Stupid Sailboat Anatomy Question

[5hortBu5]

So, in describing either the method by which I raise my mast, or the function of a tabernacle, I come to the part of the story in which I have to mention the hole in the deck through which the mast passes on its way to the step on the hull.

Mast-hole just doesn't sound right.

Is there a better/proper/seamanly name for that?

[AboardIndigo]

Mast hole. Or partners if you're talking about the bracing around the mast hole.

I know that because I looked it up, not because I'm a nautical genius.

[5hortBu5]

For real? In a field where everything has an obscure name, I figured there *had* to be a different name than "Mast hole". That's crazy.

[deniseO30]

I think "partner" is the word since the hole is the partner to the mast step. but whaaaata do I know.

[AboardIndigo]

Mast 'opening' is valid too, and arguably sounds prettier.

I can't find a reference to anything other than that.

[QuickMick]

the tabernacale is where all the mormons congregate to sing and do all their secret dances and stuff.

[IslanderGuy]

Perhaps the mast "Through Deck"? Like a "Through Hull", but... um... not in the hull...

I think I have seen fittings for water and fuel fills labeled this way in the stores, "Through deck fuel fill fitting" or something....

Maybe a "Mastway" like a Companionway? But not for, um, companions...

Or, I think SailNet is big enough to start coining our own nautical terms. Any humorous suggestions if the real name can not be found? I am not that creative, so no funny ones here...

(And on another note, if you are a solo sailor, is it still a companionway even though you have no companions to go through it? Hmmmm.... )

[QuickMick]

method by which mast is raised = viagra.

sorry, couldnt resist.

[Sixpoint]

So, we've danced all around it...let's go straight at it, shall we?

In the nautical tradition of verbal attrition, ie fo'c'sle...

How about mas'hole?

[IslanderGuy]

Originally Posted by QuickMick

method by which mast is raised = viagra.

sorry, couldnt resist.

I prefer the old fashion, low tech method. A good wench will pull my mast right up... oops, I meant winch!