definition of a ketch sailboat

What Is a Ketch Sailboat?

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

August 30, 2022

‍ Ketch sailboats are a common sight in some areas, and they have numerous handling benefits. But what is a ketch, and how does it differ?

A ketch is a two-mast sailboat similar to a yawl. The mainmast is shorter than a sloop, and the mizzenmast aft is shorter than the mainmast. A ketch usually has a triangular mizzen sail and a triangular or square headsail.

In this article, we’ll cover the general characteristics of a ketch and how to distinguish it from other two-masted sailboats. Additionally, we’ll go over the benefits of the ketch rig and how it compares to the similar yawl rig. We’ll also overview the most common types of ketch sailboats on the water today.

We sourced the information used in this article from sailboat identification guides and rig design diagrams.

Table of contents

‍ General Description of a Ketch Sailboat

A ketch is a two-masted sailboat with a tall mizzenmast mast aft of the mainmast. A key characteristic of Ketch sailboats is that their mizzenmast is shorter than the mainmast.

The mainmast itself is typical and resembles a sloop mast. A ketch has a mainsail and one or more headsails on the mainmast, along with a single mizzen on the mizzenmast.

A ketch can easily be mistaken for a yawl, as these vessels have similar sail arrangements. Ketch sailboats can have square or triangular rigs, depending on the age and specific design of the boat.

A gaff headsail is usually accompanied by a triangular mizzen on a ketch, similar to a schooner.

Ketch Sailboat History

The ketch is a relatively old part of the sailing world. Based on the classic yawl design, the ketch was used extensively for workboats on the New England coast at the height of the sailing era.

Ketch sailboats were robust and easy to handle. They also tracked a naturally straight course due to their mizzen, which was used as a primitive form of self-steering. This was helpful for small fishing boats, as the crew didn’t need to attend to the rudder quite so often.

Ketch sailboats continued working the New England coast well into the era of steam. In the mid to late-1800s, ketch-rigged workboats were still a common sight in coastal areas.

Today, they persist as recreational and cruising sailboats, as their tough and stable rigs are still a practical option for boatbuilders.

Types of Ketch Sailboats

There are many types of ketch sailboats on the water. The ketch is not the most common kind of sailboat, but there are enough of them around to notice once in a while. Ketch sailboats were once utility boats, but they’ve been strictly used for recreational and cruising boats for the last 100 years or so.

The most common kind of ketch is the simple cruising ketch. These sailboats are typically made of fiberglass and resemble other cruising sailboats in almost every way.

Their interior accommodations are the same as a comparably-sized sloop, though cockpit space is limited due to the presence of a mizzenmast and rigging.

The ketch rig is a popular choice for motorsailers, especially heavy-displacement versions. The ketch is a stable design with quite a bit of power due to its additional mast, which allows the mainsail and boom footprint to be slightly smaller. The ketch is also highly controllable, which is great for closed-cockpit sailboats.

The ketch rig is also popular on classic sailboats. Specifically, the gaff-rigged ketch is a common sight in some classic boat circles—particularly on the East Coast of the United States. Wooden ketch-rigged boats were outfitted with both traditional square and modern triangular rigs.

There are a few smaller open-cockpit ketch sailboats around, and these are popular for cruising deeper water—but not far from shore. Open cruising ketch sailboats are usually less than 20 feet long and can be found most often around Chesapeake Bay.

Cutter Ketch Rig

A cutter ketch is simply a ketch rig with additional headsails. Because the mast is in the same position as a sloop, the ketch is easy to rig with additional forward sails. A typical cruising ketch can use a wide variety of headsails, including a spinnaker.

Ketch Vs Yawl

The ketch rig is very similar to the yawl, which also has a tall mainmast and an additional mizzenmast and mizzen aft. The yawl is a much older boat that originated in England or Scotland around the 17th century.

The yawl rig usually has a shorter mizzenmast that’s positioned further aft, as the mizzen boom usually extends beyond the stern of the boat. A ketch mizzen is positioned forward, usually a bit larger and more comparable to the size of the mainsail.

Yawl and ketch rigs are both quite stable. A ketch usually has a bit more power due to its larger mizzen, though the yawl is generally considered to be easier for a single person or a short-handed crew to handle.

Ketch Rig Benefits

There are numerous benefits to the ketch rig, especially when compared to tall Marconi/Bermuda rigs. The primary benefit is that, despite the additional mast and rigging, a ketch is exceptionally easy to handle.

A ketch spreads out its sail area between the headsail, mainsail, and mizzen. The additional mast and sail allow the mainmast to be shortened, which naturally makes the boat easier to control single-handed.

Ketch rigs offer additional precision, as you can adjust three sails independently to optimize performance for any given wind condition. The mizzen is in close proximity to the cockpit, and due to its small size, it’s easy to control.

Ketch rigs can also self-steer to some extent. The mizzen works the same way that a stabilizing sail on a fishing drift boat does and keeps the boat tracking on a straight course with or without constant rudder input from the crew.

The ketch rig also offers a level of redundancy that traditional single-masted sailboats don’t have. This is particularly attractive to long-range cruisers. A ketch has a shorter mainmast, which allows boatbuilders to use stronger materials and maintain the same weight.

A ketch can continue sailing if you lose a mainstay or suffer dismasting, as there’s an additional mast aft that probably won’t also go down. This extra level of safety is useful when conditions are rough, and it also gives you peace of mind when out on the open ocean.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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15 Surprising Benefits of a Ketch Rig (and 7 Cons)

If you're trying to figure out whether the ketch rig is for you, there are a couple of important factors to consider. In this article, I'll sum up the most important benefits.

What are the benefits of a ketch rig? Since the sail area is divided over multiple sails, the ketch is more easily managed and is great for single-handed sailing. It offers more versatility in sail plan, and is known to handle very well in heavy winds. The ketch rig is an especially effective rig for larger boats (40ft and up).

Just a quick recap: the ketch is a two-masted sailboat that has a mainmast (front) and shorter mizzenmast (aft or back). Both masts carry a mainsail. The sail on the mizzenmast is also called the jigger.

Your mizzensail provides all kinds of benefits. There are some really creative ways to put your mizzenmast to use. Read on to learn what those are.

On this page:

The ideal rig for long-distance offshore cruising, ketches generally perform better in downwind conditions, smaller sails are easier to manage, easier reefing, using multiple sails allows for more control, more versatile sail plan options, you gain a spare sail, more balanced sailing, superior sail plan in heavy winds, comfort over speed, less stress on the rigging, variety of mizzenmast uses, the air rudder, free riding sail at anchor, incredibly fast in right conditions, disadvantages of the ketch rig, in conclusion.

All in all, the ketch rig is widely known as one of the best rigs for long-distance cruising . There are multiple reasons to back up that claim, and we'll go over all of them one by one below. But the most important reason is that the ketch is incredibly comfortable, both in handling, maneuvering, operating, and the ride itself. This increased comfort is largely thanks to the extra sail aft, the mizzensail, which provides a better power balance.

So who's it for?

The ketch is especially great for long-distance cruisers that face rough waters and heavier winds and are short-handed. For example, couples that want to sail around the world together, or liveaboards that go on long holidays or expeditions. It's also a great family cruiser, since you can sail a larger boat without needing additional crew members or having to operate humongous sails.

While with the Marconi rig the main and jib get in each other's way on downwind runs, the ketch rig has far fewer problems. The mizzensail and mainsail can work together seamlessly and are far more efficient with most points of sail, except of course when sailing very close to the wind. But even then, the Bermuda rig and ketch can go neck-to-neck and the gap in performance isn't necessarily enormous. Unless you're a racer, the ketch is a really good alternative to the Bermuda rig, and most people should at least consider it.

The ketch is a very good single-handed rig, especially for larger boats (40ft and up). Using smaller but more sails allows you to have more sail area, while it's still manageable for one person. Also, smaller sails are easier to handle in heavier winds . Splitting up your sail area is just a great way to keep things in check, even with a small crew of just one or two people.

