Robands or Robans
Sea Terms
Small pieces of Manilla or spun yarn used to secure the luff of a fore-and-aft sail to the mast hoops or stay-hanks, and the head of a square-sail to its yard. Also to secure the head of a fore-and-aft sail to a gaff fitted with a jack stay. Manilla spun yarn is preferable, as it is not tarred and will not stain the sail.