Bare Poles Meaning in Sailing

Bare poles refers to a boat sailing with no sails raised during a storm. This extreme measure reduces the surface area that the wind can push against. The boat moves forward using only the force of the wind on the mast. A captain decides to go under bare poles when the wind becomes dangerously strong. This tactic helps the crew maintain control and prevents the boat from tipping over. The vessel usually travels downwind to stay stable in the large crashing ocean waves. This is a survival technique used only in the most severe weather conditions at sea. Safety remains the top priority when a crew chooses to lower all the sails.