Learn the Lingo
Nautical Terms
A
Abaft ------------------------ Toward the stern, to the rear of the vessel.
Abandon Ship ------------- A verbal order to leave the vessel immediately, given by the master. When all else has failed and the destruction of the vessel is imminent.
Abeam ---------------------- On the beam, a relative bearing at right angles to the ship's keel.
About ----------------------- To Come about is to change the course of a vessel by tacking.
Above board ---------------- On or above the deck where you can be seen.
Absolute bearing ---------- The bearing of an vessel in relation to north,weather it be magnetic north or geographical north.
Abreast --------------------- When two vessels are side by side and are facing the same way.
Adrift ----------------------- When vessel is not under control,anchored to the seabed or moored and therefore moves with the wind and current.
Aft --------------------------- Towards the stern of a vessel, the section behind the vessel's midship area.
Aground -------------------- When a vessel is resting on or touching the ground or bottom.
Ahoy ------------------------- A cry to hail a boat or a ship.
Aids to Navigation --------- (ATON) Any device external to a vessel specifically used to assist navigators in determining their position or safe course, or to warn them of dangers or obstructions to navigation.
see (Markers & Buoys)
Alee ------------------------- On the lee side of a ship. Opposite side from which the wind is blowing.
Aloft ------------------------- To be in the ship's rigging high above the deck.
Amidships ------------------ The middle section of a vessel, also bring the helm to amidships, rudder is centerline with the vessel.
Anchor ---------------------- A hook like device designed to secure a vessel to the ground below the water.
see(Anchors Types)
Anchor light ---------------- A 360° white light displayed when vessel is at anchor. Typically on the masthead.
Anchorage ------------------ A area designated for anchorage in a port or harbor, any suitable area outside the channel.
Anchor aweigh ------------- Verbal response to the anchor clearing the bottom when being hauled up.
Apparent wind ------------- The combination of the true wind and the headwind caused by the boat's forward motion. For example, it causes a light side wind to appear to come from well ahead of the beam.
Arc of visibility ------------- The portion of the horizon over which a lighted aid to navigation is visible from seaward.
Ashore ---------------------- To move towards the shore, the act of being on shore or land.
Astarboard ----------------- Toward the starboard side of the vessel.
B
Backstays ------------------- Cables used to support the mast. Running from the stern to the masthead.
Baggywrinkle -------------- To Soft material on cables used to prevent chafing of the sails.
Bailer ------------------------ A bucket type device or hand pump used to remove water from the boat.
Bank ------------------------ To A large area of the seafloor that is elevated.
Bar -------------------------- Large mass of sand or earth, formed by the surge of the sea. They are mostly found at the entrances of great rivers or havens, and often render navigation extremely dangerous.
Batten ----------------------- A thin stiff strip used in the sails to increase sail area.
Batten down --------------- A term used to prepare a vessel for foul weather" batten down the hatches."
Beaching -------------------- The act of purposely sailing a vessel aground.
Beam ------------------------ The widest part of a vessel from starboard to port.
Bear away ------------------ The act of steering a vessel away from the wind.
Bear up --------------------- To turn the vessel into the wind.
Bearing --------------------- The horizontal direction of a line of sight between two objects on the surface of the earth.
The direction is measured in degrees of the compass. " Bearing 248 ° "
Beating or beat to ---------- To bring the vessel into the wind as close as possible for attaining an upwind direction.
Beaufort scale -------------- A visual observance of the effects of wind. See ( The Beaufort Scale )
Becalm ---------------------- The act of cutting off the wind to a vessel, either by land or by proximity of another vessel.
Belay ------------------------ To make fast a line by cleat or belay pin or tying off, to halt a current activity or countermand a previous order.
Bell -------------------------- The type of buoy that has a bell and sounds by wave action.
Below decks ---------------- Anywhere below the weather deck.
Bend ------------------------ To join to lines together using any type of knot.
Berth or mooring ---------- Pertaining to a place where a boat my tie up.
Berth ----------------------- Berth is a bed aboard ship. Sleeping accommodations.
Bight ------------------------ The part of a line between the standing part and the knot.
Bilge ------------------------ The bilge is the compartment at the bottom of the boat, beneath the waterline where water collects to be pumped out at a later time.
Bilge keels ------------------ Twin keels on a vessel, one on each side of the hull at angles. Used to hold the boat upright when in dry dock or at low tide with use of the skeg.
Bimini top ------------------ A weather and sun shade built on a metal frame, usually over the cockpit.
Binnacle -------------------- The stand on which the vessels compass is mounted.
Bitt -------------------------- A post or pair of posts mounted on a vessel for tying off lines.
Bitter end ------------------- The last part of a rope or cable.
Block ------------------------ A pulley.
Boat hook ------------------- The short length of pole with a hook on one end. Mainly used to retrieve a line or something in the water.
Bolt rope -------------------- The rope that sewn into the edges of a sail for reinforcement.
Booby hatch ---------------- A sliding hatch or deck cover.
Boom ------------------------ A spar used to hold the foot of a fore and aft sail taunt. Fully or partially extended.
Boom vang ----------------- An apparatus ( block and tackle/metal piston) attach to the mainsail boom. It's used to apply downward pressure to help control of the mainsail shape and to help prevent leech twist.
Boot top -------------------- More commonly called boot stripe or boot line is used to indicate the water on a vessel.
Bow ------------------------- The front or forward part of a ship.
Bow line -------------------- A line leading from the front of the vessel used when docking.
Bowline --------------------- The most used knot in sailing. It forms a temporary loop at the end of the line that is strong in holding power and is easily removed.
Bowsprite ------------------- A spar projecting from the bow of a vessel used primarily for the mainstay and/ or anchor.
Boxing the compass ------- The state of knowing all 32 to points on a compass and being able to recite them in order, starting with north and continuing clockwise. Also refers to wind that is continually shifting.
Brightwork ----------------- Refers to the boats polished metals, such as bronze,brass and stainless steel.
This term also includes the boats varnished woodwork.
Broaching ------------------ When a vessel loses it's motion due to wind or waves and is forced into a sharp turn.
Broad ----------------------- Wide in appearance from the vantage point of a lookout or other person viewing activity in - the area of a vessel.Another ship off the starboard bow with her side facing the viewer's ship could be described as broad on the starboard bow.
Bulkhead ------------------- An interior wall of a vessel.
Bulwark or bulward ------- The raised part of the hull that extends above the weather deck.
Buoy ------------------------ A float anchored in a specific location of the water as to mark a hazard, shoal or navigation. And for Mooring.
Burgee ---------------------- The Burgee ( a small triangle flag ) signifies membership to a certain yacht club.
C
Cabin ----------------------- Refers to a interior compartment used by crew or passengers.
C0mpanion way ----------- The main hatch and ladder leading below deck.
Capsize---------------------- The When a boat turns over in the water.
Capstan--------------------- The A large winch with a vertical axis.
Cast off---------------------- To let lo0se the lines of the vessel.
Celestial Navigation------- A method of navigating by use of a sextant, chronometer and celestial bodies. The stars, planets,sun and moon. See ()
Center of effort------------- The geometric center of force on the sails created by the wind.
Center of lateral resistance- The point of origin of net hydrodynamic resistance on the submerged structure of a boat, especially a sailboat. This is the pivot point about which the boat turns when unbalanced external forces are applied, similar to the center of gravity. On a balanced sailboat the center of effort should align vertically with the center of lateral resistance. If this is not the case the boat will be unbalanced and exhibit either lee helm or weather helm and will be difficult to control.
Center line ----------------- A imaginary line through the center of the vessel running from bow to stern.
Center board --------------- A board that pivots or drops down to form or extent the keel. Used to help stop sideways motion and produce forward momentum.
Chafing --------------------- Wear and tear on any sails, running rigging or lines due to rubbing.
Chafing gear --------------- Rope, cloth or tubing used to cover a vessels lines to keep from chafing.
Chain locker --------------- The Area in the forward part of the vessel, typically beneath the bow in front of the foremost collision bulkhead, that contains the anchor chain when the anchor is secured for sea.
Chart plotter --------------- An electronic instrument which places the position of the ship (from a GPS receiver) onto a digital nautical chart displayed on a monitor, thereby replacing all manual navigation functions. Chartplotters also display information collected from all shipboard electronic instruments and often directly control autopilots.
Chock ----------------------- A deck fitting in which dock or anchor lines are lead through to prevent chafing and help secure their location.
Chronometer -------------- An accurate timekeeping piece used for celestial navigation or to determine longitude.
Cleat------------------------- The An anvil shaped deck fitting in which lines are secured.
Coaming -------------------- The raised edge of a hatch, cockpit or skylight to help keep out water.
Cockpit --------------------- An opening in the deck with seating where most of the controls for running the vessel are.
Come about ---------------- To change the vessels direction through the wind.
Compass -------------------- A magnetic device which shows the vessels direction in relation to the earth's magnetic poles.
Communications tube ---- The A air filled tube used to communicate throughout the ship.
