mast

Masts are long poles that extend up vertically from the keel and deck of a ship. They carry the rigging, spars and sails by which ships are propelled. To achieve the desired height of the mast, upper sections called topmasts, topgallant masts and royal masts can be added. Ships and barques have three masts: the foremast at the front, the mainmast (which is the highest) and the mizzenmast at the back of the vessel. Brigs and schooners have two masts: the foremast and the mainmast.