Name: Spars Rigging and Sails- working together
Start: 2026-09-12T16:30:00-0700
End: 2026-09-12T18:00:00-0700

Spars Rigging and Sails- working together

Saturday September 12, 2026 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT

Cruising Stage

Moderated by Allison Woods
Megan Hudson, Mark Shiner, Chance Bates, Justin Lathrop, Ossian Smith, Bruce Tipton

A sailing rig only works when every piece works together.
Sails, rigging, and spars are deeply interconnected — each affecting how a boat performs, balances, handles, and endures at sea. It’s far more complex than simply ordering a sail or stepping a mast. Sail shape influences rig loads, rigging affects sail trim, spars bend and flex under pressure, and every detail must work in harmony.
Join working sailmakers, riggers, and spar makers for a fascinating conversation about the collaboration, craftsmanship, and problem-solving required to bring a successful sailing rig to life — from traditional wooden boats to modern voyaging vessels.

Speakers

Alison Wood

Port Townsend Sails

Alison grew up sailing the Intercoastal waterways of the Southeast. She was part of an all female crew to deliver an Irwin 43 from Key West to Annapolis for the famous Tanya Abei. She completed an apprenticeship with Brion Toss Yacht Riggers before joining the crew of Port Townsend... Read More →

Saturday September 12, 2026 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT
Cruising Stage

Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival 2026

Alison Wood

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Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival 2026

Alison Wood

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