Constant bearing ---------- The angle of approach of a vessel that remains constant over time that may indicate a possible collision.
Course ---------------------- The direction in which the vessel is moving.
Cuddy ----------------------- A small shelter in a boat.
D
Daggerboard --------------- The a board used as a keel, which is pushed through the bottom of the boat.
Davit ------------------------ The A spar used as a hoist to lift a dinghy or tender to a larger vessel.
Dead ahead ---------------- To keep the vessel moving ahead on the exact course.
Dead astern ---------------- The Directly aft of the vessel.
Dead in the water --------- A term used when a vessel has lost of power and was underway.
Deck ------------------------ Topsides. The upper part of the vessels hull on which the crew works.
Dinghy ---------------------- The A small boat used as a tender to a larger vessel.
Displacement -------------- The amount of water displaced by a vessel, equal to the boats weight.
Dodger --------------------- A hood forward of a hatch or cockpit to protect the crew from wind and spray. Can be soft or hard.
Doldrums ------------------ The equatorial trough, with special reference to the light and variable nature of the winds.
Downwind ----------------- To point the vessel directly away from the wind, so as the wind is dead astern.
Dolphin -------------------- A structure consisting of a number of piles driven into the seabed or riverbed as a marker.
Downhaul ------------------ The A line or device which applies downward pressure on a sail or spar.
Draft ------------------------ The amount of the vessel under water, from the lowest point to the waterline.
drogue ---------------------- A device to slow a boat down in a storm so that it does not speed excessively down the slope of a wave and crash into the next one. It is generally constructed of heavy flexible material in the shape of a cone.
E
East ------------------------ One of the cardinal points on a compass. 90°.
Ebb -------------------------- The receding current of a body of water. Tide returning to the sea.
Even keel ------------------- The When the boat is sitting or sailing level in the water.
Eye splice ------------------- The loop in a line made slicing the line back into itself.
F
Fair -------------------------- The clean, smooth shape of a vessel, the curve or lines of the hull with no imperfections.
Fairway --------------------- The navigable channel in a harbor, port or offshore that is generally used as the course taken by vessels in the area, at sea there called shipping lanes.
Fathom --------------------- A nautical depth measurement that equals 6 feet.
Fender ---------------------- A cushion placed on the outside of the vessels hull to prevent damage when tied to a dock or another boat.
Fetch ------------------------ The length of area over water where waves are formed by the wind.
Fid -------------------------- A spike shaped tool used in the splicing of rope or wire.
Fisherman's reef ----------- A sailing tactic for handling winds too strong for the sail area hoisted when reefing the sails is not feasible or possible.The headsail is set normally while the mainsail is let out.
Flag hoist ------------------- A method of stringing signal flags together to convey a message.
Flare ------------------------ The A pyrotechnic device used as a signaling device.
Flemish -------------------- To coil a line that is not in use so that it lies flat on the deck.
Flotsam --------------------- The Debris or cargo that remains afloat after a shipwreck.
Fluke ------------------------ The spade shape part of the anchor which grabs on to the sea bottom.
Fly by night ---------------- A large sail used only for sailing downwind.
Foot ------------------------- The lower edge of the sail.
Footloose ------------------- The unsecured lower section (the Foot) of a sail.
Fore-and-Aft --------------- Running from bow to stern, in line with the keel.
Forefoot -------------------- The lower section of the stem of a vessel.
Forepeak ------------------- A compartment in the bow of a vessel. Mostly used as a chain, anchor or sail locker.
Forestay -------------------- A cable or line attached to the bow and running to the top of the mast for stability.
Foresail --------------------- The forward most sail on a vessel.
Founder -------------------- A word used to express that the vessel is sinking.
Freeboard ------------------ The area of the hull from the waterline to the top of the deck.
Full and by ----------------- The Sailing into the wind just off of close-hauled. keeping the sails full and room for error so as to not be taken aback.
Furl ------------------------- To roll up the sails.
G
Gaff ------------------------- The spar that holds the upper edge of a sail.
Galley ----------------------- The kitchen area of a boat.
Gangplank ----------------- The Also know as a brow, it is a movable bridge used to board or disembark passengers and crew from a vessel.
Gangplank ----------------- An opening in the bulwark of the ship to allow passengers to board or leave the ship.
Gaff rigged ----------------- A sailboat that uses gaff.
Gennaker ------------------- A lightweight sail designed to be use in intermediate angles.
Genoa ----------------------- A large jib that extents pass the mast towards the stern.
Gin-pole -------------------- A large spar that aides in the rising and lowering of the mast.
Give-way vessel ------------ The vessel that is to stand down to another vessel in crossing,overtaking or meeting.
Glass ------------------------ Another word for a marine barometer.
GPS ------------------------- The A electronic device that operates off satellite radio signals to provide accurate navigation.
Gooseneck ------------------ The swivel mechanism that attaches the boom to the mast and allows it to move freely.
Grab Rails ------------------ The hand holds mounted on top of vessel and on the interior for safety when moving about the boat.
Green-to-green ------------ When two vessels pass each other on the starboard sides while moving in opposite directions.
Great circle ----------------- The line that follows the shortest distance between two points on the globe.
Ground --------------------- The sea floor or bottom of the ocean.
Gunwale -------------------- The upper part of the hull that extends above deck.
Gybe ------------------------ The act of changing the boats direction through the wind.
H
Hail ------------------------- To call out, signal or radio a person or vessel to gain their attention.
Halyard ---------------------The line that raises and lowers the sails vertically.
Hank ----------------------- A fastener that clips onto the forestay wire to hold the sail in place.
Hardin in
To haul in the sails to make them tight.
Harden up ----------------- To turn the vessel towards the wind.
Hard over ------------------ To turn the steering surface (rudder) of a vessel to its extreme limitations,
such as "hard to starboard."
Hatch ----------------------- The opening the boat's deck which is covered with a watertight lid.
Haul out -------------------- The act of moving the boat out of the by way of a crane or lift.
Hauling wind -------------- The act of pointing the vessel in the direction of the wind.
Hawser pipe --------------- The shaft or hole in the side of a vessel's bow through which the anchor chain passes.
Hawser --------------------- Large rope used for mooring or towing a vessel.
Head ----------------------- A slang word for the bathroom.
Heading -------------------- The direction in which a vessel is moving, given by the points on a compass.
Heave ---------------------- The act of lifting aboard ship in a up and down motion.
Heave down --------------- To Turn a ship on its side for cleaning.
Heave to ------------------- Stopping a sailing vessel by lashing the helm in opposition to the sails. The vessel will gradually drift to leeward, the speed of the drift depending on the vessel's design.
Heel ------------------------ The inclination or canting of a vessel to one side or the other from the vertical as she maneuvers or The lean caused by the wind's force on the sails of a sailing vessel.
Helm ----------------------- The steering mechanism on a vessel used to control the ship's direction. It mat be a wheel or tiller.
Highfield lever ------------ A type of tension lever, usually for running backstays. Their use allows the leeward backstay to be completely slackened so that the boom can be let fully out.
Horn ------------------------ A loud audio device use to signal or warn another vessel, such as a boat horn or fog horn. The horn also refers to the radio.
Hull ------------------------- The body of a vessel consisting of a shell and the frame.
Hull speed ----------------- The maximum efficient speed of a displacement-hulled vessel.
I
Icing ------------------------ A dangerous condition in which ice builds up quickly on the vessel.
( ICW ) ---------------------- The Intracoastal Waterway is a designated route running 3,000 miles along the eastern seaboard and Gulf of Mexico using a connection of rivers, bays and canals, so that boaters may travel inside the coastlines without going out to sea.
Inflatable ------------------- A term used for a type of personal flotation device, dinghy or lift raft.
Inshore --------------------- Near or in sight of the shore, also referring to a wind that is blowing from the sea to the land.
Iron mike ------------------- Another name for autopilot.
J
Jacklines ------------------- The safety lines on a vessel running the length of the boats sides to attach a safety harness to.
Jacobs Ladder ------------- A rope ladder lowered off the deck of a vessel to allow pilots, crew or passengers to board.
Jetsam ---------------------- Debris ejected from a ship that sinks or washes ashore.
Jenny ----------------------- Another word used for a genoa.
Jetty ------------------------ A stone, ruble or concrete structure extending into the sea from the shore to protect the harbor, marina or port entrance.
Jib --------------------------- A triangle sail found at the front of the vessel.
Jibe ------------------------- The act of changing the vessels direction through the wind.
Jib boom ------------------- The spar used to extend the bowsprit.
Jib-ho ---------------------- A verbal alert to the crew or passengers before jibing a sailboat.
K
Kedge ----------------------- A technique for moving or turning a ship by using a relatively light anchor known as a kedge. The kedge anchor may be dropped while in motion to create a pivot and thus perform a sharp turn.
Keel ------------------------- The spade shaped protrusion underneath the sailboat that provides stability and lift.
Ketch ------------------------ A twin masted sailing vessel.
Killick ----------------------- A small anchor.
