Barque

Barque

Barque (also spelled bark) is a type of sailing ship with three or more masts having the fore and main masts rigged square and only the mizzen (the aftmost mast) rigged fore-and-aft. This rigging design allows for a good balance of sailing qualities, combining the square sails' ability for a ship to run before the wind with the fore-and-aft sails' advantage in sailing close to the wind. The barque was one of the most popular types of sailing ships from the 19th century until the late 19th century, when steamships began to dominate sea travel.

Design and History

The barque's design evolved from earlier three-masted ships, which were fully square-rigged. Shipbuilders sought to improve windward performance and reduce the crew needed to handle the ship. By rigging the mizzenmast fore-and-aft, a barque could be managed with a smaller crew than a full-rigged ship, making it a cost-effective option for many shipping lines.

In the Golden Age of Sail, the barque became a preferred choice for long-distance cargo transport, including the tea trade from China and wool trade from Australia. Its design was particularly suited for the wind patterns of the Cape Horn route, where ships had to navigate the challenging winds and currents of the Southern Ocean.

Characteristics

A typical barque's size could vary significantly, but they generally ranged between 250 to 5,000 tons. They were known for their large cargo capacity, making them ideal for transporting bulk goods over long distances. The rigging of a barque, with its combination of square and fore-and-aft sails, allowed it to be relatively easily handled by a smaller crew, which was a significant advantage in the age of sail.

Notable Barques

Several barques have gained fame for their roles in exploration, trade, and training. The Cutty Sark, now preserved as a museum ship in Greenwich, London, is one of the most famous examples. It was built in 1869 for the China tea trade and later used in the wool trade from Australia. Another notable example is the Pommern, a Finnish barque that is now a museum ship anchored in Mariehamn, Åland.

Modern Use

Today, barques are primarily used as training ships for naval cadets. The rigging offers a comprehensive training platform for traditional sailing techniques, which are still relevant for understanding the fundamentals of seamanship. Examples of training barques include the Eagle, operated by the United States Coast Guard Academy, and the Gloria, owned by the Colombian Navy.

Conclusion

The barque played a crucial role in the history of maritime trade and exploration. Its design represents a significant evolution in sailing ship technology, offering a balance between cargo capacity, crew requirements, and sailing capabilities. While no longer used for commercial transport, barques continue to serve as important training vessels, preserving the skills and traditions of the age of sail.