DUNCAN KENT has been testing boats for more than 25 years and is a technical feature writer and editor for numerous nautical magazines including YM
During the spring fit-out we often appear to lavish far more attention on the engine and electrical systems than we do on the rig, despite the latter presenting a much greater risk to both yacht and crew should it fail in any way. However, because a yacht’s standing rigging has so many possible weak points it can be tricky to predict when any part of it is about to break. Close inspection should be a mandatory element of the pre-season preparations and checks.
A detailed rig check will rarely take more than a couple of hours to complete and should really be carried out prior to any long passage or extended cruise. There are a number of telltale signs that should be looked for before, or soon after you launch for the new season, and several maintenance tasks that can be carried out to
