spinnaker pole sailboat

How To Rig, Set Up & Hoist a Spinnaker: Full Guide

It's a beautiful, sunny day. You're sailing upwind, and all around you colorful spinnakers fill and flutter as boats sail the other way. Wouldn't it be nice to break that sail out of the bag for the ride back down wind?

How do you rig, set up and hoist a spinnaker?

• Prepare the kite by finding the corner and making sure the sail isn't twisted
• Run your spinnaker sheets and guys before attaching to tack and clew
• Attach the halyard to the head, make sure it is outside the headstay
• Set the pole by putting the sheets and guys in the pole's jaws
• Hoist the pole
• Hoist the spinnaker

It seems daunting, but the principles of setting a symmetrical spinnaker are the same whether you're on a 420 dinghy or a fifty foot racer. You may have a few more lines, but the general process is: prep the spinnaker, connect the lines to the sail, hoist the pole on the windward side, then hoist and trim the sail.

There's a little more to it (of course), and each step has a few things to get right. But we've got you covered.

On this page:

Spinnaker basics, steps to set it, setting problems, the bear-away set, asymmetrical differences.

Spinnaker come in two types: symmetrical and asymmetrical. The symmetry refers to the length of the sides of the sails. An asymmetrical spinnaker has a tack and a distinct leech . A symmetrical spinnaker has both sides the same length and requires a pole to position. The tack and leech of a symmetrical sail depends on which side the pole is on - the pole side is the tack. Symmetrical sails aresailed deeper downwind with the poles, whereas asymmetrical spinnakers are better at reaching and sailing at higher angles, and are simpler to set and handle.

In this article, we'll focus mainly on symmetrical spinnakers.

Spinnaker Controls and Lines

A spinnaker connects the boat with a halyard at the head of the sail to hoist it, a sheet on the leeward side, and a guy on the windward side. While the guy is a pole control, some boats use dedicated sheets and guys, while some use a single line that switches function between sheet and guy as the sail jibes from side to side. In either case, the guy connects to the sail, not the pole, and runs through the jaws of the pole. The sheet is used to trim the sail as we adjust the pole with the guy.

When the sail is set, the lines not under load are the lazy guy or sheet. The sheet on the windward side and the guy on the leeward side will be the lazy sheet and lazy guy . Not all boats use separate sheets and guys, so there may not be a lazy guy/sheet.

Pole Controls

The spinnaker guy is used to control the position of the pole, and the angle of attack of the sail to the wind. Trim to keep the pole at a right angle to the wind. Most poles have a pole topping lift and a downhaul (also called a foreguy ). On the mast, there will be a pole car or ring with an attachment point which sets the inboard height of the pole. The topping lift and foreguy keep the pole in a level position, perpendicular to the water, and can be adjusted to match the car position. The pole is trimmed lower in lighter air, though a detailed spinnaker trimming guide is outside the scope of this post.

For simplicity, we'll assume you’re out for a simple sail, not racing. The jib is down, and you're ready to turn the boat down wind. Racers do things a little differently, but you will need to master a basic bareheaded set before you get too fancy.

Step 1 - Prepping the Kite

("kite" or "chute" are common nicknames for a spinnaker)

To launch a spinnaker from a bag without twists, someone needs to run the tapes when the spinnaker is packed. Find the head of the sail, run it between your fingers down one edge of the sail (or the tape , referring to the thicker reinforcement on the edge), making sure there are no twists or loops. Continue until you reach the next corner. If you find any twists or loops, work then out. Leave that corner outside the bag, then start again at the head and run the other tape. Leave the head and two clews out. This step can be done at the dock before leaving, or any time, as long as someone knows it has been properly packed . Do not assume.

You can bring the spinnaker bag up on deck for this, or leave it in the v-berth if there is a hatch suitable for pulling it through. This is more common when racing.

Step 2 - Plugging in the Spinnaker

Spinnaker sheets and guys should be run before connecting to the spinnaker. Most sheets and guys go through a fairlead or turning block at the stern of the boat before running forward to the spinnaker.

