The Potential Performance of Ancient Mediterranean Sailing Rigs

Abstract

A common statement in the academic literature relating to the ancient Mediterranean is that the lateen/settee rig superseded the Mediterranean square‐sail because it provided superior upwind performance, greater manoeuvrability and higher overall speed. This statement has been repeated so often that it is now commonly accepted. Research by the author sets out to develop an insight into the relative performance of both types of rig, based on historical sources, ethnographic records and the performance of representative, full‐size sailing vessels. This allows a reassessment to be made of the underlying reasons behind the adoption of the lateen/settee rig in the Mediterranean.

© 2010 The Author

Key words:

• sailing performance
• square‐sail
• lateen
• settee
• Mediterranean

Acknowledgments

The author would like to thank Colin Palmer for reading and commenting on a draft of this paper. Additionally, Anton Englert has provided important and ongoing discussion with the author concerning the use of the data from trial voyages and historical sources as a means to gain insight into past sail performance. In both cases, their advice, comments and insights are warmly appreciated.