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How often should you have your rigg checked in the sailboat?

How often should you have your rig checked on the sailboat?

The rig is one of the most important elements of a sailing boat. It ensures that the mast is secure and that the sails can work optimally. But how often should it actually be checked and maintained? Here you can find out what is important to keep your boat safe and in top condition.

Regular inspections: Every 3,000 nautical miles or every 4 years at the latest

As a general rule of thumb, your rig should be thoroughly checked after 3,000 nautical miles or every four years at the latest. This comprehensive inspection includes the following steps, among others:

  • Checking the elongation: The rig’s stays and shrouds should be checked for elongation. Any unusual elongation can indicate material weaknesses.
  • Visual inspection and removal of components: Bolts, eyes, terminals, toggles, jibs and shrouds are removed and inspected for wear or damage. The visual inspection is particularly important here, as it can reveal cracks or other damage.

Annual check of the load points

In addition to the major inspection, you should carry out a visual inspection of all load points every year. This involves the components that are subject to particularly heavy loads:

  • Cleaning and polishing: To ensure that the material lasts a long time, all parts of the rig should be cleaned and polished regularly. Use seawater-resistant anti-rust oil and grease to protect the rig against the elements.
  • Check for cracks or pitting: After polishing, rust spots should be examined with a magnifying glass for possible cracks or pitting. Segregation can occur, particularly with impure metals or production errors, which make the material susceptible to damage.

Check furling systems and forestay

Another important part of the inspection is the furling system. Here you should completely dismantle the system to check the forestay, especially the upper end. Compressions occur here particularly frequently and can lead to dangerous weak points.

Deck breakthroughs and mast stops

The deck openings should not be forgotten either. It is important to check the screw bolts here, as they can rust due to moisture. Condensation moisture in particular can cause pitting if the openings are no longer gas-tight.

The fittings and stops on the mast itself should be checked regularly, removed and refitted after cleaning. This will ensure that everything is secure and that no parts fail due to material fatigue.

Insurance and obligation to provide evidence

Depending on the insurance conditions, the rigging, shrouds, fittings and bolts must be replaced every 6, 10 or 12 years at the latest. Otherwise you risk losing your insurance cover. It is advisable to have the condition of the rigging documented by a certified rigger by means of an annual rigging check and report. This proof can be crucial in order to obtain full cover in the event of a claim. Insurance companies can otherwise deduct up to 20 % of the cover or only reimburse a lump sum.

Manufacturer recommendations for rig renewal

The manufacturers of rigs and steel cables recommend completely replacing the rig between 20,000 and 40,000 nautical miles or after 4 to 12 years at the latest. Materials that comply with EU standards, such as DIN 1.4401 or AISI316, should be used to ensure maximum safety and durability.

Our summary

It is important never to neglect the rigging of your boat. With catamarans in particular, care should be taken to ensure that no shrouds are loose while the boat is under sail – in contrast to monohulls, where this is more common. A regular check and careful maintenance of the rig not only ensure safety, but also a smooth and relaxed sailing trip.