Kicking strap --------------- A rope, tackle or hydraulic ram running from the mast at or just above deck level to a point part-way along the boom of a yacht's mainsail or mizzen.
Knockdown ---------------- When a sudden gust of wind or rogue wave pushes the vessel over on it's side.
Knot ------------------------- (1) A nautical measure of speed, 6076 feet per hour. One nautical mile.
(2) A way of interweaving line to form a loop or way of fastening a line to make it secure to another line or object.
L
Ladder --------------------- What stairs are called aboard ship.
Lanyard -------------------- A rope used to tie something off.
Lateral system ------------- A system of aids to navigation in which characteristics of buoys and beacons indicate the sides of the channel or route relative to a conventional direction of buoyage
Launch --------------------- The a small boat use ferry guest and crew back and forth from the vessel. Also called a tender or dinghy.
Lay -------------------------- The twist of braid of a rope or wire.
Lazaret --------------------- A storage bin located towards the stern of a vessel.
Lazy jacks ------------------ A system of lines used to store the sails on the boom when lowered.
leach ------------------------ The aft edge section of the sail.
League ---------------------- The A nautical measurement of length equal to 3 nautical miles.
Lee -------------------------- Any side sheltered from the wind. The downwind side of a vessel.
Leeward -------------------- The opposite of windward, away from the wind, downwind from a designated point.
Leeway --------------------- The distance of a vessel's side slide to the leeward caused by wind or current.
Leg -------------------------- A segment of a voyage aboard ship or a section of a race.
Let go and haul ------------ An order indicating that the ship is now on the desired course relative to the wind and that the sails should be trimmed and set.
Lie to ----------------------- To have the ship's sail arranged so that they counteract each other.
Lifejacket ------------------ A personal flotation device designed to keep a person or animal afloat in water.
Lifeboat -------------------- A smaller boat used to escape and survive the sinking of a ship.
liferaft ---------------------- A rubber inflatable raft used to escape and survive the sinking of a ship.
Lift -------------------------- Concerning boats, lift is the force created by water flowing past the hull.
Line ------------------------- The rope or cordage that is used aboard a vessel.
List -------------------------- A vessel's angle of lean or tilt to one side.
Lizard ----------------------- A short piece of line used to hold another line in place.
Lolling ---------------------- The A uncontrollable list in a vessel caused by inadequate transverse stability.
Loose footed --------------- A mainsail that is not connected to a boom at the foot.
Lubber's line --------------- The vertical line in a compass that indicates the direction of the ship.
Luff ------------------------- The forward most section of a sail.
Luff and touch her -------- To bring the ships so close into the wind that the sails shake.
Luff perpendicular -------- The shortest distance between the clew and the luff.
Luff up --------------------- The act of sailing a ship more into the wind to ease the pressure of the sails.
Luffing --------------------- The flapping of the sails, due to not enough wind to fill them.
Lying ahull ----------------- The act of dousing all the wind from the sails, batten down the hatches and locking the helm to leeward allowing the vessel to drift.
M
Magnetic bearing --------- The absolute bearing using magnetic north.
Magnetic north ------------ The direction in which the needle on the compass points, the earth's magnetic north pole.
Main deck ------------------ The uppermost deck extending fore and aft, also called topside.
Mainmast ------------------ The largest of masts on a vessel.
Mainsheet ------------------ The primary control line for the mainsail.
Mainstay ------------------- The wire, ropes or rods that run fore and aft from top of the mast to the bow or stern for support of the mast.
Making way ---------------- The When a vessel is moving under its own power.
Man overboard ------------ The warning signal to indicate that someone has fallen overboard into the water.
Marlin spike --------------- A spike shaped tool used to splice rope or cable and to untie knots.
Mast ------------------------ The vertical spar or pole on a vessel that supports the sails and rigging.
Mast Stepping ------------- The act of standing or removing the mast up from the boat.
Masthead ------------------ The platform at the top of the mast that rigging, sails and lighting are attached.
Metacenter ---------------- The point of intersection between a vertical line through the center of buoyancy of a floating body such as a ship and a vertical line through the new center of buoyancy when the body is tilted, which must be above the center of gravity to ensure stability.
Metacentric height -------- The metacentric height (GM) is a measurement of the initial static stability of a floating body. It is calculated as the distance between the center of gravity of a ship and its metacenter. A larger GM implies greater initial stability against overturning.
Midships ------------------- The center area of a vessel between the bow and the stern. An order to the helmsman To bring the rudder in line with the keel. (dead ahead)
Mizzen ---------------------- The the smaller mast of two located on the stern of a vessel behind the mainmast.
Monkey's fist -------------- A knot on the end of a line as weight. Usually Used to throw a further distance in mooring.
Moorings ------------------- A anchor, dolphin, dock or other structure in which a vessel may be secured.
Mousing -------------------- The use of seizing wire to secure a shackle pin or other rigging.
N
Narrows -------------------- The smallest area of navigable waters.
Nautical -------------------- Of or relating to the sea, sailors and ships.
Nautical charts ------------ Nautical Charts are Bathymetric charts showing the contours of the seafloor in detail with water depths.They will also show such things as obstructions, shipwrecks, fish havens, restricted waters and ATON's.
Nautical mile -------------- The approximate measurement is 6067 feet. Equal to one minute of latitude.
North ----------------------- One of the cardinal points on a compass. 360°
Navigation ----------------- The art and science of determining waypoints on chart and safely governing the vessels movement to that destination. ( Point A to Point B )
Nun ------------------------- A cone shaped navigational buoy.
O
Offshore -------------------- A area of water off the shoreline.
Oilskins -------------------- Another name for rain gear.
On the hard ----------------A term used to indicate that the vessel is onshore, usually in a boatyard on stands for storage or work to be done on the vessel.
Outhaul -------------------- A line that controls the draft of a sail.
Outward bound ----------- To leave the safety of port, heading to open sea.
Over-canvassed ----------- A sailboat that has too much sail up for current wind conditions.
Over-reaching ------------- Holding a course too long when tacking.
Overbear ------------------- To sail downwind directly at another vessel, stealing the wind from it's sails.
Overboard ----------------- Over the side or out of the boat.
Overhead ------------------ The ceiling of any enclosed space below deck.
Overhaul ------------------- Hauling the buntline ropes over the sails to prevent them from chafing.
P
Painter --------------------- A small line attached to the bow of a dinghy.
Passageway ---------------- Another name for a hallway aboard ship.
Pendant -------------------- A length of wire or rope secured at one end to a mast or spar and having a block or other fitting at the lower end.
Pennant -------------------- A triangle shaped flag.
Pinnace -------------------- A small boat driven by sails or oars used as a tender.
Pintle ----------------------- A bolt or pin on which the boats rudder pivots.
Pitch ------------------------ The up and down pivoting motion ( bow to stern ) from the center of the vessel.
Point ----------------------- A unit of bearing equal to one thirty-second of a circle, 11.25 degrees.
Point up -------------------- To change direction of the vessel so that it points the bow more into the wind.
Points of sail --------------- The course of a sailing vessel in relation the the direction of the wind, divided into six points:
in irons (Point directly into the wind), close hauled (sailing as close as possible into the wind), close reach (between close haul and close reach),beam reach (sailing with the wind directly on the beam), Broad reach (wind behind the vessel at an angle), downwind ( sailing with the wind behind the vessel).
Port tack ------------------- To be sailing with the wind on the port side of the boat.
Porthole -------------------- A nautical term for a window aboard ship.
Preventer ------------------ A sail control line originating at some point on the boom and leading to a fixed point on the deck or rail, used to prevent or moderate the effects of an accidental Jibe.
Port ------------------------- The left side of the boat facing the bow.
Prow ------------------------ Another word for bow.
Q
Quartering Sea ------------ A sea moving toward the boats quarter.
Quay ------------------------ Another word for a wharf.
Quayside ------------------- An area alongside of a quay.
R
Radar ----------------------- (Radio Detection and Ranging) An electronic device used to detect targets as a reflected image in order to determine the targets distance and bearing.
Radar reflector ------------ A special fixture attach to the vessel to enhance its ability to detected by radar of other vessels.
Rake ------------------------ To incline from perpendicular; something so inclined is called raked or raking, such as a boom, mast,stern, ect.
Range light ---------------- Two lights to determine a range between the two points, often the center of the channel.
Ratlines -------------------- The horizontal lines tied between the shrouds to form a ladder to the top of the mast.
Reaching ------------------- Is to sail across the wind at 60 to 160 degrees off the wind.
Reaching sail -------------- A special sail used to sail a tighter reach.
Ready about --------------- A call made to ready crew before tacking.
Red-to-red ----------------- The action of two vessels passing each other port to port in opposite directions.
Reef -------------------------(1) To reduce sail.
(2) A call made to indicate rock or coral. Danger of grounding.
Reef-points ---------------- Short lengths of cord attached to the sail at eyelets along the reefing band, used to tie down excess sail when reefed.
Reef-bands ---------------- Long stripes of heavy canvass sewn along the sails for added strength.
