Fractional rig

A rig in which the forestay meets the mast below the masthead (e.g. 7/8 or 9/10 of mast height), common on modern performance cruisers.

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Related F-terms

Fore

Forward, or toward the bow.

Fake (flake)

To lay a rope down in wide, overlapping loops so it can run out without snagging.

Fend off

To push the vessel clear of an obstacle by hand, foot, or boat hook.

Fender

An inflated plastic or rubber buffer hung over the side to protect the hull when alongside…

Foresail

A collective term for a jib or genoa — any sail set forward of the mast.

Furling line

The continuous control line led back to the cockpit that drives a headsail, code zero, or …

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