Because you have more (and mostly smaller) sails, reefing becomes easier. There's less stress on the sails, and you can reef down gradually, in phases, moving through your sails one by one. This ensures comfortable reefing and results in less speed reduction.

Another great tip I've read somewhere is that you can even quickly drop your main when the winds come in. Instantly, you're storm proof, while maintaining speed and course.

The ketch rig has three primary sails instead of two. This provides all kinds of benefits, and there are a couple of really surprising ones, which I'll come to later on. But the most important one is that you gain more control. The mizzensail provides more control over your stern.

Also, with the additional sail, you get a lot more trimming options for all conditions, allowing you more precise control for each point of sail and with any wind.

The extra sail also provides more versatile sail plan options. You have a broader operating range. There are more sails to put up with light airs, but also more sails to take down when things get rough. You can reef in all kinds of different combinations, and even take down the main if you have to. Which brings me to my next point.

This provides A LOT of benefits. For example, if you need to perform maintenance on your main, you can simply take it down, and continue sailing without losing control or a lot of speed. The ketch can sail on all points of wind with the main down (or the mizzen or jib). You have a spare sail, which will come in handy.

The mizzensail has a major upside you just won't get with the Bermuda sloop rig. The mizzensail balances the jib.

Sailing "jib and jigger" means just using your mizzen and jib, and leaving the mainsail down.

I've heard that this sail plan is very well-balanced, and allows you to self steer in a way. You could theoretically even use it as an temporary alternative to your autopilot, should it break down.

Thanks to its more balanced sail plan, the ketch rig is a much more comfortable ride in heavier winds, and many sailors praise the ketch for precisely that. Taking down the mainsail, sailing just the jigger and jib, provides a sort of instant storm sail plan that at the same time offers a lot more control than the single stormsail you'd usually put up on a Bermuda rig instead of the mainsail.

I think it's clear by now that the ketch is maybe the ultimate cruising rig. If you value your comfort, the mizzen offers some incredible benefits. The well-balanced output of this rig and the enormous variety in sail trim options allow for a smooth ride in almost all conditions.

However, you do pay a (minor) price for all this luxury: speed. The ketch is inevitably slower than the leaner Bermuda rig. However, on a downwind run, the ketch will still satisfy: there's plenty of sail area to gain some nice momentum.

Reducing sail size means you don't have to put as much stress on the rigging and you could use shorter masts, making them stronger. The difference in mast length isn't huge, but the forces on the mast grow exponentially with length. So a bit shorter mast makes a big difference.

In turn, the stress on the rigging is also reduced, which can lead to less wear, resulting in lower maintenance costs.

Stress on the rigging seems to be the major disadvantage of the Marconi rig.

Another rig that's a bit 'softer' is the gaff rig . The gaff rig is better suited for inland, calm waters instead of long term cruising, but can be another good alternative to the uptight Bermuda. I have written about the advantages of the gaff rig in detail in this article (opens in new tab).

The mizzenmast and sail can act as several things and will be very useful to creative sailors. Some cool examples I've found:

You can use the mizzenmast and sail:

• Using it as a crane to load and unload cargo
• Using it as an air rudder
• Using it as your riding sail at anchor

The mizzen can be a great help in mooring and the likes. Many ketch sailors use the mizzenmast as a type of massive wind rudder, which is a great help when you want extra control under sail. If you learn to use the mizzensail, you gain an additional rudder, which increases control over your stern and can help you maneuver in tight spots.

You can also use the mizzensail as an alternative riding sail at anchor, although it isn't recommended since your sail will wear down due to increased UV exposure.

As I pointed out briefly before, the ketch rig is a bit slower than most Bermuda rigs. However, in the right conditions, it can be incredibly fast, especially with larger boats that run a well-balanced sail plan. If you are able to utilize the additional sail area and find a course with a good point of sail, the ketch rig can really ramp up.

As with anything, there is a price to be paid for all these advantages, and the ketch rig does have some downsides. I thought it would be only fair to touch on them briefly below. However, if you are able to look past these, in my opinion, minor disadvantages, the ketch rig remains a great rig for serious sailors.

They tend to be slower than sloops

The Bermuda rig isn't the most popular rig by chance. It is by far the fastest rig out there.

They can't sail as close to the wind as sloops

Although modern ketches can sail almost as high as sloops, there's a point where sloops are able to go, and ketches can go no further. However, I think that many recreational sailors won't push their rig to its limits, which means the ketch is still a good option to consider.

The mizzenmast takes up space

Extra masts and extra sails do take up additional space, and space is precious on your boat.

Most ketches are old boats

Since it is a less popular rig type, there are fewer ketches made than Bermuda sloops. The apparant result being that ketches tend to be a bit older, and are a bit harder to find.

They will be more expensive

Since there are less available, they will be more expensive - the additional mast and sails will obviously also increase your purchase. And it's my guess that most ketches are owned by people who know pretty well what their boat is worth, so it will be harder to find a good bargain.

Additional rigging

Ketches have a lot of additional rigging you just won't find on your regular Bermuda. An extra mast and main means additional sheets, halyards, stays, and so on.

More or less maintenance cost

I have never owned a ketch and I never had to maintain one, so I just don't know whether a ketch is more or less expensive in maintenance. The additional rigging and sails may drive up the maintenance cost; on the other end, the sails are smaller and maybe won't all need replacing at the same rate, which may reduce maintenance cost. Especially the fact that ketch sailors use their mainsail less will probably be really cost-effective. Also, the reduced stress on the mast and (standing) rigging, may reduce maintenance cost.

If you have more experience or information about the cost of ownership and maintenance cost of ketches, please leave a comment below. I'm always eager to learn.

The ketch is a great rig that provides comfort, versatility, and control while offering acceptable speeds and a large operating range. It's a viable alternative to the Bermuda rig, and is especially interesting for people that want to explore the world's oceans with a small crew. It's easy to handle but will be more expensive initially, although I suspect the maintenance cost of the ketch rig will even itself out.

There you have it, all the advantages and disadvantages of the ketch rig in one neat overview. I hope this was helpful and has provided some insight to help you in deciding whether or not the ketch rig is for you.

Seamus Scanlan

I once owned a “Morgan Giles” barrell built wooden sloop which I sailed in the Gair Loch and the Firth of Clyde: what a lovely wee boat that was ! However, that was some years ago and “Things Conspired” and I lost her … I Perhaps Life has changed for the better and now I dream of owning a “Miller Fifer”30 or 35 foot. She should provide live aboard accommodation, carry me through the canals of Europe and see me challenge the Med. Your article on the advantages of the ketch has has inspired and encouraged me greatly and I am sincerely grateful; thank you so much. Seamus.

Please enjoy a HEALTHY 2021.’

It’s a bit confusing and frustrating that you compare a ketch to a Bermuda. Ketch is a sail PLAN, Bermuda is a sail SHAPE. As is gaff, by the way. That rather beautiful photo you used is a gaff sail ketch rig. It gets confusing to newer sailors and causes a bit of skepticism in your accuracy. Otherwise, a well written article. As an (occasional) author, I’ve found that reading what you’ve written a week or so later in a very different font can dramatically help proofreading. A good friend also can’t hurt.

Fair winds and smooth seas!

I made the newbie mistake of buying a 12m used ketch without a survey as a first boat. It sure seems like it would be neat to have, were I experienced. But lots more reading to do. It seems mine is not just a ketch but I am told it is a cutter ketch because there is a space for a yankee. But I assume that is still expected to be slower than your sloop as referenced above?

in 1976 I purchased a brand new, built-for-me, 35’ Challenger ketch. On April 1, 1977, I moved onto my Challenger, which became her name, with my wife, 8 and 12year old sons who had first sailed the year before in a 1969, used, Cal 29. We lived on the Challenger every year from 1977 until I sold her in 1994. My boys, from day one could sail her in any weather, high or low winds or waves. We all loved her sailing on Lake Ontario, NY and Ontario Canada and the St. Lawrence River and 1000 Island and around Kingston Ontario area for 22 days in 1978 only docking for two nights and at anchor the rest of the time. Challenger, with the sails properly set could sail herself either across or down the lake West to east. My wife would sleep and I would sit up in the bow in the pulpit while she sailed. We oftentimes would fly a big light drifter in light winds and a staysail from the main mast head to the End of the mizzen boom. With 5 sails up we would fly. It was sad to let her go but Florida has lots of shallow water.