When you run the lines, take care they are free and outside of all lifelines, jib sheets and other obstructions before connecting to them to the tack and clew of the sail. Take the halyard and connect it to the head, making sure it is outside the headstay and any pole control lines or other entanglements.

Step 3 - Setting the Pole

If the pole isn’t normally stored on the mast, one end will need to connected. Attach the topping lift and down haul, and put the sheets and guys in the jaws now.

Whether the jaws go up or down is a personal preference, and some boats work better than others in different positions. Some argue that spinnaker forces pull up, so that jaws-down holds them from flying out when it's opened. Others maintain it's easier and more natural to slap a non-loaded sheet and guy into a jaws-up pole, with gravity to hold it there. This is a question of comfort and experience.

Hoist the pole to the proper height for the breeze.

Step 4 - Hoist!

When the boat is turned off the wind to the angle you want to sail, you are ready to hoist the sail.

With the pole set forward, hoist the sail up quickly with the halyard, then trim the sail and pole once it is at full hoist.

• You won't be able to trim the pole until the spinnaker is mostly up, but move it back when you can. It will help it fill and stay under control.
• To get the sail up more quickly, you can have someone at the mast to "bump" the halyard by pulling it at the mast while some else takes up the slack.
• If launching from a bag, attach the bag to the boat or you might launch it into the air with the sail. Most bags have Velcro straps or clips on them for connecting to lifelines or other boat hardware.

There are a few problems to watch for when setting. Twists, hourglasses, and forestay wraps are the most common, and can even happen with a properly packed spinnaker with no twists, though that is the most common cause of hour-glassing and wraps.

Avoid pulling too hard or panicking when these things happen, it just wraps things tighter. You can worked twists out if you stop the hoist and pull down from the center of the foot and the clew. If it's too bad, lower the sail, untwist it, rerun tapes, and re-pack the sail.

When racing, it's slow to run "bare headed" without a jib. Racers will do a "bear-away" set, which is like the set described above, except on a few points. It's easier and faster, but it takes more people and a little preparation since a quick set is the goal.

• The jib is left up, so the spinnaker halyard runs outside the jib when the spinnaker is connected.
• The spinnaker can be hoisted earlier as the jib will blanket it.
• The pole can be trimmed back when the sail is out and filling.
• The jib is "blown" - quickly released and gathered on the deck for the down wind leg.

Since there is no pole, an asymmetrical spinnaker is far easier to rig, set, and hoist. There are only two sheets, and no pole controls.

• Most boats will have a short pole on the bow for attaching the tack. There may be an adjustable tack line to set the tack height for different conditions. The pole may also have adjustments.
• The lazy sheet should run around the outside headstay.
• Many asymmetrical spinnakers have a dousing sock or turtle , which makes launching easier. The sail is hoisted inside this cover, then the sock pulled down to let the sail fill.
• Some asymmetrical spinnakers can be rigged on a detachable, lightweight furler.
• Asymmetrical spinnakers can not sail as deep down wind as a symmetrical sail with a pole. However, they can be carried at higher angles of reaching and can make up for the lack of down wind capability with more reaching speed.

You stated for symmetrical spinnaker that the pole is kept “perpendicular to the water - wrong - it should be perpendicular to the wind

Bill Wheary

The pole is kept perpendicular to the MAST to that the luff of the spinnaker is as far as possible from the mast and luff of the main.

Although the pole is usually set as close to perpendicular to the wind, in most cases the pole is adjusted so as to position the the CORD between the spinnaker tack and clew perpendicular to the wind.

Leave a comment

Own your first boat within a year on any budget.

A sailboat doesn't have to be expensive if you know what you're doing. If you want to learn how to make your sailing dream reality within a year, leave your email and I'll send you free updates . I don't like spam - I will only send helpful content.

Ready to Own Your First Boat?

Just tell us the best email address to send your tips to:

Building a custom spinnaker pole

Enhance your boat's performance and increase your downwind sailing options with a custom spinnaker pole.

