Yawl

A yawl is a type of sailboat characterized by its two masts: a main mast, and a smaller mizzen mast stepped aft of the rudder post. This rig provides a balanced sail plan, offering good performance in various wind conditions. Yawls are typically smaller than ketches, another two-masted sailing vessel. The mizzen sail, often boom-supported, aids in steering and stability, making yawls well-suited for coastal cruising and longer voyages where ease of handling is prioritized. The yawl design prioritizes maneuverability and ease of sail trimming, particularly for shorthanded sailing.

Yawl meaning with examples

• The seasoned sailor effortlessly steered the yawl through the choppy waters, the mizzen sail providing crucial stability in the strong gusts. Its compact size and adaptable rig made it a perfect vessel for exploring the coves and inlets that the larger vessels couldn't reach, giving the vessel exceptional handling in narrow waterways.
• They decided to buy a classic wooden yawl, carefully examining its lines and features. Its traditional design, with its distinctive sail plan, reflected a bygone era of sailing, and they were eager to restore it to its former glory. They imagined themselves on a transatlantic crossing, where the mizzen would offer vital balance in the open ocean.
• The local sailing club hosted a regatta, with several yawls competing in a special class. The skilled crews demonstrated their seamanship by optimizing sail trim. They tacked and jibed with precision, showcasing the advantages of the yawl's balanced sail plan, and they were victorious overall in the competition.
• After spending several years on sailboats, they preferred the ease of handling afforded by a yawl. The yawl was an ideal design for weekend trips, offering a comfortable and manageable platform for sailing adventures. They often took the family, appreciating the balance of performance and ease of control the yawl offered.