Rigging work brings together the mast, its support and the lines you handle every sail. Find riggers for replacement work, changes to your setup and practical conversations about an ageing rig.
Map the rig before asking for a price
A yacht's rigging includes several connected jobs, from standing rigging that supports the mast to running rigging used to handle sails. Begin by identifying what you want assessed or changed. Gather the mast details, approximate rig age, previous invoices and photographs of the relevant fittings. Tell the rigger about any known damage, unusual noises or recent modifications without trying to diagnose the cause yourself. A clear history helps the business decide what inspection is needed before quoting. A request to replace the rig means little unless both parties understand which components and associated work are included.
Distinguish maintenance from a new arrangement
Replacing existing components is different from altering sail controls, fitting a new furler or changing the deck layout. Explain the result you want and the way you normally sail the boat. Short-handed handling, racing adjustments and cruising simplicity may lead to different discussions. Ask the rigger to consider compatibility with the mast, sails and deck hardware rather than selecting parts in isolation. The mast manufacturer's technical guidance is useful background, but it does not replace assessment of the installed boat. A specialist should identify what needs measuring or inspection before recommending an arrangement that affects the rig as a system.
Plan access and supporting work
Find out whether the proposed job can be completed with the mast in place or whether unstepping is required. Discuss the yard, crane access, storage and any electrical or instrument connections that need attention. Several trades may be involved, so agree who coordinates each part. Ask whether the quotation includes removing old components, supplying replacements, fitting and final setup. If access exposes another problem, establish how it will be documented and authorised. Planning these details early avoids treating unstepping, transport or reassembly as an unexpected extra after the boat has already been committed to the work.
Compare documentation as well as components
A useful rigging quote identifies the proposed components and the work around them. Ask the rigger to explain any alternatives and why they suit the vessel. Keep written records of what is replaced and what remains in service. If you need documentation for another purpose, discuss that requirement before the job begins rather than assuming a routine invoice will be sufficient. Avoid universal rules about rig life or replacement timing: the appropriate assessment depends on the equipment, history and circumstances. The purpose of the conversation is to understand your rig and the specialist's recommendations for that specific arrangement.
Make handover part of the project
At completion, ask the rigger to walk you through the work and explain any follow-up checks or adjustments it recommends. Keep component details, photographs and instructions with the boat's records. If controls have changed, make sure the crew understands the new arrangement before a demanding sail. Ask how to report an issue and whether a follow-up visit is included. Seldén's published rigging material can help owners become familiar with terminology, but the instructions and assessment relevant to your mast take priority. A well-documented job makes future maintenance more informed and reduces uncertainty for the next person working on the boat.
Make the first enquiry count.
A change to the sail-handling arrangement may affect several pieces of the rig. Describe the whole task and the current equipment, then ask the rigger what needs assessment before a solution is chosen. Keep access and any yard dependencies in the same brief.
What a useful quote should settle
Clarify inspection, proposed work, components, access arrangements, adjustments, reporting and the completion discussion.
How to compare marine service quotes →Which conversation do you need?
Start with the situation that describes your job. These are different enquiry briefs, so ask the provider to confirm the scope that fits yours.
Condition enquiry
An observation needs a professional assessment.
Which scope will answer the specific concern?
Proposed change
You want a different handling arrangement.
What other components or access requirements are affected?
Documented work
An inspection has already identified next steps.
How will completed work be recorded against those findings?
Three steps to a clearer decision.
Which scope will answer the specific concern?
What other components or access requirements are affected?
How will completed work be recorded against those findings?
Before you make the next move.
Is rig tuning the same as an inspection?
Ask the rigger to define each service. Adjusting an arrangement and assessing condition can answer different questions. If you need both, say so explicitly and agree the scope rather than assuming one includes the other.
What should I send before the appointment?
Send the boat details, known rig history and the photographs the rigger requests. Explain the reason for the visit and where the boat can be accessed. Keep documented facts distinct from recollections.
Rigger: enquiry checklist
Use this to prepare your first enquiry. Print a copy to keep with your notes.
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Use the guidance relevant to your equipment, location and intended use.
Seldén: rig assembly and operating manuals ↗