Building a Custom Spinnaker Pole

Welcome to another informative article in our Boat Modifications and Upgrades section. Today, we will be discussing how to build a custom spinnaker pole for your sailing vessel. This article is perfect for those who are looking to enhance their sailing experience and improve their boat’s performance.

A spinnaker pole is an essential piece of equipment for any serious sailor. It allows you to fly a spinnaker sail, which can significantly increase your boat’s speed and efficiency when sailing downwind. In this article, we will cover the following topics:

• What is a spinnaker pole and why do you need one?
• Choosing the right materials for your custom spinnaker pole
• Designing and building your custom spinnaker pole
• Installing and using your new spinnaker pole

What is a Spinnaker Pole and Why Do You Need One?

A spinnaker pole is a horizontal pole that extends from the mast of your boat to the clew (bottom corner) of your spinnaker sail. It helps to keep the sail open and stable, allowing you to harness the full power of the wind when sailing downwind.

There are several reasons why you might want to invest in a custom spinnaker pole for your boat:

• Improved Performance : A well-designed spinnaker pole can significantly improve your boat’s downwind performance, allowing you to sail faster and more efficiently.
• Increased Versatility : A spinnaker pole allows you to fly a spinnaker sail in a wider range of wind conditions, giving you more options when planning your sailing route.
• Enhanced Safety : A stable and secure spinnaker pole can help to prevent accidental jibes and other dangerous situations when sailing downwind.

Choosing the Right Materials for Your Custom Spinnaker Pole

When building a custom spinnaker pole, it’s essential to choose the right materials for the job. The two most common materials used for spinnaker poles are aluminum and carbon fiber. Each material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, which we will discuss below.

Aluminum is a popular choice for spinnaker poles due to its affordability, durability, and ease of fabrication. Some advantages of using aluminum for your spinnaker pole include:

• Cost-Effective : Aluminum is generally less expensive than carbon fiber, making it a more budget-friendly option for many sailors.
• Durable : Aluminum poles are resistant to corrosion and can withstand the harsh marine environment.
• Easy to Fabricate : Aluminum is relatively easy to work with, making it a good choice for DIY projects.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using aluminum for your spinnaker pole:

• Heavier : Aluminum poles are typically heavier than carbon fiber poles, which can affect your boat’s performance and handling.
• Less Stiff : Aluminum poles are generally less stiff than carbon fiber poles, which can result in more flex and reduced performance.

Carbon Fiber

Carbon fiber is another popular choice for spinnaker poles, particularly among racing sailors and those looking for the best possible performance. Some advantages of using carbon fiber for your spinnaker pole include:

• Lightweight : Carbon fiber poles are significantly lighter than aluminum poles, which can improve your boat’s performance and handling.
• Stiff : Carbon fiber poles are extremely stiff, which can help to reduce flex and improve performance.
• Strong : Carbon fiber poles are incredibly strong, making them a durable and long-lasting option.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using carbon fiber for your spinnaker pole:

• Expensive : Carbon fiber is generally more expensive than aluminum, which can make it a less budget-friendly option for some sailors.
• Difficult to Fabricate : Carbon fiber can be more challenging to work with than aluminum, which may make it less suitable for DIY projects.

Designing and Building Your Custom Spinnaker Pole

Once you have chosen the right material for your spinnaker pole, it’s time to start designing and building your custom pole. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:

• Measure Your Boat : Before you can design your spinnaker pole, you’ll need to take some measurements of your boat. You’ll need to know the distance from the mast to the bow, as well as the height of your mast above the deck.
• Determine the Length of Your Spinnaker Pole : The length of your spinnaker pole will depend on the size of your boat and the type of spinnaker sail you plan to use. As a general rule, your spinnaker pole should be approximately equal to the distance from the mast to the bow.
• Design Your Spinnaker Pole : Using your measurements and the chosen material, design your spinnaker pole. Be sure to include attachment points for the mast and the spinnaker sail, as well as any necessary hardware (such as end fittings, pole chocks, and pole lifts).
• Fabricate Your Spinnaker Pole : Once you have designed your spinnaker pole, it’s time to start building. If you’re using aluminum, you can cut and shape the pole using standard metalworking tools. If you’re using carbon fiber, you may need to work with a professional fabricator to create your custom pole.
• Assemble Your Spinnaker Pole : After your spinnaker pole has been fabricated, you’ll need to assemble it with the necessary hardware and fittings. Be sure to follow any manufacturer’s instructions for proper assembly and installation.

