Dyneema synthetic lifelines. Lines on sails, also known as sailboat lines, are ropes that are used to control the shape and angle of the sails. S. Jacklines may be rigged temporarily when bad weather is expected, or, especially on sailboats heading offshore, they may be left in place all the time and used as necessary. In summary, halyards are definitely part of the running rigging on a sailboat. Also, the spring lines should be the length of your boat and you’ll need at least two in your locker. Browse top line recommendations for sailboat mainsheets, jib sheets, spinnaker sheets, and more. Nov 23, 2018 · A guide to choosing the right replacement running rigging lines. Learn their names, functions, and types for a better sailing experience. Apr 8, 2016 · Boat owners are moving away from the vinyl covered 3/16” wire that has been the industry standard for years. When I set about to replace all the running rigging, I wanted the line colors to be purposeful. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll discuss why it’s important to clean sailboat lines, what supplies you’ll need, and how to clean and maintain them. But when you have crew onboard that don’t know your sailboat so well, they need all the help they can get to identify your lines. (Ropes on a sailboat are called “lines” or “sheets”) Head (Jib): Top corner of the sail that connects to the halyard which raises the sail. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned sailor, learn the anatomy of a sailboat inside out. When using spring lines while approaching the dock, remember to take up the slack gently. Sailing has fascinated humankind for Aug 9, 2023 · Short answer running rigging for sailboats: Running rigging refers to the set of lines or ropes used to control the sails on a sailboat. Read more on our history on About Us. Introduction to Running Rigging for Oct 30, 2024 · Flexible and secure, proper dock and mooring lines are crucial for your boat needs. To make off loose lines, I use three basic Dec 6, 2013 · Keep your cockpit lines neatly stowed for yourself or for entertaining with this easy DIY solution. Order our sailboat running rigging lines today for fast, free shipping on qualifying orders, and rig up your boat with the most trusted sailboat riggings around! See full list on improvesailing. One way to keep the deck free of clutter is to make sure that you have all your lines neatly stowed. Aug 12, 2010 · Mailport & PS Advisor Sails, Rigging & Deck Gear Running Rigging Sails Canvas Standing Rigging PS Advisor: Rig Loads and Reefing Lines Figuring kilo-Newtons and finding practical solutions. Inexpensive, double-braid Dacron is a fine choice for furling lines on most boats shorter than 40 feet. However May 16, 2024 · 2 Surging a line Using the warps, such as a midships line, is an effective way to bring a large boat alongside, but it needs both sensitive use of the throttle and sensitive line handling. This guide explains every crucial component—from the hull to the sails, rigging, and steering mechanisms—using detailed descriptions and diagrams. Get expert tips for optimal boat maintenance and safety. Key takeaway: If a line on a sailboat is used to actively adjust or control a sail, it's considered part of the running rigging. Jan 3, 2025 · Sailboats are marvels of engineering and artistry, combining multiple interconnected parts to harness the wind. When reefing a sail, there are two places that need tension: the tack and the clew. To truly appreciate the elegance of a sailboat, it’s essential to understand its various parts and the crucial role of sailboat lines. Lines stay soft & supple and will not rot or mildew. This article will show you how to install a safe jackline system on your boat that will prevent you from going overboard during rough weather. The ropes and lines have set names. These are the lines for all boats, from Ski Boats and Runabouts to Yachts, from Off Shore racers to the finest Houseboats, from Day sailors to Blue Water Yachts. We are happy to help you pick the best rope for your application. Do you enjoy sailing, but don’t know the best way to maintain your sailboat lines? Proper cleaning and maintenance of your sailboat lines is essential for keeping them in good condition and ensuring your safety out on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or Jun 26, 2025 · The Essentials of Sailboat Lines When it comes to sailing, understanding the fundamentals of sailboat lines is critical for every yacht enthusiast. If you are looking to replace Halyards ropes or rigging or replacing your entire running rigging, Hydro Sailing Lines is the choice for you. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various materials, fitting types, signs indicating the need for replacement, and best practices for accurate measurements. (This is the set of splicing fids that I use! It works great!) This project seemed like it would be a good option for us and fairly easy to apply Mar 24, 2019 · Boats sail better when rode, docklines, running rigging, and sail control lines are properly adjusted, and many lines are easier to adjust if common positions are marked. I had already done several projects that helped me learn how to splice Dyneema line. Control lines for a sailing boat are e. 250th anniversary, American Cruise Lines has added a fifth new itinerary to their 2026 collection of extended cruises. Sailboats range in size and complexity, but all have basically the same four components. For slips or berths, use both stern lines. . 