Reef-tackles --------------- The ropes employed in the operation of reefing.
Reefer ---------------------- Another word for refrigerator aboard ship.
Reeve ----------------------- To thread a line through blocks. (past tense Rove)
Relative bearing ----------- A bearing relative to the direction of the ship: the clockwise angle between the ship's direction and an object.
Rigging --------------------- A system of masts and lines on a vessel.
Righting couple ----------- The force that restores the balance of a vessel once the heel has altered the relationship between her center of balance and her center of gravity.
Rigol ------------------------ The rim or eyebrow above a porthole or scuttle.
Rode ------------------------ The anchor line and/or chain.
Rogue wave ---------------- A large and extremely dangerous type of wave that can appear without warning.
Roll ------------------------- The side to side motion of a vessel usually caused by a wake or wave striking the side of the boat.
Rolling-tackle ------------- A system of pulleys used to secure the yardarm to the weather side of the mast in rough seas.
Rolling vang --------------- A second set of sprit-vangs played out forward to a rail near the bow.
Round to ------------------- The act of turning the bow into the wind.
Rowlock -------------------- A bracket used to secure and pivot oars for rowing.
Rove ------------------------ (see reeve)
Rudder --------------------- A vertical board or plate attach to the vessel, then to the helm that steers the boat.
Running rigging ---------- A The rigging used to manipulate the sails, spars, ect.
S
Safe harbor ---------------- A bay,port or harbor that provide protection from bad weather.
Safe haven ----------------- Includes natural harbors that provides safety from storms or attack.
Sagging ---------------------When the trough of a wave is midships, causing the hull to deflect so the ends of the keel are higher than the middle.
Sail -------------------------- A shaped piece of fabric material used to attach to the boat.Used to catch the wind and propel the vessel.
Sail loft --------------------- A large flat, smooth (usually covered) area where sail are sized, made or repaired.
Screecher ------------------ A sail that can be used as a upwind, reaching sail or a genoa.
Scudding ------------------- The act of a boat being pushed along by a violent storm.
Scuppers ------------------- Drain pipes in the ship's hull to drain water from the decks or cockpit.
Scuttle ---------------------- The act of sinking a vessel.
Scuttlebutt ----------------- A drinking fountain found aboard vessel. Also a slang term used for shipboard gossip.
Scuttling -------------------- The act of sinking a vessel by opening the seacocks or making a hole in the vessel's hull.
Sea anchor ----------------- A large bag or chute deployed overboard in order to stabilize the vessel in heavy seas. It's purpose is to keep the hull into the wind and perpendicular the the waves.
Sea state -------------------- A general condition of the surface of the water with respect to the wind, waves and swell.
Sea trail -------------------- A testing phase of a ship when taken to sea To determine her performance and sea worthiness.
Seacock -------------------- A valve in the hull of a vessel used to allow seawater in or out of the vessel. Some uses are engine coolant, saltwater faucets, toilets and sinks.
Serve ------------------------ To cover a rope with smaller line to protect it.
Sextant --------------------- A mechanical viewing device used to determine position by means of celestial navigation.
Shackle --------------------- A u-shaped iron, with a screw pin at the open end used to securing stays to sails.
Sheet ----------------------- A rope attach to the clew for controlling the settings of the sail.
Shoal ----------------------- A shallow body of water that is a navigational hazard.
Short stay ------------------ When the anchor line is in between taunt or completely slack.
Shorten --------------------- (1) reduce sails.
(2) take the slack out of ropes.
Shroud---------------------- The lines (rope or wire) that support the mast on the sides of the vessel.
Skeg ------------------------- A downward projection from the keel and in front of the rudder. It's purpose is to protect the rudder from damage.
Slack tide v----------------- The period of time between high and low tides where there is no tidal current produced.
Sonar ----------------------- (sound and ranging) Sound pulses used to determine water depth or underwater targets or obstacles.
Sounding ------------------- To measure the depth of the water. Done by swinging the lead or using sonar.
South ----------------------- One of the cardinal points on a compass. 180°
Spar ------------------------- A pole used to support rigging and sails.
Spindrift -------------------- A fine mist of water blown over the crest of the wave by strong winds.
Spinnaker ------------------ A very large sail off the bow when sailing downwind.
Spinnaker pole ------------ The spar used to control the spinnaker or other headsail.
Splice ----------------------- The act of unraveling the ends of a rope or wire and intertwining them together to form a continuous line.
Spreader ------------------- A spar on the mast to deflect the shrouds to better to support the mast.
Springs --------------------- Larger tides caused by the alignment of the moon and the sun.
Spurling pipe -------------- A pipe that runs to the chain locker, where the anchor chain comes onto the deck at the bow.
Stand-on ------------------- The act of a vessel holding its course and speed, usually between two vessels passing to minimize the risk of collision.
Standing part -------------- The section of rope that is taut at a cleat 0r block. Not the loose end.
Standing rigger ------------ The rigging used to support the mast and spars.
Starboard ------------------ The right side of the vessel facing forward.( towards the bow. )
Starboard tack ------------- To be sailing with the wind on the starboard side of the boat.
Stay ------------------------- A strong rope or wire attached to the masthead and running down to other rigging or the deck fore (forestay) and aft (backstay).
Stayfall --------------------- A wire rove through blocks, one on the stemhead and the other one on the forestay. Used to lower the mast.
Staysail --------------------- A sail whose luff is attached to a forestay.
Steerage -------------------- The act of steering a vessel, and/ or having the ability to steer.
Steerageway --------------- The minimum speed at which a vessel will answer the helm.
Stern ------------------------The aft or rear section of a vessel.
Sternway ------------------- A vessel moving in reverse.
Stopper knot --------------- A knot tied in a line to prevent it from passing through a hole.
Stow ------------------------ To store away cargo, tackle or personal effects.
Surge ----------------------- (1) A Vessel's transient motion in a fore and aft motion.
(2) to slacken a rope, so it slides up the capsun slowly.
S/V ------------------------- Short for Sailing Vessel.
Swigging ------------------- To take up the last bit of shack on a line such as a halyard, anchor line or dock line by taking a single turn around a cleat and alternatively heaving on the rope above and below the cleat while keeping tension on the tail.
Sweat ----------------------- A technique to finally tension a halyard, by pulling alternatively on the tail from a cleat and at right angles on the taut standing line.
T
Tack ------------------------ A leg of a route of a sailing vessel when tacking. Port tack or starboard tack.
Tacking --------------------- The act of making headway into the wind to reach a certain destination by alternating course port (port tack)than starboard (starboard tack).
Tail -------------------------- The loose end of a wire or rope that is attached to a cleat or wrench.
Taking the wind out of the sails - The act of stealing the wind from another vessel.
Thwart ---------------------- A board that reaches across a open boat used for seating.
Tiller ------------------------ A lever attach to the top of the rudder post used to steer smaller vessels.
Toe-rail--------------------- A long and low strip running along the outside edges of the deck, to help prevent one's foot from slipping off the deck.
Topping lift ---------------- A line that is apart of the rigging in which it is used to adjust the boom.
Topsail --------------------- A sail that fills in the section between the mast and the gaff, above the other sails.
Topsides -------------------- The part of the hull between the waterline and the deck.
Touch and go ---------------(1) The vessel touching the bottom, but not grounding.
(2) The vessel stopping a pier or dock to take on or let off crew or stores, but not tying up.
Travellers ------------------ A fitting thats slides on a rail or rod most commonly used for the inboard end of the mainsheet.
Trim ------------------------ To make small adjustments in the sails to maximize their efficiency.
True Bearing --------------- An Absolute bearing using true north.
True North ----------------- The geographical direction of the north pole.
Turn ------------------------ A Knot passing behind or around an object.
Turnbuckle ---------------- A tensioning device consisting of two bolts and a threaded casing used to tension the boats stay wires.
Turtling -------------------- A when a sailboat has capsized (upside down) and remains there.
U
Unassisted sailing -------- A solo voyage, with no intermediate ports or physical assistance from outside sources.
Underway ------------------A vessel that is moving through the water, either by wind or power.
Unreeve -------------------- The act of withdrawing a rope from the opening of a ship block or thimble.
V
Vang ------------------------ A shortened term for boom vang. A line or piston system attached to the boom to help
control the shape of the sails.
Vanishing angle ----------- The degree of angle at which a vessel heeled over can not return to a upright position.
Veer away ------------------ To let go of a line slowly.
Viol ------------------------- A large rope used to heave up the anchor.
Voyage --------------------- A long journey by ship.
W
Waft ------------------------ A calm movement of air.
Wake ----------------------- The trail of small waves or disturbance left behind a vessel as it moves through the water.
Warp ----------------------- A method of moving a vessel by line or cable that is fastened to a anchor or pier.
Waterline -------------------(1) A painted stripe on a vessel that indicates that the boat is safe above water.
(2) Where the water meets the vessels hull.
Waterway ------------------ A navigable body of water.
Way ------------------------- The movement of a vessel through the water.
