The mast(s).
yes they do because animals are dumb creatures and walk right up to the boat
I believe you are referring to the shrouds and the stays that are attached to the mast(s) for stability. See the related link below:
A boat can sail into the wind by sailing backwards and forwards (tacking) at an angle to the wind and so making her way up.
A heal boat
They suck it up and it stays there
When approaching a sailing vessel head on, it is up to the motorboat to yield. The motorboat operator should swing wide as early as possible to stay well clear of the sailing vessel.
The Mast
the masts
A sailing boat can not sail directly upwind, sail at about 45 degrees to the wind and tack (turn the boat through the wind) to the other side of the wind and continue in this zig-zag manner up wind.
Ah, the beautiful stays on a sailboat! They are like the supportive arms of a friend, holding up the mast so it can catch the wind and carry you on your journey. Just like how we all need support sometimes, the stays keep the mast strong and steady as you sail through the waves of life. Remember, it's okay to rely on others for support, just like the stays rely on the mast to guide the boat safely to its destination.
A grinder is a person whose job on a boat is to use the winches to pull in, let out, haul up or bring down sails. It is the most physically demanding job on a yacht.