Installing and Using Your New Spinnaker Pole

Once your custom spinnaker pole is complete, it’s time to install it on your boat and start using it to improve your downwind sailing performance. Here are some tips for installing and using your new spinnaker pole:

• Install the Mast Attachment : Attach the inboard end of your spinnaker pole to the mast using the appropriate hardware (such as a pole chock or mast track). Be sure to follow any manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.
• Install the Spinnaker Sail Attachment : Attach the outboard end of your spinnaker pole to the clew of your spinnaker sail using the appropriate hardware (such as a snap shackle or piston hank). Be sure to follow any manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.
• Install the Pole Lift : Attach a pole lift (a line that runs from the top of your mast to the middle of your spinnaker pole) to help support the weight of the pole and keep it level when in use.
• Practice Using Your Spinnaker Pole : Before you head out on the water, practice using your new spinnaker pole in a controlled environment. This will help you become familiar with the process of setting and dousing your spinnaker sail, as well as handling your spinnaker pole safely and efficiently.

With your custom spinnaker pole installed and ready to use, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying faster and more efficient downwind sailing. Remember to always practice safe sailing techniques and to regularly inspect and maintain your spinnaker pole to ensure its continued performance and longevity.

We hope this article has provided you with valuable information on building a custom spinnaker pole for your sailing vessel. As always, we aim to inspire, educate, and support our readers as they embark on their own sailing adventures. Fair winds and following seas!

~ Back to Spars Main Page ~

× You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

We Ship Worldwide! | FREE SHIPPING! for US Continental orders over $99. Click for details.

Shopping Cart

Your cart is currently empty..

FREE SHIPPING! for US Continental orders over $99 click for details

Spinnaker Poles

We at MAURIPRO Sailing understand how vital it is to keep the right spinnaker shape during your downwind leg. We carry an assortment of custom aluminum and carbon spinnaker poles for all sailboats as well as premade one-design spinnaker poles. Spinnaker Poles are priced based on the diameter of the pole and can be made to any exact finished length that is specified. On most boats, the ideal spinnaker pole finished length is equal to the boat's J dimension, the distance from the mast to the bow. Technical assistance is available to help you find the right Spinnaker Pole for your symmetrical spinnaker.

The MAURIPRO Sailing store offers a variety of Spinnaker Poles that will make your boating experience unforgettable!

MAURIPRO Sailing, your direct access to Spinnaker Poles and all your other sailing and boating needs.

Copyright © 2024 MAURIPRO Sailing LLC.

• Cruising Compass Media Advertising & Rates
• Blue Water Sailing
• Multihulls Today
• Subscribe Today

Using Spinnaker Poles, Whisker Poles and Sprits to Enhance Sailing Fun and Performance

Previously published in BWS.

Downwind sailing is the course of choice for most cruisers and to enjoy this favored angle you really need downwind sails and the right poles for setting those sails. Your genoa is the basic downwind sail and by running wing and wing, you can really make miles with the wind dead astern.

For the most secure and easy-to-use setup, rig a topping lift for the pole on your mast and foreguys that run from the pole, through blocks at the bow and aft to the cockpit so they can be trimmed easily as you reef the “wung out” genoa in a rising breeze. Some skippers also rig after guys so the pole is controlled in three dimensions and completely secure.

Carbon fiber spinnaker poles, like those from Selden, Forespar, Hall Spars and others, add a lot to a cruising boat because they are so light that any crewmember can handle them. When you are jibing the genoa downwind, you have to move the pole to the new windward side so lightness and ease of handling are important.  Heavy aluminum poles, particularly on boats over 45 feet or so, can be awkward and hard to handle and can cause deck damage as you hump them from side to side.

