Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:07:58-2:08:20

Could Edgar-class cruisers still sail under canvas?

Their masts made some wind-powered movement conceivable, but sails were not a dependable capability for the Edgar class.

Edgar Class CruisersProtected CruisersSail PropulsionSteam Propulsion
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

Could Edgar-class cruisers still sail using wind and canvas?

Short answer

Possibly, but their masts were poorly suited to effective sailing and the capability should not be relied upon.

Notes

Wind-powered movement was technically possible for the Edgar class but too uncertain to support an operation. Their masts were poorly suited to carrying an effective sailing rig, limiting the practical value of wind power. Steam remained the dependable means of propulsion. Some smaller contemporary ships may have had a better chance of using sail as an auxiliary.