Sloop

A single-masted rig with a mainsail and a single headsail — the commonest modern configuration.

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Related S-terms

Storm jib

A small, extra-heavy, high-visibility foresail set in survival conditions — ideally on a r…

Singlehanded

Sailing the boat entirely alone.

Starboard

The right side of the boat when facing forward.

Spar

Any pole that supports a sail — mast, boom, gaff, sprit, yard, whisker pole, or spinnaker …

Steerage way

The minimum speed through the water at which the rudder produces enough flow to steer the …

Self-tacking jib

A small headsail fitted with a track across the foredeck so the sheet travels automaticall…

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