The boats built in the 20th century only had a mizzen sail, which was used to help steady the boat when its nets were out. The main function of the mast was now as a crane for lifting the catch ashore.

What is the mast for on a trawler boat?

Some boats even have folding masts as a factory original item like Grand Banks trawlers while others may not. Some power boats have a mast to support a boom and winch to handle launching and recovery of a dinghy.

Why do motor boats have masts?

Its purposes include carrying sails, spars, and derricks, and giving necessary height to a navigation light, look-out position, signal yard, control position, radio aerial or signal lamp.