I appreciate the article as i am looking and trying to understand all the differences and advantages and disadvantages. have owned sloops and never even though of the different rigs as I felt they may be to complicated. I am to find something for some enjoyable cruising and will most likely always be shorthanded with crewing issues. I also appreciated Rehn comments just to make you think. Thank you! for sharing your thoughts

Gene Rossano

I am Gene. almost 30 years ago I sold my Challenger 35 Ketch that I purchased new in 1976 and had her trucked to Buffalo, NY from California to sail on all of Lake Ontario and into the St Lawrence River and the 1000 islands and some channels and locks and small lakes in Ontario, Canada. My wife and I and 8 and 12-year-old sons moved on her on April 1st 1977 and moved off the Challenger November 1st every year until I sold her in 1994 to move to Florida, the land of miles and miles of very shallow water. We sailed her every week leaving on Thursday or Friday and returning either Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday to head back to our home port of Wilson, NY, or later, St Catherines Marina, located in St Catherines, Ontario Canada. We sailed her in every kind of wind and wave condition that we all felt Challenger could and would take us home safely and well. My wife and my boys helmed her and tended the sails day and night in all conditions with every different sail combination that we possessed.All sails were hanked.

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What is a Ketch Sailboat?

Ketch boats are frequently seen in certain regions and offer various advantages in terms of handling. However, what is a ketch and how does it stand out?

A ketch is a sailboat with two masts. The mainmast is shorter than the mast on a sloop, and the mizzenmast aft is shorter than the mainmast.

Ketches are a type of sailing vessel that have been around for centuries. They are known for their unique design, which features two masts – the main mast located towards the front of the vessel and a smaller mizzen mast located towards the back.

Understanding the Definition of a Ketch

Ketch rig is a type of sailboat that has two masts, with the main mast located forward and the smaller mizzen mast positioned aft. The ketch rig offers a variety of sail combinations to be used depending on wind conditions, making it one of the most versatile rigs available. The ketch rig allows for easy handling in all weather conditions, and its balance makes it ideal for long-distance cruising and offshore sailing.

The versatility of the ketch rig lies in its ability to use different sail combinations. For example, when sailing upwind or close-hauled, the mainsail and jib are typically used. When reaching or running downwind, the mizzen sail can be added to increase speed and stability. This flexibility allows sailors to adjust their sails according to changing weather conditions.

The ketch rig also offers excellent balance due to its two-mast configuration. The smaller mizzen mast positioned aft helps balance out the larger main mast located forward, providing increased stability in rough seas. This balance makes it easier for sailors to handle their boats in challenging conditions.

Ketches and Yawls: Understanding the Difference

Mizzen mast position: the main difference.

The primary difference between a ketch and a yawl is the position of the mizzen mast. In a ketch, the mizzen mast is located forward of the rudder post, while in a yawl, it is located aft of the rudder post. This difference in placement has several implications for how each type of sailboat rig handles on the water.

Larger and More Sail Area

Ketches are typically larger than yawls and have more sail area. This extra sail area allows them to generate more power and speed when sailing downwind or reaching. Ketches also tend to be heavier than yawls, which makes them more stable in rough seas. However, this added weight can make them slower to accelerate and maneuver in tight spaces.

Technical Analysis: Comparing Ketch vs Yawl Rigs

When comparing ketch vs yawl rigs from a technical standpoint, there are several factors to consider beyond just their size and sail area. One important consideration is the center of effort, which is the point where all the forces generated by the sails converge. In a ketch rig, the center of effort is typically farther forward than in a yawl rig, which can make it more difficult to balance when sailing upwind.

Another factor to consider is how each type of rig handles in different wind conditions. Ketches tend to perform better in light winds because they have more sail area to catch any available breeze. However, as the wind picks up, their heavier weight and larger size can make them more difficult to handle. Yawls, on the other hand, are better suited for heavy weather because their smaller size and aft-mast position give them better balance and control.

Variations of Ketch Sailboats

Although not frequently seen, the ketch is a type of sailboat that catches one’s attention due to its unique features. They are known for their classic design, spacious interiors, and comfortable cruising capabilities. These boats have been used for centuries as working watercraft, particularly in fishing and cargo transport, due to their ability to carry large loads and navigate in shallow waters. Here are some variations of ketch sailboats that you should know about.

Traditional Ketch Rig

The traditional ketch rig is characterized by having two masts, with the smaller mizzen mast located aft of the main mast. This rig has a triangular mainsail and a quadrilateral mizzen sail. The mainsail is usually larger than the mizzen sail, which provides balance and stability to the boat. This type of rig is commonly found on older sailing vessels.

Schooner-Rigged Ketch

The schooner-rigged ketch features two or more headsails instead of just one like other types of ketches. This rig allows for greater flexibility in adjusting sails according to wind conditions. It also gives the boat more speed when sailing downwind.

Gaff-Rigged Ketch

The gaff-rigged ketch features a gaff rig on both the main and mizzen masts. The sails are typically made of canvas, which gives them a classic look. This type of rig is often found on traditional wooden boats.

The Origin of the Word Ketch

Etymology is a fascinating field that allows us to trace the origins and evolution of words. The word “ketch” is no exception, with its roots dating back to Middle English. In this section, we will delve deeper into the history of the word “ketch” and explore how it came to be associated with a particular type of vessel.

The Middle English Connection

To understand the origin of the word “ketch,” we need to look at its linguistic roots. The word is believed to have originated from the Middle English word “cacchen,” which means “to catch.” This connection makes sense when you consider that ketches were originally designed for fishing purposes.

Samuel Pepys’ Diary

The first recorded use of the word “ketch” was in 1667 in Samuel Pepys’ diary . Pepys described a small two-masted vessel as a “ketch,” providing us with an early example of how the term was used in context. It’s interesting to note that even in Pepys’ time, ketches were already being used for both commercial and recreational purposes.

Ketches: A Historical Overview

17th century origins.

In the 17th century, ketches were developed as a response to the need for more efficient and versatile sailing vessels. The design of ketches allowed them to carry more cargo and sail faster than other types of ships at the time. With their two masts, ketches were able to accommodate a larger sail area while still being easy to handle with a smaller crew.

The early ketch designs were primarily used for fishing and trading, as they could easily navigate shallow waters and enter ports that larger ships could not. Their ability to sail close to the wind made them ideal for coastal trading routes.

Golden Age of Piracy

During the Golden Age of Piracy in the 18th century, ketches became popular among pirates due to their versatility and speed. Pirates would use ketches for raiding other ships, as well as transporting stolen goods back to their hideouts.

One notable example is the infamous pirate Blackbeard’s ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge. This ship was originally built as a French slave ship but was later captured by Blackbeard and converted into a powerful ketch with 40 guns.

Decline in Popularity

As steam-powered ships began to rise in popularity in the 19th century, traditional sailing vessels like ketches began to decline in use. However, they continued to be used for coastal trading and fishing due to their ability to navigate shallow waters and small harbors.

Resurgence in Popularity

In the 20th century, there was a resurgence in popularity among recreational sailors due to their ease of handling and versatility. Ketch designs were modified with modern materials such as fiberglass hulls and aluminum masts which made them easier and cheaper to build. Today, a few modern sailboat designs are based on traditional ketch designs.

Benefits of Ketches

The ketch rig offers several advantages over larger sloops .

