Exactly the same as Phil
That's the way I do it. I use a sponge under the mast at each end. I attach one end to the bow pulpit rail, and the other end to the stern rail with a couple of bungee cords. In between, I use a dock fender on top of the pop-top. That dock fender is also used as a pivot point for the mast. Instead of having someone lift the mast up, with the dock fender positioned near the cabin top edge, I push the mast base down and slip the bolt through. Works for me! P.S. I forgot to mention: My boat came with a single pole with a roller in which the mast sat. That pole could be inserted into a fixture attached to the rear of the cockpit. I don't know if that is the original stand, but if it is, it sorely lacks technical design. Because of the length of the pole, and the weight on which it holds, the pole's fixture isn't strong enough to not fall over and elongate the screw holes. That's what happened to my support. Eventually, I'll use a larger piece of aluminum plate to strengthen the pole support. In the mean time, I'll just go with attaching the mast to the rails.
