Outrigger - Definition and Overview

In a canoe or bangca, an outrigger is a thin, long, solid, hull used to stabilise an inherently unstable main hull. The outrigger is positioned rigidly and parallel to the main hull so that the main hull is less likely to capsize. If only one outrigger is used on a vessel, its weight reduces the tendency to capsize in one direction and its buoyancy reduces the tendency in the other direction.

In a rowing boat or galley, an outrigger (or just rigger) is a triangular metal frame that holds the oarlock (into which the oar is slotted) away from the gunwale to optimize leverage.

A rigger was originally a person who attended to the rigging of a sailing ship: now also used in aircraft and parachute terms.