With a well set up spinnaker pole, you can fly a traditional symmetrical spinnaker, in a spinnaker sock, with ease. And, there is nothing like running fast and true under a well set chute. You are making miles and having fun.

To get the best from your asymmetrical chute, it is best to tack the sail down to a bow sprit that is deployed from the bow. Sprit boats like J/Boats have their sprits built into the hull. But, most other boats will require some kind of mountable and demountable sprit that integrates with the boat’s bow rollers.

Forespar came out with the Banana Sprit several years ago that fit neatly into an anchor roller and had a short bobstay that ran to a secure pad eye halfway down the bow.  It was a good idea and the sprits are still available from the company although they have not continued the line.

Selden has a neat bow sprit solution that has become very popular with cruisers. Using either a short carbon or aluminum pole, the system anchors the aft end of the pole in a snap fitting mounted on the foredeck. The pole then runs through an eye mounted on the bow roller that holds it in place. The sprit tubes and fitting are robust enough so no bob stay is required on most boats. (Check with your rigger for boats over 45 feet or so).

At the outboard end of the sprit, the sail attaches to a short pennant or downhaul that can be adjusted to control luff tension. If you are flying a code zero or an asymmetrical sail on a top-down furler, you can hoist the sail before heading out sailing and leave it rolled up until you are running off, essentially creating a useful double-headsail rig. At the end of the day, you simply lower the rolled up sail, bag it and stow it and then unsnap the sprit and stow it away as well.

Administrator

You might also like.

Problems with Paint Application Q & A

Dinghy Security

Winterizing Your Engine

Read the Summer-Fall Edition of Blue Water Sailing

Read the fall 2023 edition of blue water sailing, recent posts.

• Introducing the New Twin-Keel, Deck Saloon Sirius 40DS

• Survey of the Week

Please Visit Our Sponsor’s Webpages

• Media Advertising & Rates

Published by Blue Water Sailing Media, a division of Day Communications, Inc., Middletown, RI

Publisher & Editor: George Day

Blue Water Sailing Media publishes Blue Water Sailing magazine, Multihulls Today and other titles.

Cruising Compass Advertising Sales:

George Day, Newport, RI [email protected] 401-847-7612

• She Asked, How Hard Can It Be? Boys Do It
• New 2024 Bavaria C50 Tour with Yacht Broker Ian Van Tuyl

© 2014 Blue Water Media. All rights reserved. | Admin

Please verify you are a human

Access to this page has been denied because we believe you are using automation tools to browse the website.

This may happen as a result of the following:

• Javascript is disabled or blocked by an extension (ad blockers for example)
• Your browser does not support cookies

Please make sure that Javascript and cookies are enabled on your browser and that you are not blocking them from loading.

Reference ID: 69b15450-e308-11ee-9437-0de0d3c543dd

Powered by PerimeterX , Inc.

• 949.858.8820

Shopping Cart

• MARELON ® ABYC Complete Valve Kits
• Whisker Pole Selection Guide
• MARELON Pro Series Valve Guide for OEMs

GENERAL SAILING

• Steering Control Arm

Boom Vangs / Yacht Rod

• Deck Light / Spreader Light
• Combination Deck / Steaming Light
• Light Guard
• Floating Man Overboard Strobe Light
• Racing Signal Flag Label
• Equipment & Usage Labels

Sail Protection / Anti-chafe

• Jib Rollers
• TURNBUCKLE COVERS
• Shackle Guards / Lifeline Rollers

Cleats, Chocks, Handles, Hinges

• Cleats & Line Chocks
• Transom Steps & Handles
• Hinges - Non-corroding

Poles & Accessories

Whisker poles & equipment.

• Downwind Pole Selection Guide
• Twist Lock Poles
• Tri-reacher Pole
• Aluminum Line Control Poles
• 50 / 50 Aluminum Carbon
• Carbon Fiber Line Control Poles
• Pole End Fittings & Collars
• Lock Repair Kits
• Sprits - Multi Hull Sprit Kit

Spinnaker Poles & Equipment

Spinnaker pole overview.

