Sailboat poles, also known as MASTS (5 letters), SPARS (5 letters) and sprits (6 letters), are essential components of sailboats. MASTS are vertical poles that support the sails and provide stability to the boat. SPARS are horizontal poles that help to spread out the sails and provide additional support. Sprits are diagonal poles that help to hold the sails in place. All three components are necessary for a sailboat to function properly.