The adoption of the yawl rig configuration around 1700 introduced a small mizzen sail located aft of the rudder, which provided improved balance and handling for cruising yachts. This design allowed for better performance in varying wind conditions and became popular among sailors seeking both speed and stability. The yawl rig remains a significant development in sailing technology, influencing yacht design for centuries.

The adoption of the yawl rig configuration around 1700 became popular for pleasure sailing, influencing gentlemanly yachting poetry. Poets celebrated the freedom of the seas and the romantic allure of sailing in their verses, reflecting the leisure pursuits of the era.