How to Rig a Mast

Being dismasted at sea is every sailor's worst nightmare. But for sailors who have experience and a little bit of mechanical creativity, the voyage, and perhaps even your life, can be saved with a well executed jury rig. Even though every dismasting represents a different state of affairs onboard, following a few crucial steps will help you safely rig a mast.

Instructions

1. Assess the mast's condition. Generally, when masts break they do so near the upper spreaders, leaving a sizable stump that you can use. A remaining section of the mast is a big advantage, especially as you jury rig a new mast. However, you need to weigh the value of preserving the mast with the danger of holing the hull. If part of the mast is hanging overboard, if there are sharp edges exposed or if the seas are high it's safer to cut the rigging and let the mast sink or stream behind the boat as a sea-anchor.

2. Keep what you can and cut what you can't. You need to clear the boat of any wreckage and preserve whatever can be saved. Any kind of splintering is a hazard and should be discarded. If you have straight pieces, though, cut them from the rigging. You will need to use wire cutters, a sharp knife and a marlin spike to get this done. A riveting kit and some zinc chromium paste will come in handy.

3. Raise and secure your mast. If you have part of the mast remaining then you need to secure it with some ad hoc rigging. You can rig halyard blocks to your new mast and then run new lines as a substitute for shrouds. A free topping lift can also be used for a stay.

4. Cut new sails. In most cases of dismasting, the mainsail gets destroyed along with the mast. Even if the sail remains intact, however, it needs to be cut to meet the measurements of the new mast. So, get to work with a measuring tape, some sharp knives and a sail sewing kit to refit your sail. Before you raise the sail double check the stability of the mast and consider setting your jib to give the boat some temporary stability.