A sloop has only one mast, but it is rigged both fore and aft. The mast is also located further forward than other types of vessels, including a cutter.
The traditional rig of a sloop is a small fore triangle and an aft gaff rig located above the main sail. Generally, sloop only have one fore sail, but this isn't always the case. Some sloops are rigged with multiple fore sails like cutters. The definitive test for distinguishing a sloop from a cutter is the position of the mast.
In order to maximize the available sail surface, a sloop of classic design will often use a bowsprit, a fixed spar that projects forward of the bow.
When sailing downwind, though, it is common to see spinnakers being deployed to replace or supplement the foresail.
Incidentally, the name sloop comes from the Dutch word, sloep. The sloop design and sailplan makes for an excellent racing vessel.
The traditional rig of a sloop is a small fore triangle and an aft gaff rig located above the main sail. Generally, sloop only have one fore sail, but this isn't always the case. Some sloops are rigged with multiple fore sails like cutters. The definitive test for distinguishing a sloop from a cutter is the position of the mast.
In order to maximize the available sail surface, a sloop of classic design will often use a bowsprit, a fixed spar that projects forward of the bow.
When sailing downwind, though, it is common to see spinnakers being deployed to replace or supplement the foresail.
Incidentally, the name sloop comes from the Dutch word, sloep. The sloop design and sailplan makes for an excellent racing vessel.
