From the first remains of a Mesopotamian sailboat discovered in modern-day Kuwait to the impressive brigantines that took Charles Darwin around the world, the sailing ship has been instrumental in the evolution of human civilizations. As boats of all shapes and sizes became increasingly capable, sailors pushed the boundaries of exploration and commerce with ever-larger vessels. The resulting ships became a symbol of power and status, both in the eyes of the public and in the minds of maritime professionals.
The basic construction of a sailboat begins with the fiberglass laminating process for the hull and matching deck. Once thoroughly cured, a mechanical fastener system is passed through the hull and deck and locked into place with stainless steel bolts and nuts that are specially designed for marine construction. Next, plumbing is installed. Hoses are needed to supply fresh water for toilets and showers (on larger vessels) and to return dirty water to onboard sewage tanks. Electrical lines are also run as needed for onboard systems.
A keel is a large “fin”-looking attachment at the bottom of the hull that helps reduce sideways slippage called leeway. It may be a full keel or bilge keel, and is often used in areas with high tidal ranges. Modern monocoque designs often use a virtual keel in the form of an internal structure.
The mainsail, or sails, are then attached to the mast. The boat’s rudder is located at the stern and, along with the tiller or wheel, helps steer the vessel. A tiller is a small, horizontal rod or pole used to steer the boat, while a wheel can be found on larger ships.
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