• Small Boat Spinnaker Pole Kits
• Aluminum Spinnaker Poles
• Carbon Fiber Spinnaker Poles
• Spinnaker Pole Order Form
• Reaching Struts
• Awning Poles
• End Fittings

Mast Pad Eyes, Cars & Track

• Mast Pad Eyes
• Track Stops

Pole Chocks

• Deck Mounted
• Stanchion Mounted
• Mast Mounted
• Adapting Collars
• Aluminum Tubing

Cabin Accessories

Boat care products.

• Tea Tree Power ® Anti-mildew
• Eco-Tank Pro™
• MareLube™ Lubricants
• ReFresh™
• Lanocote ® Anti-corrosion Lubricants & Coatings
• Equipment & Usage Labels
• Pure Water+™ Replacement Filters
• Sink Drains
• Floating MOB Marker Buoy Light
• Vented Loops/Replacement Vent Caps
• Bulkhead Fittings
• Valves for Sinks, Heads and Engine compartments

Booms & Leisure Furl

• Leisure Furl® Boom System

Cranes, Davits, Hoists

• Nova Lift™
• Nova Davit™
• Motor Mate™

Safety Equipment

• Man Overboard Poles & Accessories
• Lightning Master™ (Static Dissipater)
• Sta-plug ® Emergency Plug
• Sta-plug ® Mini™ Emergency Plug
• TRU-PLUG™
• Floating Man Overboard Strobe Light / Buoy Light
• Rail Mount Options

Tiller Extensions & Lock Box

• Fixed Length Ball & Golf Grip
• Carbon Fiber & Ocean Racer
• Tubing Clips
• Plumbing Systems - Marelon ®
• Replacement Parts
• Tea Tree Power ® Anti-Mildew
• ROLL STABILIZER / FLOPPER STOPPER
• Tea Tree Power ®
• Sta-Plug ® (New! Mini)
• Sta-Plug ® (Large)
• CLEATS & LINE CHOCKS
• TRANSOM STEPS & HANDLES
• HINGES -- NON-CORRODING
• DECK LIGHT / SPREADER LIGHT
• COMBINATION DECK / STEAMING LIGHT
• LIGHT GUARD
• FLOATING MAN OVERBOARD STROBE LIGHT
• QUIK Davit™
• RADAR MASTS
• PROP & BOTTOM
• PureWater+™ by forespar ®
• AWNING POLES
• REPLACEMENT PARTS
• MARELUBE™ EXTRA

• Marelon Summary
• New Marelon Products
• What Marelon ® Is
• Marelon ® On ABYC ISO
• Ball Valves
• Flange Mounting Seacocks
• Tank Vent / Deck Plug
• Flush Deck Drains
• Motor Well Drains
• Garboard Drains
• Utility Drains
• Engine Flush Out
• Hose Adapters / Tailpipes
• Clear View Hose Connectors
• Pro Series Seacocks
• Pro Series Remote Operated Valve Thru Hull
• Flowtech™ Performance Valves
• Flush Head / Threaded
• Mushroom Head / Threaded
• Mushroom Head / Hose Barb
• Scoop Strainers
• Vented Loops
• Water Strainers
• Y-valves & Connectors

• Leisure Furl ® Sailing Center
• Offshore™
• Coastal™
• Maintenance
• Manuals & Tech Bulletins
• Testimonials

• Contacting Customer Service
• Product Policies
• Shipping, Returns & Exchange Policy
• Conditions Of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Warranty Information
• Dealer Support
• Carbon Fiber Spinnaker Pole Order Form
• Aluminum Spinnaker Pole Order Form
• Video How To's
• Tech Tips How To's
• Install & Maintenance How To's
• Diagram How To's
• Featured Products
• Boat Show Schedule
• Leisure Furl ® Sailing Center
• Newsletter Archive
• Product Catalog
• Product Brochures
• Helpful Boating Resources

