Sailing Ship

ocean · wind power · history · exploration

Sails catch wind. Sailing ships use large pieces of fabric called sails attached to tall poles called masts to catch the wind and push the ship forward across the water. The bigger and better positioned the sails, the faster the ship can go.

Different sail plans. Ships use two main types of sails: square sails that stick out at right angles from the mast, and fore-and-aft sails that run along the length of the ship. Different ships mix and match these sails based on what works best for their needs.

Many sail arrangements. Ships like brigs have square sails on each mast, while schooners use only fore-and-aft sails. Other ships like barques and brigantines use both types together to get the best of both sailing styles.

Ocean exploration tool. For hundreds of years, sailing ships were the main way people traveled long distances across oceans and discovered new lands. They could carry explorers, traders, and supplies across vast stretches of water.

Three or more masts. The biggest sailing ships, called full-rigged ships, had three or more masts working together to catch even more wind. This extra power helped them carry heavier loads and sail more steadily through rough waters.