• More Balanced Sail Plan One of the main benefits of a ketch is its more balanced sail plan. With two masts, a ketch can distribute its sails more evenly than a sloop, making it easier to handle in rough weather conditions. The smaller mainsail on a ketch also means less heeling (tilting) in strong winds, which can make for a more comfortable ride. The shorter mast height allows ketches to navigate under lower bridges and in shallower waters.costs over time.
• Versatility Ketches offer greater versatility than sloops due to their ability to carry multiple sails with different configurations. This allows sailors to adjust their sail plan based on wind direction and strength, giving them greater control over their boat’s performance. Ketches are also better suited for long-distance cruising as they can carry more gear without sacrificing stability.
• Ease of Handling Ketches have more complex rigging and sail plans than sloops, making them a bit harder to handle. However, despite having an extra mast and rigging, ketches are still pretty easy to manage.
• Reducing Weather Helm with the Mizzen Sail When sailing upwind, weather helm can be an issue that requires constant attention from the helmsman. Weather helm occurs when there is too much pressure on the sails forward of the mast, causing the boat to turn into the wind. The mizzen sail can be used to balance out this pressure by creating an opposing force aft of the mast. This reduces weather helm and makes it easier for the helmsman to steer with less effort.
• Aft Cabins For those who enjoy overnight stays on board, ketches offer more privacy and comfort thanks to their aft cabins. These cabins are located at the back of the boat and provide a quieter space away from the main living areas. They also tend to be larger than forward cabins on other types of sailboats.

What is the purpose of a ketch?

A ketch sailboat is designed to provide better balance and control than other types of sailboats. It has two masts, with the larger main mast located towards the front and a smaller mizzen mast towards the back. This configuration allows for greater sail area and better maneuverability, making it easier to handle in challenging conditions.

Can one person sail a ketch?

It is possible for one person to sail a ketch, but it depends on the size and complexity of the boat. Smaller ketch sailboats can be handled by a single sailor with some experience, but larger vessels will require a crew or advanced sailing skills.

What is the largest sailing ketch in the world?

The largest sailing ketch in the world is currently the 107-meter “Black Pearl,” which was launched in 2018. The Black Pearl is a hybrid sailing yacht that features a combination of sail and diesel-electric propulsion, making it one of the most technologically advanced and luxurious ketches in the world.

What is a 3-masted sailboat called?

A 3-masted sailboat is typically called a schooner if it has two or more fore-and-aft rigged masts, or a barquentine if it has a square-rigged sail on the foremast and fore-and-aft sails on the other masts.

Can you sail a ketch without the Mizzen?

Yes, it is possible to sail a ketch without the mizzen sail, but it may affect the balance and maneuverability of the boat. In general, it is recommended to use all sails on a ketch to achieve the best performance and control. However, in certain conditions, such as high winds, it may be necessary to reduce sail area by taking down the mizzen or other sails.

What are some popular ketch sailboat models?

Some popular ketch sailboat models include the Amel Maramu, the Hallberg-Rassy 43, and the Tayana 37.

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What’s in a Rig? The Ketch

By: Pat Reynolds Sailboat Rigs , Sailboats

What’s in a Rig Series #4

Ketch rigs hold a special place in many a cruising sailor’s heart. There’s something dignified and majestic about them. They are two masted rigs with a main mast and a (smaller) mizzenmast – they carry a jib just like a sloop. Generally, ketches will be in the 40-plus foot range. The reasoning for this is that before sailing hardware and gizmotology (yes, we invented a word) was as advanced as it is now, designers were looking for ways to carry a good amount of sail, but make it manageable at the same time. This configuration served that purpose and while doing so also gave sailors quite a few options for various weather conditions and situations.

Ketch rig sailors speak of the balance that can be achieved with adjusting the various sails in a multitude of ways. There’s a more nuanced control that is achievable through the assortment of trimming permutations. Some take pride in the ability to lock the helm and steer the boat using just the relationship of the multiple sails.

Like cutter rigs, ketch advocates also sing praises for its characteristics in heavier winds. Many will break down the mainsail and go with the mizzen and foresail combo, which can make for a balanced and comfortable ride in more blustery conditions. Factor in reefing and there are a lot of options to depower and find the perfect amount of canvas to fly.

Many fans of the ketch will speak of the mizzenmast as a trusty old friend. It can help stabilize the boat under power, even act like a poor man’s bow thruster at times (a very poor man by the way). And for cruisers, it can also be utilized for more industrious purposes like using it as a crane to pick up a dinghy or some other heavy something or other. You’ll also see many wind generators, antennas and other stuff mounted on mizzenmasts because of their natural excellent positioning for such things.

So the ketch is a definitely a great choice for short-handed cruisers. It has many practical benefits and let’s face it – a pretty ketch, fully rigged and sailing peacefully on a beam-reach, heading somewhere better than where it was…that’s a defining image of what sailboat cruising is. Photo Pat Reynolds.

What's in a Rig Series:

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Difference Between Ketch and Yawl Explained

When I was a lad, I thought they were all schooners, but they were not. The difference between ketch and yawl (and schooner) is determined by the position of the mizzenmast relative to the rudder pole.

Also, the height of the mizzenmast relative to the mainmast plays an essential role in the definition of ketch, yawl, and schooner.

Ketch vs Yawl vs Schooner

Ketch sailboat, yawl sailboat, ketch vs yawl – the bottom line.

Before we go down to the ketch vs yawl differences, we need to define a schooner, one of the classic sail configurations echoing from the Age of Sail , which is the 1600s.

Well, a schooner is a sailing vessel with multiple masts (more than one) where all masts bear either Bermuda sails, gaff sails, or a combination of those.

In application to the modern pleasure boats , we speak mainly about two-masted schooners . More importantly, the second mast, which we often call “mizzenmast,” must be the same height or taller as the “mainmast.”

Sometimes (and officially it is so), we call the second mast of a schooner a main mast, as it is taller, but the first one is the foremast then. I see no serious fault in either use of these terms.

The mizzen sail of a schooner can be significantly larger than her main sail or of the same size.

Schooners are usually larger boats, tall ships, and super-yachts. We can hardly spot a 25-foot schooner, but they are commonly 50-60 feet and up. Honestly, we can hardly spot a schooner as a pleasure boat at all unless she is a super-yacht or a historical vessel.

Schooners may feature a staysail or a few between the masts, along with or instead of the main sail. Ketches do so as well, while yawls do not.

Ketch vs Yawl

Just to cut it short, one image is worth a thousand words. So let’s take a look at the ketch vs yawl comparison , and we’ll cover the details below.

Once the mizzenmast of the two-masted schooner-alike is shorter than the mainmast, she is a ketch . Yet another cardinal condition to define the ketch vs yawl difference is that for a sailboat to be a ketch, the mizzenmast should be located before the rudder pole (otherwise, she is a yawl).

A ketch with two or more jibs is called a cutter ketch (in the picture above). Bigger ketches may carry triangle staysails between the masts, like for going downwind, which is not the case for a yawl due to the distance between the masts, and the mizzenmast being too small.

Modern ketches can bear gaff sails or a combination of a gaff sail and a Bermuda sail, but the latter we meet pretty seldom. Ketches way more often implement Bermuda sails on both masts.

Because the sail area of a ketch is split into two parts, the masts of a ketch are shorter than the single mast of a sloop, giving more clearance to pass under the bridges, and decreasing the load given on each mast, sails themselves, standing rig, and running rig too.

Ketches are widely recognized as way stable boats when in rough water and strong winds compared to sloops; this makes them idyllic for off-shore cruising. For day-sailing, you can use just one sail and jibs. That makes ketches very versatile sailboats, as you choose the best sail configuration for today’s voyage out of several options.

The complexity of control is a subjective con as well, real ketch-owners never report. The mizzen is smaller anyway than the genny and the main.

Nobody forces you to use all sails at once, but you have a wider range of options . Shorter masts and smaller sails are easier to handle once you sail single-handed. Logically, for a cruising couple, a ketch is simply the best sailboat.

There are no brand-new ketches in the market to buy one straight away from the manufacturer. For the mass market, boatyards prefer making sloops, but for having a brand-new ketch, you need a custom build. The same is about yawls, by the way.

And, we have found yet another beautiful pro for ketches somewhere in sailing forums: a ketch appears like a real ship rather than a sloop-ish big dinghy (ha-ha).

