How to Step Up a Sailboat Mast

To "step up" a mast in sailing is to place the mast into the upright position. This typically requires two people. Once the mast is up, you must secure the set screws and attachments to keep it upright and ready to be rigged with the sails. Learn the process on small sailboats to get your feet wet in the sailing world.

Things You'll Need

  • Mast attachment screws
  • Rigging ropes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Line a rigging rope through the top of the mast. Assign your assistant to stand on the opposite side of the mast.

    • 2

      Tie the rigging rope to the mast eye-screw. Walk backward with the line until it is taught.

    • 3

      Pull back on the line and have the assistant push the mast on the opposite side until the mast begins to rise off the ground. Keep the large end of the mast in the middle of the sailboat, next to the mounting bracket.

    • 4

      Continue raising the mast until it is perpendicular to the boat deck. Have the assistant place the set screws or connecting rods into the mounting bracket to secure the mast, as the assistant will be closest to the bracket. Continue to hold the rigging line while the assistant secures the mast.