• Shipping, Returns & Exchange Policy
• International Ordering & Shipping Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Press Releases
• Team Photos
• What Customers Say
• International Agents

if (document.cookie.match(/wholesale=[a-zA-z0-9]+/)) {document.write(' ')}

Enter Your Email Address to Get our eNewsletter

• Subscriber Only Specials
• Tech Tips From the Pros
• How-To Videos
• Early Notice On Promotions
• New Products
• Dealer Locator

Forespar Products Corp. 22322 Gilberto Rancho, Santa Margarita, CA 92688, 949.858.8820

Website Created by:  Digital Design Solutions

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

• My Wish List
• Compare Products
• Create an Account

INTRODUCING RONSTAN ORBIT WINCHES™

• You're currently reading page 1
• Pole Ends - Small Boat 6 items
• Pole Ends - Keelboat 8 items
• Pole Rings 3 items
• Pole Storage & Reaching Hooks 3 items
• Brace 'Doughnut' 5 items
• Remove This Item

Need some advice?

Official Sponsors of the Australian Sailing Team

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

• What to do in Moscow City, if you’re not mega-rich
• Moscow after dusk: 10 places to drink, dance, and groove
• 5 things you must do in Moscow in 2018 between football matches (or without them)
• Sandwiched between Moscow and St. Petersburg: How to spend a perfect weekend in Tver 
• 24 or 48 hours in Moscow: Where to go and what to do in 2019

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.

Moscow Boat Tour

• Page active

Description

See all the gems of historical and cultural center of the capital in short time and without traffic jams or tiresome walking.

Depending on the itinerary and duration of the Moscow River boat trip, the tour can be 3 or 5 hours.

Highlights of the tour

• St Basil’s Cathedral;
• Stalin skyscraper on Kotelnicheskaya (Tinkers) embankment;
• The Kremlin;
• “House on the Embankment” Stalin skyscraper;
• Monument to Peter I;
• The Central House of Artists;
• Christ the Savior Cathedral;
• Gorky Park;
• Moscow State University;
• Russian Academy of Sciences;
• Luzhniki stadium;
• Novodevichy Monastery;
• Kiev railway station;
• Europe Square;
• Moscow City Hall;
• Government House;
• Expocentre Exhibition Complex;
• and other famous sights.

You will learn about the different epochs of the city from the foundation in 1147 till Soviet times of 20 th  century.

Moscow River

Moskva river has the form of a snake and is the main waterway of Moscow, consisting of a cascade of reservoirs. Within the city, Moskva river is 80 km long, 120 m - 200 m wide and up to 14 m deep. The narrowest part of the river is the Kremlin area in the city center, and the most extensive is around the Luzhniki Stadium in the south. 

Bridges in Moscow

Undoubtedly, bridges and embankments are among the most scenic spots and main attractions of Moscow. Plus, they are so romantic.

• Bolshoy Kamenny Bridge –  Great Stone Bridge –  is the main bridge of Moscow . The first stone bridge was constructed here in the 17th century.
• Patriarshy Bridge  is one of the youngest pedestrian bridges, built in 2004. The bridge connects the iconic Christ the Saviour Cathedral with funky Bersenevskaya embankment, extremely popular place among locals for its trendy art galleries, cafes and panoramic views. Patriarshy Bridge used to be a shooting location for ex-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's New Year speech to the nation.
• Borodinsky Bridge,  erected in honor of the 100th anniversary of the glorious victory in the Battle of Borodino (which every Russian kid knows about), a fierce legendary battle during the Russo-French war of 1812.
• Bagration Bridge  one of the  pedestrian bridges with most picturesque views of the Moskva River with its numerous upper-level observation platforms. The bridge was erected to celebrate the 850th anniversary of Moscow city in 1997.
• Krymsky Bridge  used to be in Top 5 Europe’s longest bridges some 100 years ago. The bridge got its name after the ancient Krymsky ford which Crimean Tartars used to invade Moscow in the 16 th  century.