Boaters who tried a ketch do never go back to sloops. If you meet one, please let us know.

The mizzenmast of a yawl is located far abaft the rudder pole. The mizzenmast of a yawl is usually very small, even tiny, standing far abaft. Actually, it is significantly smaller than one on a ketch – the main and the principal difference between a ketch and yawl.

Yawl owners report they never want anything but yawl anymore, just like ketch owners do about their ketches. Many sloop owners, however, think about a ketch or a yawl as their next boat. True.

Yawls are as stable as ketches on the go, but you’ll meet different physics and behavior once you sail it because the wind force applies behind the rudder. Somewhat a rare-wheel-drive if you wish. Nobody calls sailboats “something wheel drive,” but we want to hint at an idea about how to sail a yawl.

Just because the yawl’s mizzen sail is behind the rudder, it can be used as a wind rudder. Many yawl owners find it way useful, as it adds a ton to stability, including but not limited to the downwind.

Some yawl owners say they also use the second sail as a stabilizer when anchoring, which you can hardly do safely with any bigger sail. I’m unsure if this even counts anything like a serious pro, but some people report they love it.

The mizzenmast standing at the very aft may sometimes complicate the installation of the wind-wane or a solar panel at the aft. Maybe a reason why yawls are, in general, smaller boats than ketches, and the former fit less for off-shore cruising (please don’t shoot at me).

Many boaters we have interviewed about ketch vs yawl say, “I love ketch/yawl because she is just more beautiful than my counterpart.” If you ask me, my dream boat is a ketch sailboat with a heavy steel hull, most probably a cutter of about 40-45 feet LOA.

The stability of yawls and ketches is pretty the same, if I may. They are not really “ketch vs yawl”; there’s not much space for being “versus,” but we think both are generally better than a sloop.

Both ketch and yawl perform amazingly in strong winds, having an option to run with the mizzen and the jib on, downing the main (the combo is called Jib and Jigger ).

Both ketch and yawl are cooler downwind compared to a sloop, but the letter wins the upwind performance. That is why we do not see ketches nor yawls racing.

There are so many reports of how the two-masted yachts (ketches and yawls) perform in rough weather. They are just made for this, as the wind force is spread, giving less load upon each mast and the rig, and then smaller sails serve longer and are easier to handle.

So, finding out the difference between ketch and yawl, I asked my teacher a long time ago: what was the best rig for the rough waters and heavy winds? He replied: A submarine.

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Hi, I’m Igor, Skipper of S/Y "The Hooker". A decade ago, I conquered my childhood dream: to be a sailing skipper, own a sailing yacht. Yes, it knocked dullness out of my urban life — Read more →

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Yacht Dreaming

Ketch Sailing Techniques: Mastering the Art of Sailing a Ketch Yacht

Understanding Ketch Sailing Basics

Sailing a ketch yacht is a unique experience that requires a high level of skill and expertise. A ketch is a type of sailboat that has two masts, with a smaller mast located at the stern. The smaller mast is known as the mizzenmast, and it is usually smaller than the main mast.

Ketch sailing is a popular activity among avid sailors, as it offers a range of benefits, including improved stability, increased speed, and excellent maneuverability. To master the art of ketch sailing, you need to understand some of the basics of ketch sailing. Here are some essential tips to get you started:

Tips for Sailing a Ketch Yacht

Understand the wind direction and adjust your sails accordingly. Ketch sailing involves adjusting your sails to the wind direction to maximize your speed and maneuverability. This requires a keen understanding of wind direction and the ability to make quick adjustments to your sails.

Keep an eye on the weather conditions. Sailing a ketch yacht requires you to be aware of the weather conditions at all times. If the weather is too rough, it can be dangerous to sail, so it’s essential to keep an eye on any changes in the weather and adjust your sails accordingly.

Practice your maneuvering skills. Maneuvering a ketch yacht can be challenging, so it’s essential to practice your skills regularly. This includes docking, anchoring, and navigating in tight spaces.

The Art of Ketch Sailing

Ketch sailing is both an art and a science. It requires a high level of skill, experience, and expertise. To sail a ketch yacht successfully, you need to understand the principles of sail trim, navigation, and weather forecasting.

Principles of Sail Trim

Sail trim is one of the most critical aspects of ketch sailing. It involves adjusting the sails to maximize your speed and performance. Proper sail trim is essential to maintain optimal boat balance, which helps to improve stability and speed.

Here are some tips to help you master the art of sail trim:

• Adjust your sails based on the wind direction.
• Use telltales to monitor your sail trim.
• Use the traveler to adjust the position of the boom.

Navigation Techniques

Navigation is another crucial aspect of ketch sailing. It involves using charts, compasses, and other instruments to navigate safely through the water. To sail a ketch yacht successfully, you must understand the basics of navigation.

Here are some essential navigation techniques to help you get started:

• Use charts and maps to plan your route.
• Use a compass to navigate and maintain your heading.
• Use your GPS to monitor your progress and location.

Weather Forecasting

Weather forecasting is an essential skill for any sailor, and it’s especially important for ketch sailors. Understanding the weather can help you avoid dangerous conditions and make the most of favorable winds.

Here are some tips for understanding weather forecasting:

• Monitor the weather forecast regularly.
• Look for signs of changing weather conditions.
• Learn how to read cloud formations and barometric pressure.

Advanced Ketch Sailing Techniques

Once you master the basics of ketch sailing, you can begin to explore more advanced techniques. These techniques can help you improve your speed, performance, and maneuverability.

Advanced Sail Trim Techniques

Advanced sail trim techniques involve adjusting your sails to optimize your speed and performance. These techniques require a high level of skill and experience and can be challenging to master.

Some advanced sail trim techniques include:

• Using the boom vang to control sail shape.
• Adjusting the draft of your sails.
• Using a spinnaker or gennaker to improve your downwind performance.

Advanced Navigation Techniques

Advanced navigation techniques can help you navigate more challenging conditions and explore new areas. These techniques require a deep understanding of navigation principles and a high level of skill.

Some advanced navigation techniques include:

• Using electronic navigation systems.
• Using radar to navigate in fog or low visibility.
• Navigating in challenging conditions, such as heavy seas or strong currents.

Advanced Maneuvering Techniques

Advanced maneuvering techniques can help you navigate in tight spaces and improve your overall sailing skills. These techniques require a high level of skill and experience and can be challenging to master.

Some advanced maneuvering techniques include:

• Using a bow thruster to improve your maneuverability.
• Docking in challenging conditions, such as high winds or strong currents.
• Anchoring in challenging conditions, such as deep water or rocky bottoms.

Sailing a ketch yacht can be a rewarding and challenging experience. It requires a high level of skill, experience, and expertise. To master the art of ketch sailing, you need to understand the basics of sail trim, navigation, and weather forecasting. As you gain more experience, you can begin to explore more advanced techniques, such as advanced sail trim, navigation, and maneuvering techniques.

Sailing a ketch yacht is an art that takes time and practice to perfect. But with dedication and hard work, you can become a skilled and accomplished ketch sailor. So, set sail, explore new waters, and enjoy the thrill of ketch sailing!

Downwind Sailing Techniques: Mastering the Art of Sailing with the Wind

RYA Yacht Sailing Techniques: Mastering the Art of Sailing

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Does A Ketch Sailboat Make A Good Cruising Boat?

A ketch sailboat most certainly does make a good cruising boat! With the total sail area split between 3 sails (or 4 in the staysail ketch version shown below), sail handling is easier for a shorthanded crew than it would be on a sloop of similar size.

But could it be a Yawl?

It's easy to confuse a ketch sailboat with a yawl so perhaps we should clear that up before we go any further. Both are two-masted rigs with a mainmast foremost and a smaller mizzen mast aft.

It's generally accepted that the difference between the two types comes down to the location of the mast in relation to the rudder post. In a yawl the mizzen is aft of the rudder post and in the ketch, it's forward.

But the real difference is one of purpose. The mizzen on a yawl is intended to help trim the boat, in capable hands giving them the ability to follow a compass course despite minor wind shifts.