Waypoint ------------------ A predetermined area or navigational coordinates set as a destination point.
Weather side -------------- The side of the vessel that is exposed to the wind.
Weatherly ------------------ A vessel that is easily sailed and maneuvered.
Weigh anchor ------------- To hoist the anchor.
West ------------------------ One of the cardinal points on a compass. 270°
Wetted area ---------------- The area of the hull that is or remains underwater.
Wheel ---------------------- A round device used to steer a boat, the helm.
Whipping ------------------ The wrapping of twine on the loose end of a rope to prevent unravelling.
Whitecaps ----------------- The white area of a wave that bubbles when pushed by the wind or obstructed by an underwater obstacle, such as shallow water or reef.
Whisker pole -------------- A spar used to hold open a large jib or genoa when sailing downwind.
Wide berth ----------------- To give large space between to vessels.
Wind-over-tide ------------Sea conditions with tidal current and the wind in opposite directions creating short, heavy seas.
Windbound ---------------- A condition where clocking winds holds the vessel in one particular station.
Windage ------------------- Net wind resistance on a vessel.
Windlass ------------------- A winch usually mounted on the bow, used to weigh anchor.
Windsail ------------------- A tube or canvas used to direct wind into the lower compartments of the vessel.
Windward ----------------- Any direction into the wind.
Y
Yawl ------------------------ A two masted vessel with the second mast behind the helm.
Yaw ------------------------- A pivoting motion from the center of a vessel (bow moves side to side ), to veer off course, like when running with a quarterly sea.To have the ship's sails arranged so as to counteract each other.
Abaft ------------------------ Toward the stern, to the rear of the vessel.
Abandon Ship ------------- A verbal order to leave the vessel immediately, given by the master. When all else has failed and the destruction of the vessel is imminent.
Abeam ---------------------- On the beam, a relative bearing at right angles to the ship's keel.
About ----------------------- To Come about is to change the course of a vessel by tacking.
Above board ---------------- On or above the deck where you can be seen.
Absolute bearing ---------- The bearing of an vessel in relation to north,weather it be magnetic north or geographical north.
Abreast --------------------- When two vessels are side by side and are facing the same way.
Adrift ----------------------- When vessel is not under control,anchored to the seabed or moored and therefore moves with the wind and current.
Aft --------------------------- Towards the stern of a vessel, the section behind the vessel's midship area.
Aground -------------------- When a vessel is resting on or touching the ground or bottom.
Ahoy ------------------------- A cry to hail a boat or a ship.
Aids to Navigation --------- (ATON) Any device external to a vessel specifically used to assist navigators in determining their position or safe course, or to warn them of dangers or obstructions to navigation.
see (Markers & Buoys)
Alee ------------------------- On the lee side of a ship. Opposite side from which the wind is blowing.
Aloft ------------------------- To be in the ship's rigging high above the deck.
Amidships ------------------ The middle section of a vessel, also bring the helm to amidships, rudder is centerline with the vessel.
Anchor ---------------------- A hook like device designed to secure a vessel to the ground below the water.
see(Anchors Types)
Anchor light ---------------- A 360° white light displayed when vessel is at anchor. Typically on the masthead.
Anchorage ------------------ A area designated for anchorage in a port or harbor, any suitable area outside the channel.
Anchor aweigh ------------- Verbal response to the anchor clearing the bottom when being hauled up.
Apparent wind ------------- The combination of the true wind and the headwind caused by the boat's forward motion. For example, it causes a light side wind to appear to come from well ahead of the beam.
Arc of visibility ------------- The portion of the horizon over which a lighted aid to navigation is visible from seaward.
Ashore ---------------------- To move towards the shore, the act of being on shore or land.
Astarboard ----------------- Toward the starboard side of the vessel.
B
Backstays ------------------- Cables used to support the mast. Running from the stern to the masthead.
Baggywrinkle -------------- To Soft material on cables used to prevent chafing of the sails.
Bailer ------------------------ A bucket type device or hand pump used to remove water from the boat.
Bank ------------------------ To A large area of the seafloor that is elevated.
Bar -------------------------- Large mass of sand or earth, formed by the surge of the sea. They are mostly found at the entrances of great rivers or havens, and often render navigation extremely dangerous.
Batten ----------------------- A thin stiff strip used in the sails to increase sail area.
Batten down --------------- A term used to prepare a vessel for foul weather" batten down the hatches."
Beaching -------------------- The act of purposely sailing a vessel aground.
Beam ------------------------ The widest part of a vessel from starboard to port.
Bear away ------------------ The act of steering a vessel away from the wind.
Bear up --------------------- To turn the vessel into the wind.
Bearing --------------------- The horizontal direction of a line of sight between two objects on the surface of the earth.
The direction is measured in degrees of the compass. " Bearing 248 ° "
Beating or beat to ---------- To bring the vessel into the wind as close as possible for attaining an upwind direction.
Beaufort scale -------------- A visual observance of the effects of wind. See ( The Beaufort Scale )
Becalm ---------------------- The act of cutting off the wind to a vessel, either by land or by proximity of another vessel.
Belay ------------------------ To make fast a line by cleat or belay pin or tying off, to halt a current activity or countermand a previous order.
Bell -------------------------- The type of buoy that has a bell and sounds by wave action.
Below decks ---------------- Anywhere below the weather deck.
Bend ------------------------ To join to lines together using any type of knot.
Berth or mooring ---------- Pertaining to a place where a boat my tie up.
Berth ----------------------- Berth is a bed aboard ship. Sleeping accommodations.
Bight ------------------------ The part of a line between the standing part and the knot.
Bilge ------------------------ The bilge is the compartment at the bottom of the boat, beneath the waterline where water collects to be pumped out at a later time.
Bilge keels ------------------ Twin keels on a vessel, one on each side of the hull at angles. Used to hold the boat upright when in dry dock or at low tide with use of the skeg.
Bimini top ------------------ A weather and sun shade built on a metal frame, usually over the cockpit.
Binnacle -------------------- The stand on which the vessels compass is mounted.
Bitt -------------------------- A post or pair of posts mounted on a vessel for tying off lines.
Bitter end ------------------- The last part of a rope or cable.
Block ------------------------ A pulley.
Boat hook ------------------- The short length of pole with a hook on one end. Mainly used to retrieve a line or something in the water.
Bolt rope -------------------- The rope that sewn into the edges of a sail for reinforcement.
Booby hatch ---------------- A sliding hatch or deck cover.
Boom ------------------------ A spar used to hold the foot of a fore and aft sail taunt. Fully or partially extended.
Boom vang ----------------- An apparatus ( block and tackle/metal piston) attach to the mainsail boom. It's used to apply downward pressure to help control of the mainsail shape and to help prevent leech twist.
Boot top -------------------- More commonly called boot stripe or boot line is used to indicate the water on a vessel.
Bow ------------------------- The front or forward part of a ship.
Bow line -------------------- A line leading from the front of the vessel used when docking.
Bowline --------------------- The most used knot in sailing. It forms a temporary loop at the end of the line that is strong in holding power and is easily removed.
Bowsprite ------------------- A spar projecting from the bow of a vessel used primarily for the mainstay and/ or anchor.
Boxing the compass ------- The state of knowing all 32 to points on a compass and being able to recite them in order, starting with north and continuing clockwise. Also refers to wind that is continually shifting.
Brightwork ----------------- Refers to the boats polished metals, such as bronze,brass and stainless steel.
This term also includes the boats varnished woodwork.
Broaching ------------------ When a vessel loses it's motion due to wind or waves and is forced into a sharp turn.
Broad ----------------------- Wide in appearance from the vantage point of a lookout or other person viewing activity in - the area of a vessel.Another ship off the starboard bow with her side facing the viewer's ship could be described as broad on the starboard bow.
Bulkhead ------------------- An interior wall of a vessel.
Bulwark or bulward ------- The raised part of the hull that extends above the weather deck.
Buoy ------------------------ A float anchored in a specific location of the water as to mark a hazard, shoal or navigation. And for Mooring.
Burgee ---------------------- The Burgee ( a small triangle flag ) signifies membership to a certain yacht club.
C
Cabin ----------------------- Refers to a interior compartment used by crew or passengers.
C0mpanion way ----------- The main hatch and ladder leading below deck.
Capsize---------------------- The When a boat turns over in the water.
Capstan--------------------- The A large winch with a vertical axis.
Cast off---------------------- To let lo0se the lines of the vessel.
Celestial Navigation------- A method of navigating by use of a sextant, chronometer and celestial bodies. The stars, planets,sun and moon. See ()
Center of effort------------- The geometric center of force on the sails created by the wind.
Center of lateral resistance- The point of origin of net hydrodynamic resistance on the submerged structure of a boat, especially a sailboat. This is the pivot point about which the boat turns when unbalanced external forces are applied, similar to the center of gravity. On a balanced sailboat the center of effort should align vertically with the center of lateral resistance. If this is not the case the boat will be unbalanced and exhibit either lee helm or weather helm and will be difficult to control.