Embankments of Moscow

Moscow river boats 37 embankments, the most popular being Kremlevskaya, Sofiyskaya, Pushkinskaya, Vorobyovskaya and Kolomenskaya.

You can get the most spectacular views of the Kremlin from  Kremlevskaya and Sofiyskaya embankments.

• Pushkinkaya embankment  is the most romantic in Moscow. It meanders along Gorky Park and Neskuchnyi garden and is rich for all kinds of entertainment as well as cozy nooks, including Olivkovy beach, the famous Zeleny theater as well as a pier for river cruisers.
• Vorobyevskaya embankment  is part of Sparrow Hills nature reserve. This place opens a beautiful panorama of the river and city from the observation deck and is considered to be the place for taking serious decisions in life.
• Embankment in Kolomenskoye  Museum-Reserve has a special charm due to its peculiar geographical relief. The boat trip around Kolomenskoye would be the most peaceful in your life.
• Taras Shevchenko embankment  is popular among photographers for its modern Moscow City skyscrapers. Highly recommended for your night boat trip.
• Embankments of Moscow are the pride of the capital. A distinctive feature of each of the promenades is its architecture and beautiful views. In addition, almost all the embankments of Moscow have a rich history and a lot of notable buildings.

Different epochs

Taking a walk along the Moskva River by boat, you will witness the architecture of Moscow from different eras and styles. Archaeological studies indicate that already in the XI century there stood a fortified settlement on Borovitsky hill, which is now called the Kremlin. Little fortress could not accommodate all the residents of the rapidly growing city, and the Grand Duke ordered the construction of a new Kremlin, larger than the former.

Boat trip around Kolomenskoe Park

Moscow river boat trip starts from the pier Klenovy (Maple) Boulevard and provides reat views of Nicholas Perervinsky monastery.

Nicholas Perervinsky monastery was founded at the time of the Battle of Kulikov (1380). The monastery, got its name from the surrounding area – “Pererva”, which can be translated like “tear off” and because of the location –  here it abruptly changed its course, turning to Kolomna, standing on the opposite bank.

Nowadays Kolomenskoye is State Art, Historical, Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve, which doors are open to everyone who wants to get in touch with the ancient history of Russia.

Take a break from the big city hustle in the shady parks and gardens of the Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve. Don’t miss a wonderful Church of the Ascension and Tsar Alexey’s Palace in Kolomenskoye!

Monasteries and temples

• Novospassky Monastery
• Founded in the 13th century on the site where now is located the Danilovsky monastery. After a few decades, in 1330, Ivan Kalita moved the monastery onto the Borovitskii hill of the Kremlin. However, in the 15th century, Spassky Monastery again moved, this time to a more spacious place on Krasnoholmskaya waterfront.
• Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom
• Erected in the middle of the XVIII century in baroque style. The building survived after the 1812 fire, but the utensils were destoyed. Parishioners collected donations and restored the temple on their own. In Soviet times, it was closed and re-opened only in 1992.
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• The church was originally erected in honor of the victory over Napoleon and was being under construction for long 44 years. Notoriously demolished in 1937 to be a giant swimming pool under open sky. The current building was constructed in 1990s. It is the tallest and one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
• The temple was built in 1679-82, during the reign of Tsar Fedor Alekseevich, in late Muscovite Baroque style and can be characterized as bonfire temple. Each gable is a symbol of a heavenly fire.
• Novodevichy Convent
• The most famous concent and monastery in Moscow, presumably founded in 1524. Novodevichy’s status has always been high among other monasteries, it was in this monastery where the women of the royal blood, the wives of Tsars and local rulers of Moscow were kept in prison as nuns.
• St. Andrew’s church  (male acts as Compound Patriarch of Moscow)
• St. Andrew’s church stands right on the slopes of the Sparrow Hills, on the way down to the Moskva River, on the territory of the Nature Reserve “Sparrow Hills”. The monastery is small in size but is very cozy. It’s situated in a quiet courtyard surrounded by temples, fruit trees and flowers.

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow river cruise.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review