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Boat terminology

What is the difference between a 'shroud' and a 'stay'?

Short answer

Shrouds support the mast from the sides; stays support it fore and aft

Shrouds are the wire cables that support the mast laterally (from the sides of the hull). Stays support the mast fore and aft — the forestay runs from the masthead to the bow, and the backstay runs from the masthead to the stern. Both are standing rigging.

Sources and scope

Reviewed by Richard Moore on . This answer is scoped to united kingdom and general recreational seamanship; check the current chart, publication, local rules and official operational guidance before acting afloat.

Quick check

What is the difference between a 'shroud' and a 'stay'?