Center line ----------------- A imaginary line through the center of the vessel running from bow to stern.
Center board --------------- A board that pivots or drops down to form or extent the keel. Used to help stop sideways motion and produce forward momentum.
Chafing --------------------- Wear and tear on any sails, running rigging or lines due to rubbing.
Chafing gear --------------- Rope, cloth or tubing used to cover a vessels lines to keep from chafing.
Chain locker --------------- The Area in the forward part of the vessel, typically beneath the bow in front of the foremost collision bulkhead, that contains the anchor chain when the anchor is secured for sea.
Chart plotter --------------- An electronic instrument which places the position of the ship (from a GPS receiver) onto a digital nautical chart displayed on a monitor, thereby replacing all manual navigation functions. Chartplotters also display information collected from all shipboard electronic instruments and often directly control autopilots.
Chock ----------------------- A deck fitting in which dock or anchor lines are lead through to prevent chafing and help secure their location.
Chronometer -------------- An accurate timekeeping piece used for celestial navigation or to determine longitude.
Cleat------------------------- The An anvil shaped deck fitting in which lines are secured.
Coaming -------------------- The raised edge of a hatch, cockpit or skylight to help keep out water.
Cockpit --------------------- An opening in the deck with seating where most of the controls for running the vessel are.
Come about ---------------- To change the vessels direction through the wind.
Compass -------------------- A magnetic device which shows the vessels direction in relation to the earth's magnetic poles.
Communications tube ---- The A air filled tube used to communicate throughout the ship.
Constant bearing ---------- The angle of approach of a vessel that remains constant over time that may indicate a possible collision.
Course ---------------------- The direction in which the vessel is moving.
Cuddy ----------------------- A small shelter in a boat.
D
Daggerboard --------------- The a board used as a keel, which is pushed through the bottom of the boat.
Davit ------------------------ The A spar used as a hoist to lift a dinghy or tender to a larger vessel.
Dead ahead ---------------- To keep the vessel moving ahead on the exact course.
Dead astern ---------------- The Directly aft of the vessel.
Dead in the water --------- A term used when a vessel has lost of power and was underway.
Deck ------------------------ Topsides. The upper part of the vessels hull on which the crew works.
Dinghy ---------------------- The A small boat used as a tender to a larger vessel.
Displacement -------------- The amount of water displaced by a vessel, equal to the boats weight.
Dodger --------------------- A hood forward of a hatch or cockpit to protect the crew from wind and spray. Can be soft or hard.
Doldrums ------------------ The equatorial trough, with special reference to the light and variable nature of the winds.
Downwind ----------------- To point the vessel directly away from the wind, so as the wind is dead astern.
Dolphin -------------------- A structure consisting of a number of piles driven into the seabed or riverbed as a marker.
Downhaul ------------------ The A line or device which applies downward pressure on a sail or spar.
Draft ------------------------ The amount of the vessel under water, from the lowest point to the waterline.
drogue ---------------------- A device to slow a boat down in a storm so that it does not speed excessively down the slope of a wave and crash into the next one. It is generally constructed of heavy flexible material in the shape of a cone.
E
East ------------------------ One of the cardinal points on a compass. 90°.
Ebb -------------------------- The receding current of a body of water. Tide returning to the sea.
Even keel ------------------- The When the boat is sitting or sailing level in the water.
Eye splice ------------------- The loop in a line made slicing the line back into itself.
F
Fair -------------------------- The clean, smooth shape of a vessel, the curve or lines of the hull with no imperfections.
Fairway --------------------- The navigable channel in a harbor, port or offshore that is generally used as the course taken by vessels in the area, at sea there called shipping lanes.
Fathom --------------------- A nautical depth measurement that equals 6 feet.
Fender ---------------------- A cushion placed on the outside of the vessels hull to prevent damage when tied to a dock or another boat.
Fetch ------------------------ The length of area over water where waves are formed by the wind.
Fid -------------------------- A spike shaped tool used in the splicing of rope or wire.
Fisherman's reef ----------- A sailing tactic for handling winds too strong for the sail area hoisted when reefing the sails is not feasible or possible.The headsail is set normally while the mainsail is let out.
Flag hoist ------------------- A method of stringing signal flags together to convey a message.
Flare ------------------------ The A pyrotechnic device used as a signaling device.
Flemish -------------------- To coil a line that is not in use so that it lies flat on the deck.
Flotsam --------------------- The Debris or cargo that remains afloat after a shipwreck.
Fluke ------------------------ The spade shape part of the anchor which grabs on to the sea bottom.
Fly by night ---------------- A large sail used only for sailing downwind.
Foot ------------------------- The lower edge of the sail.
Footloose ------------------- The unsecured lower section (the Foot) of a sail.
Fore-and-Aft --------------- Running from bow to stern, in line with the keel.
Forefoot -------------------- The lower section of the stem of a vessel.
Forepeak ------------------- A compartment in the bow of a vessel. Mostly used as a chain, anchor or sail locker.
Forestay -------------------- A cable or line attached to the bow and running to the top of the mast for stability.
Foresail --------------------- The forward most sail on a vessel.
Founder -------------------- A word used to express that the vessel is sinking.
Freeboard ------------------ The area of the hull from the waterline to the top of the deck.
Full and by ----------------- The Sailing into the wind just off of close-hauled. keeping the sails full and room for error so as to not be taken aback.
Furl ------------------------- To roll up the sails.
G
Gaff ------------------------- The spar that holds the upper edge of a sail.
Galley ----------------------- The kitchen area of a boat.
Gangplank ----------------- The Also know as a brow, it is a movable bridge used to board or disembark passengers and crew from a vessel.
Gangplank ----------------- An opening in the bulwark of the ship to allow passengers to board or leave the ship.
Gaff rigged ----------------- A sailboat that uses gaff.
Gennaker ------------------- A lightweight sail designed to be use in intermediate angles.
Genoa ----------------------- A large jib that extents pass the mast towards the stern.
Gin-pole -------------------- A large spar that aides in the rising and lowering of the mast.
Give-way vessel ------------ The vessel that is to stand down to another vessel in crossing,overtaking or meeting.
Glass ------------------------ Another word for a marine barometer.
GPS ------------------------- The A electronic device that operates off satellite radio signals to provide accurate navigation.
Gooseneck ------------------ The swivel mechanism that attaches the boom to the mast and allows it to move freely.
Grab Rails ------------------ The hand holds mounted on top of vessel and on the interior for safety when moving about the boat.
Green-to-green ------------ When two vessels pass each other on the starboard sides while moving in opposite directions.
Great circle ----------------- The line that follows the shortest distance between two points on the globe.
Ground --------------------- The sea floor or bottom of the ocean.
Gunwale -------------------- The upper part of the hull that extends above deck.
Gybe ------------------------ The act of changing the boats direction through the wind.
H
Hail ------------------------- To call out, signal or radio a person or vessel to gain their attention.
Halyard ---------------------The line that raises and lowers the sails vertically.
Hank ----------------------- A fastener that clips onto the forestay wire to hold the sail in place.
Hardin in
To haul in the sails to make them tight.
Harden up ----------------- To turn the vessel towards the wind.
Hard over ------------------ To turn the steering surface (rudder) of a vessel to its extreme limitations,
such as "hard to starboard."
Hatch ----------------------- The opening the boat's deck which is covered with a watertight lid.
Haul out -------------------- The act of moving the boat out of the by way of a crane or lift.
Hauling wind -------------- The act of pointing the vessel in the direction of the wind.
Hawser pipe --------------- The shaft or hole in the side of a vessel's bow through which the anchor chain passes.
Hawser --------------------- Large rope used for mooring or towing a vessel.
Head ----------------------- A slang word for the bathroom.
Heading -------------------- The direction in which a vessel is moving, given by the points on a compass.
Heave ---------------------- The act of lifting aboard ship in a up and down motion.
Heave down --------------- To Turn a ship on its side for cleaning.
Heave to ------------------- Stopping a sailing vessel by lashing the helm in opposition to the sails. The vessel will gradually drift to leeward, the speed of the drift depending on the vessel's design.
Heel ------------------------ The inclination or canting of a vessel to one side or the other from the vertical as she maneuvers or The lean caused by the wind's force on the sails of a sailing vessel.
Helm ----------------------- The steering mechanism on a vessel used to control the ship's direction. It mat be a wheel or tiller.
Highfield lever ------------ A type of tension lever, usually for running backstays. Their use allows the leeward backstay to be completely slackened so that the boom can be let fully out.
Horn ------------------------ A loud audio device use to signal or warn another vessel, such as a boat horn or fog horn. The horn also refers to the radio.
Hull ------------------------- The body of a vessel consisting of a shell and the frame.
Hull speed ----------------- The maximum efficient speed of a displacement-hulled vessel.
I
Icing ------------------------ A dangerous condition in which ice builds up quickly on the vessel.
( ICW ) ---------------------- The Intracoastal Waterway is a designated route running 3,000 miles along the eastern seaboard and Gulf of Mexico using a connection of rivers, bays and canals, so that boaters may travel inside the coastlines without going out to sea.
