A ketch is a two-masted sailboat with a taller forward mainmast and a shorter rear mizzen mast, positioned forward of the rudder post. Favored for long-distance cruising, the rig offers superior balance and divides the total sail area into smaller, manageable sails, allowing a smaller crew to handle larger vessels.

Key Characteristics:
Two Masts: Mainmast (forward) and mizzen mast (aft).

Mizzen Position: The smaller mast sits in front of the rudder post, distinguishing it from a yawl (behind the rudder post).

Sail Plan: Typically uses a mainsail, a headsail (jib or genoa), and a mizzen sail.

Advantages:
Versatility: Multiple sail combinations, including adding a mizzen staysail, make them suitable for various wind conditions.

Manageability: Shorter masts and smaller individual sails make handling easier.

Stability: The mizzen sail improves balance and steering stability, especially in heavy weather.