Homemade Sail for a Kayak

Sailing a kayak can be as simple as opening a golf umbrella, but many paddlers want to try making larger sails. Kayaks made for paddling don't include fittings for a mast or ways to run lines for a sail. But you can find a way to make a simple sailing rig for almost any kayak.

  1. The Mast Step

    • To mount a sail on your kayak, you first need a way to set up a mast. A "mast step" is just a place on a boat where the bottom end of the mast is set to keep it secure and steady for sailing. Your kayak almost certainly doesn't have one. You have to improvise. The lower it goes, the better. You may have to open some cargo hatches to reach the inside bottom of the hull. If possible, the mast step should be mounted on the bottom of the hull. A small can is perfect for the function. The mast step should be secured with very strong adhesive and with some kind of braces from at least two directions. The mast itself should be braced as well where it passes upward through the deck.

    The Mast

    • For your kayak, you need a mast that is lightweight yet stiff enough not to bend under pressure. Options to consider include broomstick, a length of strong aluminum tubing, a length of copper pipe or PVC pipe. The softer the material you choose, the shorter your mast should be.

    The Sail

    • You'll need to make a sail. A bedsheet, an old nylon tent floor, or a shower curtain will do. Sketch a few designs on paper first. A triangular shape is almost always the easiest way. If you depart from a triangular design, you should have a good reason. Attach one side of the sail to your mast securely so that you can roll up some of the sail in strong winds and unroll it in lighter winds.

      You'll also need a line attached to the lower edge of the sail at the furthest point from the mast. Choose something lightweight, water-resistant, and strong. Nylon rope is a good idea. Attach it securely to the sail. Install and use a grommet if you can.

    Steering Mechanism

    • Some kayaks already have a foot-controlled rudder mounted in back. Use it to steer as you sail just as when you paddle. If your kayak has no rudder, you'll need to devise a steering mechanism for sailing. The simplest one might be an oar extended behind you, held under your arm. Another option is a simple tiller, perhaps scavenged from an old sailing dinghy such as a Sunfish or a Laser, mounted on the back.

    Limitations of Sailing a Kayak

    • A kayak with a homemade sail can sail downwind very well. However, it cannot possibly sail upwind as can ships with keels or centerboards.