Inflatable ------------------- A term used for a type of personal flotation device, dinghy or lift raft.
Inshore --------------------- Near or in sight of the shore, also referring to a wind that is blowing from the sea to the land.
Iron mike ------------------- Another name for autopilot.
J
Jacklines ------------------- The safety lines on a vessel running the length of the boats sides to attach a safety harness to.
Jacobs Ladder ------------- A rope ladder lowered off the deck of a vessel to allow pilots, crew or passengers to board.
Jetsam ---------------------- Debris ejected from a ship that sinks or washes ashore.
Jenny ----------------------- Another word used for a genoa.
Jetty ------------------------ A stone, ruble or concrete structure extending into the sea from the shore to protect the harbor, marina or port entrance.
Jib --------------------------- A triangle sail found at the front of the vessel.
Jibe ------------------------- The act of changing the vessels direction through the wind.
Jib boom ------------------- The spar used to extend the bowsprit.
Jib-ho ---------------------- A verbal alert to the crew or passengers before jibing a sailboat.
K
Kedge ----------------------- A technique for moving or turning a ship by using a relatively light anchor known as a kedge. The kedge anchor may be dropped while in motion to create a pivot and thus perform a sharp turn.
Keel ------------------------- The spade shaped protrusion underneath the sailboat that provides stability and lift.
Ketch ------------------------ A twin masted sailing vessel.
Killick ----------------------- A small anchor.
Kicking strap --------------- A rope, tackle or hydraulic ram running from the mast at or just above deck level to a point part-way along the boom of a yacht's mainsail or mizzen.
Knockdown ---------------- When a sudden gust of wind or rogue wave pushes the vessel over on it's side.
Knot ------------------------- (1) A nautical measure of speed, 6076 feet per hour. One nautical mile.
(2) A way of interweaving line to form a loop or way of fastening a line to make it secure to another line or object.
L
Ladder --------------------- What stairs are called aboard ship.
Lanyard -------------------- A rope used to tie something off.
Lateral system ------------- A system of aids to navigation in which characteristics of buoys and beacons indicate the sides of the channel or route relative to a conventional direction of buoyage
Launch --------------------- The a small boat use ferry guest and crew back and forth from the vessel. Also called a tender or dinghy.
Lay -------------------------- The twist of braid of a rope or wire.
Lazaret --------------------- A storage bin located towards the stern of a vessel.
Lazy jacks ------------------ A system of lines used to store the sails on the boom when lowered.
leach ------------------------ The aft edge section of the sail.
League ---------------------- The A nautical measurement of length equal to 3 nautical miles.
Lee -------------------------- Any side sheltered from the wind. The downwind side of a vessel.
Leeward -------------------- The opposite of windward, away from the wind, downwind from a designated point.
Leeway --------------------- The distance of a vessel's side slide to the leeward caused by wind or current.
Leg -------------------------- A segment of a voyage aboard ship or a section of a race.
Let go and haul ------------ An order indicating that the ship is now on the desired course relative to the wind and that the sails should be trimmed and set.
Lie to ----------------------- To have the ship's sail arranged so that they counteract each other.
Lifejacket ------------------ A personal flotation device designed to keep a person or animal afloat in water.
Lifeboat -------------------- A smaller boat used to escape and survive the sinking of a ship.
liferaft ---------------------- A rubber inflatable raft used to escape and survive the sinking of a ship.
Lift -------------------------- Concerning boats, lift is the force created by water flowing past the hull.
Line ------------------------- The rope or cordage that is used aboard a vessel.
List -------------------------- A vessel's angle of lean or tilt to one side.
Lizard ----------------------- A short piece of line used to hold another line in place.
Lolling ---------------------- The A uncontrollable list in a vessel caused by inadequate transverse stability.
Loose footed --------------- A mainsail that is not connected to a boom at the foot.
Lubber's line --------------- The vertical line in a compass that indicates the direction of the ship.
Luff ------------------------- The forward most section of a sail.
Luff and touch her -------- To bring the ships so close into the wind that the sails shake.
Luff perpendicular -------- The shortest distance between the clew and the luff.
Luff up --------------------- The act of sailing a ship more into the wind to ease the pressure of the sails.
Luffing --------------------- The flapping of the sails, due to not enough wind to fill them.
Lying ahull ----------------- The act of dousing all the wind from the sails, batten down the hatches and locking the helm to leeward allowing the vessel to drift.
M
Magnetic bearing --------- The absolute bearing using magnetic north.
Magnetic north ------------ The direction in which the needle on the compass points, the earth's magnetic north pole.
Main deck ------------------ The uppermost deck extending fore and aft, also called topside.
Mainmast ------------------ The largest of masts on a vessel.
Mainsheet ------------------ The primary control line for the mainsail.
Mainstay ------------------- The wire, ropes or rods that run fore and aft from top of the mast to the bow or stern for support of the mast.
Making way ---------------- The When a vessel is moving under its own power.
Man overboard ------------ The warning signal to indicate that someone has fallen overboard into the water.
Marlin spike --------------- A spike shaped tool used to splice rope or cable and to untie knots.
Mast ------------------------ The vertical spar or pole on a vessel that supports the sails and rigging.
Mast Stepping ------------- The act of standing or removing the mast up from the boat.
Masthead ------------------ The platform at the top of the mast that rigging, sails and lighting are attached.
Metacenter ---------------- The point of intersection between a vertical line through the center of buoyancy of a floating body such as a ship and a vertical line through the new center of buoyancy when the body is tilted, which must be above the center of gravity to ensure stability.
Metacentric height -------- The metacentric height (GM) is a measurement of the initial static stability of a floating body. It is calculated as the distance between the center of gravity of a ship and its metacenter. A larger GM implies greater initial stability against overturning.
Midships ------------------- The center area of a vessel between the bow and the stern. An order to the helmsman To bring the rudder in line with the keel. (dead ahead)
Mizzen ---------------------- The the smaller mast of two located on the stern of a vessel behind the mainmast.
Monkey's fist -------------- A knot on the end of a line as weight. Usually Used to throw a further distance in mooring.
Moorings ------------------- A anchor, dolphin, dock or other structure in which a vessel may be secured.
Mousing -------------------- The use of seizing wire to secure a shackle pin or other rigging.
N
Narrows -------------------- The smallest area of navigable waters.
Nautical -------------------- Of or relating to the sea, sailors and ships.
Nautical charts ------------ Nautical Charts are Bathymetric charts showing the contours of the seafloor in detail with water depths.They will also show such things as obstructions, shipwrecks, fish havens, restricted waters and ATON's.
Nautical mile -------------- The approximate measurement is 6067 feet. Equal to one minute of latitude.
North ----------------------- One of the cardinal points on a compass. 360°
Navigation ----------------- The art and science of determining waypoints on chart and safely governing the vessels movement to that destination. ( Point A to Point B )
Nun ------------------------- A cone shaped navigational buoy.
O
Offshore -------------------- A area of water off the shoreline.
Oilskins -------------------- Another name for rain gear.
On the hard ----------------A term used to indicate that the vessel is onshore, usually in a boatyard on stands for storage or work to be done on the vessel.
Outhaul -------------------- A line that controls the draft of a sail.
Outward bound ----------- To leave the safety of port, heading to open sea.
Over-canvassed ----------- A sailboat that has too much sail up for current wind conditions.
Over-reaching ------------- Holding a course too long when tacking.
Overbear ------------------- To sail downwind directly at another vessel, stealing the wind from it's sails.
Overboard ----------------- Over the side or out of the boat.
Overhead ------------------ The ceiling of any enclosed space below deck.
Overhaul ------------------- Hauling the buntline ropes over the sails to prevent them from chafing.
P
Painter --------------------- A small line attached to the bow of a dinghy.
Passageway ---------------- Another name for a hallway aboard ship.
Pendant -------------------- A length of wire or rope secured at one end to a mast or spar and having a block or other fitting at the lower end.
Pennant -------------------- A triangle shaped flag.
Pinnace -------------------- A small boat driven by sails or oars used as a tender.
Pintle ----------------------- A bolt or pin on which the boats rudder pivots.
Pitch ------------------------ The up and down pivoting motion ( bow to stern ) from the center of the vessel.
Point ----------------------- A unit of bearing equal to one thirty-second of a circle, 11.25 degrees.
Point up -------------------- To change direction of the vessel so that it points the bow more into the wind.
Points of sail --------------- The course of a sailing vessel in relation the the direction of the wind, divided into six points:
in irons (Point directly into the wind), close hauled (sailing as close as possible into the wind), close reach (between close haul and close reach),beam reach (sailing with the wind directly on the beam), Broad reach (wind behind the vessel at an angle), downwind ( sailing with the wind behind the vessel).
Port tack ------------------- To be sailing with the wind on the port side of the boat.
Porthole -------------------- A nautical term for a window aboard ship.
Preventer ------------------ A sail control line originating at some point on the boom and leading to a fixed point on the deck or rail, used to prevent or moderate the effects of an accidental Jibe.
