Yawl

Chubasco photo D Ramey Logan

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26 ft Yawl RMG J0921

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Drascombe Lugger sailboat 3912

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26 ft Yawl RMG J0796

Yawl is a two-masted sailing craft whose mainmast is taller than the mizzen mast (or aft-mast), generally in a configuration where the mizzen mast is no more than two-thirds the height of the mainmast. The mizzen sail of a yawl is smaller and is situated aft of the rudder post, distinguishing it from the similar ketch, where the mizzen mast is forward of the rudder post. Yawls are traditionally rigged with a jib-headed mainsail, a mizzen sail, and often a jib or genoa in front of the mast. The yawl rig is used on both racing and cruising sailboats to provide a balanced sail plan that can improve handling and performance under certain conditions.

Design and Function

The design of a yawl allows for a versatile sail plan that can be adjusted to suit various wind conditions and sailing courses. The smaller mizzen sail can serve multiple purposes: it can help balance the helm, assist in steering, provide additional propulsion, and help stabilize the boat in heavy weather. In light winds, the mizzen sail can act as an air rudder, helping to steer the boat when the actual rudder is less effective. The yawl's rigging configuration also makes it possible to reduce sail area in stronger winds without losing balance or maneuverability, by reefing or dropping the main sail and sailing under jib and mizzen.

History

The yawl was originally developed for fishing and cargo transport along the coasts and in the shallow waters of the Netherlands and England. Over time, the design was adapted for recreational sailing and racing. The yawl became particularly popular in the mid-20th century as a cruising sailboat, thanks to its ease of handling and the ability to sail well under a variety of wind conditions. Notable yacht designers such as Olin Stephens and L. Francis Herreshoff have contributed to the development of the yawl as a favored design for both racing and cruising sailboats.

Yawl vs. Ketch

The distinction between a yawl and a ketch is a subject of much debate among sailing enthusiasts. The primary difference lies in the position of the mizzen mast and the size of the mizzen sail. In a yawl, the mizzen mast is positioned aft of the rudder post, and the sail is smaller, primarily serving as an aid for balance and steering. In a ketch, the mizzen mast is forward of the rudder post, and the mizzen sail plays a more significant role in propulsion. This difference affects the handling characteristics and performance of the two types of vessels, with each offering advantages in different sailing conditions.

Modern Usage

Today, yawls are less commonly built than other types of sailing vessels, such as sloops and ketches, but they remain beloved by a dedicated group of sailing enthusiasts for their beauty, history, and unique sailing characteristics. Yawls are often seen in classic yacht regattas and are prized as cruising boats for their ease of handling, especially in challenging conditions.

See Also

• Sailing
• Sailboat
• Rigging
• Mast (sailing)
• Sloop
• Schooner