This was a very handy feature in the days when commercial fishing was done under sail, but these days efficient autopilots and navigation aids have made this less important and the yawl has generally fallen out of favour.

The Mizzen Sail on a Yawl or Ketch Sailboat

The mizzen sail of a ketch is larger than that of a yawl and is there to add drive. And so it does - off the wind.

On the wind though, the mizzen is likely to add nothing but drag, being back-winded most of the time by the mainsail.

In these conditions the mizzen sail may as well be dropped, at which point the ketch becomes in effect an under-canvassed sloop.

The Mizzen Staysail

Off the wind a ketch is at its most efficient, particularly so if cutter rigged and with a mizzen staysail set. 

That's the sail set between the head of the mizzen mast and the foot of the main mast, as on the Westerly 33 shown here.

But all the additional hardware - mizzen mast, sails, winches, standing and running rigging - comes with a considerable cost burden.

But there are benefits to be had from a split rig of a ketch:~

• First, they offer greater flexibility for sail reduction, allowing a jib and mizzen configuration in strong winds; 
• secondly, at anchor where with the mizzen set as a steadying sail, the boat will lay comfortably head-to-wind.

The Triatic Backstay

Although you'll see many ketch sailboats with a triatic backstay tensioned between the two mastheads, each mast should be stayed individually.

Whilst this stay is ideally placed to act as an insulated SSB radio aerial, in the event of the loss of one mast it's almost guaranteed to result in the loss of the other.

A staysail ketch like the Amel 54 shown above will carry the following suit of working sails:

• mizzen staysail;

A cruising sloop of a similar size has only two sails to make up the same sail area, which would be considerably more difficult for a short-handed crew to handle.

So, in answer to the original question, although they're not the best choice for windward sailing, the ketch can make an ideal cruising sailboat.

Lastly, the mizzen mast on a ketch sailboat provides an ideal place to mount your radar scanner and wind generator. And as one old sea-dog once told me, a convenient thing to lean against when you're smoking your pipe.

A Few Examples of Ketch Rigged Cruising Boats

What are the Pros & Cons of a Ketch?

• Spread of Sail: Ketches have their sail area distributed over a higher number of sails, which means the size of each sail is generally smaller when compared to a sloop. This is useful when conditions are rough, as it's easier and safer to handle smaller sails.
• Rig Options: The ability to switch between sail configurations makes ketches versatile. You can use only the mizzen and jib in a strong wind, only the main in moderate wind, and all sails in a light wind.
• Downwind Efficiency: Ketches tend to perform well when sailing downwind, as the mizzen sail helps to catch additional wind.
• Balance: The mizzen sail aids in stabilizing the boat which is useful when minimizing roll at anchor and helps balance the boat under sail.
• Emergency Steering: The mizzen sail can be used for emergency steering if the rudder or main steering system becomes damaged.
• Cost: Ketches often cost more due to the additional rigging and hardware needed for the extra mast and extra sails.
• Maintenance: More rigging and more sails also mean more maintenance. Ketches may require more effort and cost to uphold.
• Windward Performance: Ketches are often outperformed by sloops or cutters when sailing upwind.
• Maneuverability: The extra mast can complicate tacking and jibing maneuvers, particularly in heavier winds.
• Space Occupancy: The mizzen mast in a ketch can limit the space available in the cockpit or aft areas.

It's important to note the pros and cons can vary based on the specific design of the ketch. Certain designs may mitigate some of the cons, and other pros may become more apparent in certain types of conditions.

What are the ideal sailing conditions and environments for a ketch sailboat?

Ketch sailboats are particularly suited for long-distance cruising and offshore sailing because of their stability, versatility in sail arrangements, and downwind performance. They perform best in moderate to heavy wind conditions where the additional mizzen sail can provide extra balance, power, and control.

These boats shine when sailing downwind or on reaches, where their additional sails can make full use of the wind. They also work well in heavy wind conditions where reducing sail area is necessary, as their multiple smaller sails can provide more manageable options.

In terms of environments, ketches tend to thrive in areas with consistent winds and open water, such as offshore or coastal cruising routes. Their stability and easy handling can be advantageous in rough sea states or when navigating rolling swells.

However, it's worth mentioning that the performance of a ketch can depend on the specific design of the boat, the skipper's sailing skills and the crew's ability to manage and adjust the sails on board.

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Ketch sailing: Jib and jigger

• Philippa Park
• July 14, 2015

This week our blogger Jonty Pearce recounts the benefits of ketch sailing

Jonty Pearce

Carol and I are both admirers of the ketch rig. Some Yachting Monthly readers may have seen my article on the rig (Six reasons to sail a ketch, May 2014) so I won’t repeat all I wrote then apart from briefly mentioning some of the basic advantages of ketches – their sail plan options, heavy weather versatility, ability to set a riding sail at anchor, use of the mizzen boom as an outboard crane, and the handiness of the mizzen mast as a handhold and mount for kit such as a radar or wind generator.

Much as we enjoy the prettiness and practical aspects of our ketch, the ability to sail ‘jib and jigger’ outweighs all other benefits. For those lazy days when we can’t be bothered with the mainsail or when the wind is higher than for comfort we love to sail with just a foresail and mizzen sail. It does away with the big heavy flappy mainsail attached to a heavy boom crashing from side to side and leaves us with a beautifully balanced sail plan that we can easily control without leaving the cockpit. OK, there is no countering the argument that sailing without a mainsail leaves the boat underpowered in lighter winds, or that the loss of the slot effect between the genoa and the main lessens Aurial’s pointing ability, but for days of high wind or when we just want to drift the absence of the mainsail outweighs the disadvantages.

All too often we have found ourselves on passage when the forecast underestimated the local wind strength, or when we have decided to battle on through adverse conditions with a deadline to meet. When it comes to needing to reef we start by taking in a couple of rolls in the genoa before pulling down the first and then second reef slabs in the main, with progressive reduction of the genoa to match. With further wind increases, we put in the third deep reef in the main or more likely drop it altogether, leaving us sailing jib and jigger under foresail and mizzen alone.

Eventually we might put a reef in the mizzen and change the genoa to a stormsail, but usually the foam luff in our new genoa keeps the reefed sail flat enough to avoid the trip forwards on a bouncing foredeck to rig the inner forestay. Thus dressed and beautifully balanced we can make over 7 knots in a force 6 or 7 with a light helm and little fuss. And because our mainsail reefs at the mast, the accessibility of the mizzen just behind the cockpit means that we never need to go out on deck. Much of the stress of high wind sailing is averted – less heel, no fighting weather helm at the wheel, and making the coffee becomes a pleasure.

On our first sail of the season we were in a relaxed mood and the wind was fitful. I had woken with a bad back, so we ended up drifting up Milford Haven in a variable wind with just the genoa and mizzen. The sun shone, Carol helmed, and I sat back against the cushions while we coasted along. In such lazy moods without the option of the mizzen we would probably have ended up motoring – instead we were free to listen to the wildlife along the shore and had time to sink into the peace of the lovely countryside. Yes, we do relish the joys of ketch sailing!

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Ketch vs Yawl: Comparing Two Classic Sailboat Rigs

14th mar 2023 by toi williams.

Ketches and yawls are popular types of sailboats helmed by sailors around the world. Both are two-masted vessels with divided rigs, meaning the main sail area is divided between the two masts. The taller mast is the main mast while the shorter mast located behind it is called the mizzen mast. In the ketch vs. yawl debate, knowing these mast terms is key to understanding the differences between the two types of sailboats.

So, how can you tell the difference between a yawl and a ketch? Read on to learn everything you need to know about these types of sailboats.

What Is a Ketch?

The easiest way to tell a ketch and a yawl apart is by looking at the location of the mizzen mast. On a ketch, the mizzen mast is in front of the rudder post. The rudder post is where the front part of the rudder attaches to the underside of the boat. On boats steered with a tiller, the rudder post is typically located directly below the end of the tiller handle.