1 The Half-Breadth Plan The bottom of the box is a reference plane called the base plane. Jan 17, 2016 · Replacing the roller-furling control line is an easy do-it-yourself job for the boat owner. Level up your docking experience today. On larger, performance boats, this might be 80 feet of high tech double braid Our selection of sailboat lines and rigging will keep you covered from bow to stern. Your boat's lifelines serve as an essential safety measure that shouldn't be overlooked. From tack to jibe, our sailboat halyards and mainsheets make it easy, durable and always the right choice. We offer a variety of high tech Lines, which generally feature a non-stretch core for strength, durable cruising lines, which are typically polyester and less expensive but still strong and durable, or Dyneema, Spectra Ensure precise and efficient sail handling with high-quality lines and running rigging. Jimmy Green Marine offer a range of braided lines suitable for use as a halyard, sheet or control line. Which Yacht Cordage is Best for Your Sailboat? This sailboat diagram will help you select sailing lines for your different sailing needs. Feb 1, 2023 · His weekly blog Inside Practical Sailor offers an inside look at current research and gear tests at Practical Sailor, while his award-winning column,"Rhumb Lines," tracks boating trends and reflects upon the sailing life. Oct 14, 2015 · The questions that matter for jackline applications are: Will the line stretch so much that a sailor can slip over the side, and will the impact be so great that it will over-strain the system or injure the sailor? Both are possible without proper design, and as well see, one material doesn’t work for all boat sizes. Anchoring is the most obvious example. West Coast Sailing offers a full selection of marine grade sailing line and rigging including One Design rigging, pre cut line, line kits, and line by the foot for halyards, sheets, control lines, and more. Mar 4, 2025 · While stainless steel remains the most popular choice for life lines, high-tech Dyneema® rope lifelines weigh less than stainless steel lifelines, which makes them popular among competitive sailboat racers. Aug 20, 2023 · Sailing ropes are made of different materials and each has different properties. Running rigging has at least one free end. It allows both the luff (front) and leech (back) of the sail to be reefed using a single control line, reducing the number of steps required to shorten sail in strong winds. Get in the cockpit, and let's cruise through this guide together! Learn how to read and understand a running rigging diagram for your sailboat. On longer boats, you can opt for a furling-line material of more esoteric double-braids with less stretch. For over forty five years the Bruce Roberts Sep 17, 2019 · Reefing is an important as it increases ease-of-use, flattens sail shape, reduces sail area, and re-positions the boat's center of effort. Jun 12, 2019 · Choosing the Right Line for Your Boat If you feel out of your depth looking at the wall of rigging above, Mark Chandler from our rigging shop is here to help. American’s 32-Day Revolutionary War Cruise will sail between Albany, New York and Washington, D. 4 days ago · In celebration of the U. I'm 5'5&quo LIFE LINES All swaged sailboat, power boat and yacht lifelines are assembled right here in our rigging shop. Shop While one’s mind immediately flashes to big colorful spinnakers and pristine white sails set on an azure blue sea, some of the most important lines for any boat, but the most important for a sailboat, are dock lines. Single or Double refers to how many reef lines are required to reef the sail properly. g. These essential components are crucial for maneuverability and sail adjustment during sailing. With Single Reef Lines, the tack and 2. Explore our sailing gear! Shop sails, rigging, winches, and apparel for your next sailing adventure. Ensure your boat stays securely docked with premium mooring lines. e. Jun 4, 2023 · Running rigging refers to the essential lines, ropes, and hardware responsible for controlling, adjusting, and managing the sails on a sailboat. 3. Apr 22, 2019 · Safety harnesses physically connect you to the boat to prevent you from falling overboard or, failing in that role, are intended to keep you from being separated from the boat. Sailors Guide to Line Splicing A How To Guide from the Experts at West Coast Sailing Learning the basics of line splicing is a great way to improve the performance and efficiency of your rigging and a useful skill for any sailor, regardless of what boats you sail. Learn expert tips for tying knots, preventing chafe, and maintaining your dock lines to keep your boat secure in any docking situation. What type of dock For sailing applications, the most common single braid is a strand line. In the post, I’ll cover 12 common questions for beginners so you’ll know what you need to know about dock lines. Shrouds for multiple masts were mounted outboard, like a row of tall stanchions reaching to the sky, providing handy attachment points the length of the ship, with vertical runners attached as needed to limit the gaps. Dec 19, 2023 · New to the world of sailing? Here's our Ultimate glossary of basic nautical terms to have you sounding like a sailor. MISSION makes premium dock lines for boating designed to last longer with colors to better match the aesthetic of your boat. At West Marine, we carry a wide Running Rigging CalculatorRunning Rigging Calculator If you know which boat you sail, you can order sheets and halyards to fit -- in about 2 minutes! Don't know your sheets and halyards specs? We do! Need new sheets or halyards but don't know the specs? Our running rigging calculator can instantly spec lines for more than 5,000 sailboats. Marine grade lines for sailboat main halyards, jib halyards, and spinnaker halyards. Bruce Roberts Sailboat and Powerboat Designs & Boat Plans for the DIY Boat Builder Bruce Roberts International, the Original Bruce Roberts Design Office began life in 1968 in, Queensland, Australia. On some small sailboats, this might be a short 20 foot length of basic 5mm line. There are several types of lines on sails, each with their specific purpose. With Double Reef Lines, the tack and clew are controlled by separate lines. Lifeline Fittings and Components Our extensive selection of lifeline accessories includes Find the correct length, diameter, and material to replace the lines on your sailboat with our expert line length guides. Tethers clip you to a fixed-location padeye or to jacklines (also called trolley lines or jack stays) that are lengths Jan 13, 2025 · Learn how to use a spring line to secure your boat and prevent unwanted movement when docking. The first line to understand is the halyard. Common Definitions & Nautical Terms including dock lines, anchor lines, mooring lines, tow lines and fender lines and hawsers. pxnkqa untm lqnee hxvieh mhq tlbwh kwnjoi bfa bfqarof mjrb