What is topping lift?

• A. A long handle to sit out at the side.
• B. The vertical surface of the stern.
• C. The track for adjusting mainsail angle.
• D. A line used to hold the boom up when the mainsail is lowered or stowed.

Answer: (D)

The topping lift is the line that runs from the top of the mast to the end of the boom to hold the boom up when the mainsail is lowered or stowed. Its main job is to keep the boom from dropping and getting in the way while you handle the sail. When you raise the mainsail, you let the topping lift out so the boom can sit at the proper height; when you lower or reef the sail, you tension the topping lift to lift and support the boom, making it easier to work with the sail and secure equipment.

The other options describe different things on a boat and don’t fit the function of a topping lift: a long handle to sit out at the side isn’t a standard sailing term; the vertical surface of the stern is the transom; and a track for adjusting mainsail angle refers to the mainsail’s car track or slides, not a line that holds the boom up.