On ketch sailboats , the mizzen mast is shorter than the main mast. These sailboats can have triangular or square rigs, based on the specific design and age of the boat. With the sail area of a ketch split into two parts, the masts can be shorter than that of a single mast ship, so the load on each mast is less. Ketches often have Bermuda sails on both masts, although some modern ketches have gaff sails or both a gaff sail and a Bermuda sail. A ketch that has two or more jibs is called a cutter ketch.

Photo credit: Ronnie Robertson

What Is a Yawl?

A yawl can easily be mistaken for a ketch due to their similar sail arrangements. However, on a yawl, the position and size of the mizzen mast is different. For a yawl, the mizzen mast is much smaller than the one on a ketch and is located far behind the rudder post. This makes the sail area of the mizzen sail on a yawl smaller as well. 

The mizzen mast on a yawl balances the sail plan, and the mizzen sail is trimmed for balance. Easing the mizzen sail will make it less effective while over-trimming the mizzen sail will make it more effective. Because the wind force is behind the rudder, the physics of yawl vs. ketch sailing can be very different. Many yawl owners use the yawl’s mizzen sail as a wind rudder when sailing and as a stabilizer when anchoring.

Advantages of a Ketch

Ketches are widely recognized as very versatile sailboats that are highly controllable. Each of the three sails can be adjusted independently for better performance for any given wind condition. The multiple sail configurations achievable make ketches suitable boats for a variety of voyages including day sailing, solo sailing, and sailing in strong winds. 

The shorter masts and smaller sails make a ketch easier to handle than larger sailboats. It is also easier to maneuver under bridges without drastically reducing speed. The ketch’s main sail and mizzen sail can work together without the mizzen sail disturbing the main sail. Ketch rigs also have a version of self-steering, keeping the boat tracking on a straight course without constant rudder input.

For the last century, ketches have primarily been used as recreational and cruising boats. A simple cruising ketch is typically made of fiberglass, and its interior accommodations are spacious, although the cockpit space is limited because of both the mizzen mast and the rigging. A ketch usually has a bit more power than a yawl due to its larger mizzen sail.

Advantages of a Yawl

Like a ketch, a yawl is considered to be a very stable boat style that performs well in strong winds. Both can have their sails placed in multiple configurations depending on the weather conditions, making them a good selection for a wide range of sailing activities. Because the main sail is smaller and more manageable, yawls are popular with single-handed sailors. They also like that the smaller mizzen sail can be trimmed to stay on a course easily or lowered when winds pick up to reduce sail area.

Another advantage for a yawl vs. ketch is that a yawl's mizzen mast is far enough aft for the mizzen sail to really affect the position of the stern. A yawl's mizzen sail can be used to help turn the boat quickly or slow it down while sailing. It is also easy to balance against a head sail, letting sailors navigate in strong winds with the main sail furled.

For boaters interested in blue water cruising , a yawl is often the preferable option. In addition to its stability in open water, setting the mizzen sail at a particular wind angle results in reliable wind steering. If the boat veers from the course you have set it on, the mizzen sail will take the wind and push the stern back to the correct course automatically. This set wind angle can be held for long periods without help, freeing you for other tasks. 

At Rightboat, we have a wide selection of ketches and yawls in a variety of styles and sizes to fit any sailor's boating needs. You can find the right sailboat for your family and your budget by using the handy filtering tools on our website to narrow your results by size, price, and an assortment of other features. You can also search by location to see which boats we have available nearby. Our collection of new and used sailboats for sale adds new vessels frequently. Come and take a look at what we have to offer.

This article was most recently updated by John Burnham.

Written By: Toi Williams

More from: Toi Williams

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Sailboat rig types: sloop, cutter, ketch, yawl, schooner, cat.

Naval architects designate sailboat rig types by number and location of masts. The six designations are sloop, cutter, cat, ketch, yawl, and schooner. Although in defining and describing these six rigs I may use terminology associated with the sail plan, the rig type has nothing to do with the number of sails, their arrangement or location. Such terms that have no bearing on the rig type include headsail names such as jib, genoa, yankee; furling systems such as in-mast or in-boom; and sail parts such as foot, clew, tack, leach, and roach. Rig questions are one of the primary areas of interest among newcomers to sailing and studying the benefits of each type is a good way to learn about sailing. I will deal with the rigs from most popular to least.

Sloop The simplest and most popular rig today is the sloop. A sloop is defined as a yacht whose mast is somewhere between stations 3 and 4 in the 10 station model of a yacht. This definition places the mast with two thirds of the vessel aft and one third forward. The sloop is dominant on small and medium sized yachts and with the shift from large foretriangles (J-dimension in design parlance) to larger mains a solid majority on larger yachts as well. Simple sloop rigs with a single headsail point the highest because of the tighter maximum sheeting angle and therefore have the best windward performance of the rig types. They are the choice for one-design racing fleets and America’s cup challenges. The forestay can attached either at the masthead or some fraction below. These two types of sloops are described respectively as masthead or fractionally rigged. Fractionally rigged sloops where the forestay attaches below the top of the mast allow racers to easily control head and main sail shapes by tightening up the backstay and bending the mast.

Cutter A cutter has one mast like the sloop, and people rightfully confuse the two. A cutter is defined as a yachts whose mast is aft of station 4. Ascertaining whether the mast is aft or forward of station 4 (what if it is at station 4?) is difficult unless you have the design specifications. And even a mast located forward of station 4 with a long bowsprit may be more reasonably referred to as a cutter. The true different is the size of the foretriangle. As such while it might annoy Bob Perry and Jeff_h, most people just give up and call sloops with jibstays cutters. This arrangement is best for reaching or when heavy weather dictates a reefed main. In moderate or light air sailing, forget the inner staysail; it will just backwind the jib and reduce your pointing height.

Ketch The ketch rig is our first that has two masts. The main is usually stepped in location of a sloop rig, and some manufactures have used the same deck mold for both rig types. The mizzen, as the slightly shorter and further aft spar is called, makes the resulting sail plan incredibly flexible. A ketch rig comes into her own on reaching or downwind courses. In heavy weather owners love to sail under jib and jigger (jib and mizzen). Upwind the ketch suffers from backwinding of the mizzen by the main. You can add additional headsails to make a cutter-ketch.

Yawl The yawl is similar to the ketch rig and has the same trade-offs with respect to upwind and downwind performance. She features two masts just like on a ketch with the mizzen having less air draft and being further aft. In contrast and much like with the sloop vs. cutter definition, the yawl mizzen’s has much smaller sail plan. During the CCA era, naval architects defined yawl as having the mast forward or aft of the rudderpost, but in today’s world of hull shapes (much like with the sloop/cutter) that definition does not work. The true different is the height of the mizzen in proportion to the main mast. The yawl arrangement is a lovely, classic look that is rarely if ever seen on modern production yachts.

Schooner The schooner while totally unpractical has a romantic charm. Such a yacht features two masts of which the foremost is shorter than the mizzen (opposite of a ketch rig). This change has wide affects on performance and sail plan flexibility. The two masts provide a base to fly unusual canvas such as a mule (a triangular sail which spans between the two spars filling the space aft of the foremast’s mainsail). The helm is tricky to balance because apparent wind difference between the sails, and there is considerable backwinding upwind. Downwind you can put up quite a bit of canvas and build up speed.

Cat The cat rig is a single spar design like the sloop and cutter, but the mast location is definately forward of station 3 and maybe even station. You see this rig on small racing dinghies, lasers and the like. It is the simplest of rigs with no headsails and sometimes without even a boom but has little versatility. Freedom and Nonesuch yachts are famous for this rig type. A cat ketch variation with a mizzen mast is an underused rig which provides the sailplan flexibility a single masted cat boat lacks. These are great fun to sail.

Conclusion Sloop, cutter, ketch, yawl, schooner, and cat are the six rig types seen on yachts. The former three are widely more common than the latter three. Each one has unique strengths and weaknesses. The sloop is the best performing upwind while the cat is the simplest form. Getting to know the look and feel of these rig types will help you determine kind of sailing you enjoy most.

