In most American whalemen the mast-heads are manned almost simultaneously with the vessel’s leaving her port; even though she may have fifteen thousand miles, and more, to sail ere reaching her proper cruising ground.
puhekieltä To send to the masthead as a punishment.
(rfquotek)
2009, Gregory Fremont-Barnes, Nelsons Officers and Midshipmen'' (page 30)
When the ship happened to be in a warm climate, mastheading constituted a fairly mild punishment; indeed, many regarded it as rather a relief from duty. But in inclement weather the experience was most unpleasant.