5 Replies to “Sailboat Rig Types: Sloop, Cutter, Ketch, Yawl, Schooner, Cat”

Thanks for this information. I’m doing my research on what type of sailboat I will eventually buy and was confused as to all the different configurations! This helped quite a bit.

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Being from the south, my distinction between a ketch and a yawl: if that mizzen falls over on a ketch, the boat will catch it; if it falls over on a yawl, it’s bye bye y’all.

I thought a Yawl had to have the mizzen mast behind the rudder and a ketch had the mizzen forward of the rudder.

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How to distinguish a ketch, a yawl or a schooner?

If for you all the sailing boats merge, here is how to differentiate those which are rigged with 2 masts. To help you classify the types of yachts, here is a series entitled"Learn to recognize them". Today, the differences between a ketch, a yawl and a schooner.

Sailing boats with two masts are classified in 3 categories: the ketch , the yawl and the schooner .

Ketch : - 1 mainsail - 2 jib or genoa - 3 mizzen

A ketch has the mizzen mast (at the stern) smaller than the main mast (called mainmast). To be a ketch , the mizzen mast must be placed forward of the helm, or more precisely of the rudder. If the mizzen mast is aft, we are dealing with a yawl (see below).

A ketch always has a mainsail without a jib. A ketch that rigs a jib (triangular sail above) the jib is a Dundee.

Yawl : - 1 mainsail - 2 jibs or genoa - 3 tapes

The yawl has the same rigging as the ketch , but the mizzen is called here a tape-cul and it is placed behind the rudder. Often small, it is not used to propel the boat , but to balance the yacht according to the conditions.

Placed far back on the boat , it often requires a mallet tail (a kind of bowsprit towards the back) to carry its sheet. It can be fitted with an under-bar for its rigidity.

The schooner

Schooner (masts of identical heights) : - 1 foresail - 2 jib or genoa - 3 mainsail

Goelette (foremast smaller than the mainmast) : - 1 foresail - 2 jib or genoa - 3 mainsail

The schooner has at least 2 masts, but can carry more. The masts are either identical in size, or the foremast (foremast) is smaller than the main mast. There are many forms of sail on schooners that the foresail rigged as a mainsail (on a boom) or as a jib with the halyard point on the main mast.

Among the known examples of ketch we can quote Pen Duick VI with which Tarbaly won the solo transatlantic race or Joshua with which Moitessier made his famous round-the-world trip

Typical of the yawl , the boat designed by Harlé for Van Den Heede with which he finished 3rd in his first Vendée Globle.

The exploration boats Tara and Why are schooners with a main mast as high as the foremast.

Buying a Sailboat: Sloop vs. Ketch

Consider many different questions when deciding what kind of sailboat is best for you. If you are looking for a cruising sailboat, depending on your preferred size range, you may be choosing between a sloop and a ketch. These are the two most common  types of cruising sailboats . Each offers certain advantages.

massmatt/Flickr/CC BY 2.0

A sloop is generally the most common type of sailboat rig. A sloop has a single mast and usually only two sails: the mainsail and a headsail, such as a jib or a genoa. A sloop may also use a racing or cruising spinnaker.

Sloops come in all sizes, from 8-foot dinghies to maxi boats over a hundred feet long. A sloop uses what is called a Bermuda or Marconi rig. This is the tall, thin, triangular mainsail that's commonly seen on the waters of popular boating areas.

The sloop rig generally is simpler to use and cheaper to build than a ketch rig. Because of the wind and sail dynamics involved, a sloop is almost always faster than other rigs in boats of comparable size, especially when sailing windward.

Jukka/Flickr/CC BY 2.0

A ketch is a common rig for cruising sailboats. It has two masts: a traditional mainmast as on a sloop, plus a smaller mast in the rear of the boat. This is called the mizzenmast. Technically, the mizzenmast must be mounted forward of the boat’s rudderpost to be a ketch. If the mizzen is mounted further aft, behind the rudder post, it is considered a yawl. The mizzenmast is typically smaller on a yawl than on a ketch, but otherwise, these rigs are similar.

A ketch, therefore, uses three primary sails: the mainsail and headsail, as on a sloop, plus the mizzen sail aft. A ketch may also use a spinnaker.

The three sails do not necessarily mean that the sail area on a ketch is larger than on a sloop of the same size, however. Sail area is usually planned by boat designers based on the boat's size, displacement (weight), hull shape and configuration, not on the number of masts or sails. This means that the mainsail and headsail of a ketch are generally smaller than on a sloop, but the mizzen sail roughly makes up the difference.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Sloops vs. Ketches

 Gellinger/Pixabay/CC0 Creative Commons

Sloops and ketches each have their own benefits, but also disadvantages. When deciding what type of boat to buy, consider these differences.

Advantages of a Sloop

• A sloop is generally faster and sails closer to the wind.
• Sloops have fewer sails than ketches to buy and maintain.
• With a sloop, there is less standing and running rigging with one mast, which means there is less to manage and maintain overall.
• As the most popular contemporary boat, sloops are available in a wide variety.

Disadvantages of a Sloop

• Sloop sails are generally larger and heavier, requiring more strength for handling, hoisting, and trimming, particularly on a larger boat.
• Sloops have fewer options to reduce sail area in stronger winds. Sloops offer only reefing or furling of the sails.

Advantages of a Ketch

• Ketches have smaller sails. These sails are more easily managed and hoisted on a larger boat, which is why ketches are preferred by many older sailors.
• Using only two sails at a time provides multiple options for managing different sailing conditions, such as strong winds.

Disadvantages of a Ketch

• Ketch rigs generally do not sail as fast or as close to the wind as a sloop sailboat.
• Ketches have more standing rigging (shrouds and stays) and running rigging (halyards and sheets) to manage and maintain.
• The mizzenmast in ketches takes up space in the stern.
• There are fewer ketches available on the market. Ketches are more popular as an older boat.

Most ketches are intended as cruising boats that are easy to handle and comfortable for cruising. Many sloops, even sketch sloops, are designed for greater speed and racing. Many ketches, therefore, are different from sloops in ways other than just the masts and sails. Designed as cruisers, many ketches are heavier, more stable in sea conditions, and more commodious down below. On the other hand, contemporary builders produce few ketches, so there are a greater variety of sloops available as new boats.

As in other decisions when shopping for a sailboat, the preferable rig depends mostly on your preferred uses of the boat. The same is true when comparing fixed keel and centerboard sailboats.

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Definition of ketch

Illustration of ketch, examples of ketch in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ketch.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

alteration of catch , from Middle English cache

circa 1649, in the meaning defined above

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“Ketch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ketch. Accessed 21 Jul. 2024.

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• a sailing vessel rigged fore and aft on two masts, the larger, forward one being the mainmast and the after one, stepped forward of the rudderpost, being the mizzen or jigger.
• a two-masted sailing vessel, fore-and-aft rigged, with a tall mainmast and a mizzen stepped forward of the rudderpost Compare yawl 1

Word History and Origins

Origin of ketch 1

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How does ketch compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• ketch vs. sloop
• ketch vs. schooner

Example Sentences

Our 114-foot-long ketch, which I’ll call Persephone, was anchored off the volcanic, uninhabited islands of Yemen’s Zubair archipelago.

Blamed if Matt didn't ketch the leader o' the gang without never knowin' it.

They's times when I git mad and it all looks to be her fault, and then I ketch my own self startin' some hectorin' meanness.

But you don't ketch me comin' over to no more cathedrils, and wastin' time and money all for nuthink—that's all!

The birds an' flyin' things are jest as busy as the hand o' man, if ye know how to ketch 'em at it.

Mebbe nobody won't ketch ye this time,—you better melt the tea-set up soon as ever you can,—but some time they will.

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• cabin cruiser
• dragon boat
• rubber dinghy

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lunar calendar

any of various systems for measuring the days, weeks, and months of the year that are based on the phases of the moon (= the regular changes in the shape of the moon as it appears to us on earth)

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