Port ------------------------- The left side of the boat facing the bow.
Prow ------------------------ Another word for bow.
Q
Quartering Sea ------------ A sea moving toward the boats quarter.
Quay ------------------------ Another word for a wharf.
Quayside ------------------- An area alongside of a quay.
R
Radar ----------------------- (Radio Detection and Ranging) An electronic device used to detect targets as a reflected image in order to determine the targets distance and bearing.
Radar reflector ------------ A special fixture attach to the vessel to enhance its ability to detected by radar of other vessels.
Rake ------------------------ To incline from perpendicular; something so inclined is called raked or raking, such as a boom, mast,stern, ect.
Range light ---------------- Two lights to determine a range between the two points, often the center of the channel.
Ratlines -------------------- The horizontal lines tied between the shrouds to form a ladder to the top of the mast.
Reaching ------------------- Is to sail across the wind at 60 to 160 degrees off the wind.
Reaching sail -------------- A special sail used to sail a tighter reach.
Ready about --------------- A call made to ready crew before tacking.
Red-to-red ----------------- The action of two vessels passing each other port to port in opposite directions.
Reef -------------------------(1) To reduce sail.
(2) A call made to indicate rock or coral. Danger of grounding.
Reef-points ---------------- Short lengths of cord attached to the sail at eyelets along the reefing band, used to tie down excess sail when reefed.
Reef-bands ---------------- Long stripes of heavy canvass sewn along the sails for added strength.
Reef-tackles --------------- The ropes employed in the operation of reefing.
Reefer ---------------------- Another word for refrigerator aboard ship.
Reeve ----------------------- To thread a line through blocks. (past tense Rove)
Relative bearing ----------- A bearing relative to the direction of the ship: the clockwise angle between the ship's direction and an object.
Rigging --------------------- A system of masts and lines on a vessel.
Righting couple ----------- The force that restores the balance of a vessel once the heel has altered the relationship between her center of balance and her center of gravity.
Rigol ------------------------ The rim or eyebrow above a porthole or scuttle.
Rode ------------------------ The anchor line and/or chain.
Rogue wave ---------------- A large and extremely dangerous type of wave that can appear without warning.
Roll ------------------------- The side to side motion of a vessel usually caused by a wake or wave striking the side of the boat.
Rolling-tackle ------------- A system of pulleys used to secure the yardarm to the weather side of the mast in rough seas.
Rolling vang --------------- A second set of sprit-vangs played out forward to a rail near the bow.
Round to ------------------- The act of turning the bow into the wind.
Rowlock -------------------- A bracket used to secure and pivot oars for rowing.
Rove ------------------------ (see reeve)
Rudder --------------------- A vertical board or plate attach to the vessel, then to the helm that steers the boat.
Running rigging ---------- A The rigging used to manipulate the sails, spars, ect.
S
Safe harbor ---------------- A bay,port or harbor that provide protection from bad weather.
Safe haven ----------------- Includes natural harbors that provides safety from storms or attack.
Sagging ---------------------When the trough of a wave is midships, causing the hull to deflect so the ends of the keel are higher than the middle.
Sail -------------------------- A shaped piece of fabric material used to attach to the boat.Used to catch the wind and propel the vessel.
Sail loft --------------------- A large flat, smooth (usually covered) area where sail are sized, made or repaired.
Screecher ------------------ A sail that can be used as a upwind, reaching sail or a genoa.
Scudding ------------------- The act of a boat being pushed along by a violent storm.
Scuppers ------------------- Drain pipes in the ship's hull to drain water from the decks or cockpit.
Scuttle ---------------------- The act of sinking a vessel.
Scuttlebutt ----------------- A drinking fountain found aboard vessel. Also a slang term used for shipboard gossip.
Scuttling -------------------- The act of sinking a vessel by opening the seacocks or making a hole in the vessel's hull.
Sea anchor ----------------- A large bag or chute deployed overboard in order to stabilize the vessel in heavy seas. It's purpose is to keep the hull into the wind and perpendicular the the waves.
Sea state -------------------- A general condition of the surface of the water with respect to the wind, waves and swell.
Sea trail -------------------- A testing phase of a ship when taken to sea To determine her performance and sea worthiness.
Seacock -------------------- A valve in the hull of a vessel used to allow seawater in or out of the vessel. Some uses are engine coolant, saltwater faucets, toilets and sinks.
Serve ------------------------ To cover a rope with smaller line to protect it.
Sextant --------------------- A mechanical viewing device used to determine position by means of celestial navigation.
Shackle --------------------- A u-shaped iron, with a screw pin at the open end used to securing stays to sails.
Sheet ----------------------- A rope attach to the clew for controlling the settings of the sail.
Shoal ----------------------- A shallow body of water that is a navigational hazard.
Short stay ------------------ When the anchor line is in between taunt or completely slack.
Shorten --------------------- (1) reduce sails.
(2) take the slack out of ropes.
Shroud---------------------- The lines (rope or wire) that support the mast on the sides of the vessel.
Skeg ------------------------- A downward projection from the keel and in front of the rudder. It's purpose is to protect the rudder from damage.
Slack tide v----------------- The period of time between high and low tides where there is no tidal current produced.
Sonar ----------------------- (sound and ranging) Sound pulses used to determine water depth or underwater targets or obstacles.
Sounding ------------------- To measure the depth of the water. Done by swinging the lead or using sonar.
South ----------------------- One of the cardinal points on a compass. 180°
Spar ------------------------- A pole used to support rigging and sails.
Spindrift -------------------- A fine mist of water blown over the crest of the wave by strong winds.
Spinnaker ------------------ A very large sail off the bow when sailing downwind.
Spinnaker pole ------------ The spar used to control the spinnaker or other headsail.
Splice ----------------------- The act of unraveling the ends of a rope or wire and intertwining them together to form a continuous line.
Spreader ------------------- A spar on the mast to deflect the shrouds to better to support the mast.
Springs --------------------- Larger tides caused by the alignment of the moon and the sun.
Spurling pipe -------------- A pipe that runs to the chain locker, where the anchor chain comes onto the deck at the bow.
Stand-on ------------------- The act of a vessel holding its course and speed, usually between two vessels passing to minimize the risk of collision.
Standing part -------------- The section of rope that is taut at a cleat 0r block. Not the loose end.
Standing rigger ------------ The rigging used to support the mast and spars.
Starboard ------------------ The right side of the vessel facing forward.( towards the bow. )
Starboard tack ------------- To be sailing with the wind on the starboard side of the boat.
Stay ------------------------- A strong rope or wire attached to the masthead and running down to other rigging or the deck fore (forestay) and aft (backstay).
Stayfall --------------------- A wire rove through blocks, one on the stemhead and the other one on the forestay. Used to lower the mast.
Staysail --------------------- A sail whose luff is attached to a forestay.
Steerage -------------------- The act of steering a vessel, and/ or having the ability to steer.
Steerageway --------------- The minimum speed at which a vessel will answer the helm.
Stern ------------------------The aft or rear section of a vessel.
Sternway ------------------- A vessel moving in reverse.
Stopper knot --------------- A knot tied in a line to prevent it from passing through a hole.
Stow ------------------------ To store away cargo, tackle or personal effects.
Surge ----------------------- (1) A Vessel's transient motion in a fore and aft motion.
(2) to slacken a rope, so it slides up the capsun slowly.
S/V ------------------------- Short for Sailing Vessel.
Swigging ------------------- To take up the last bit of shack on a line such as a halyard, anchor line or dock line by taking a single turn around a cleat and alternatively heaving on the rope above and below the cleat while keeping tension on the tail.
Sweat ----------------------- A technique to finally tension a halyard, by pulling alternatively on the tail from a cleat and at right angles on the taut standing line.
T
Tack ------------------------ A leg of a route of a sailing vessel when tacking. Port tack or starboard tack.
Tacking --------------------- The act of making headway into the wind to reach a certain destination by alternating course port (port tack)than starboard (starboard tack).
Tail -------------------------- The loose end of a wire or rope that is attached to a cleat or wrench.
Taking the wind out of the sails - The act of stealing the wind from another vessel.
Thwart ---------------------- A board that reaches across a open boat used for seating.
Tiller ------------------------ A lever attach to the top of the rudder post used to steer smaller vessels.
Toe-rail--------------------- A long and low strip running along the outside edges of the deck, to help prevent one's foot from slipping off the deck.
Topping lift ---------------- A line that is apart of the rigging in which it is used to adjust the boom.
Topsail --------------------- A sail that fills in the section between the mast and the gaff, above the other sails.
Topsides -------------------- The part of the hull between the waterline and the deck.
Touch and go ---------------(1) The vessel touching the bottom, but not grounding.
(2) The vessel stopping a pier or dock to take on or let off crew or stores, but not tying up.
Travellers ------------------ A fitting thats slides on a rail or rod most commonly used for the inboard end of the mainsheet.
Trim ------------------------ To make small adjustments in the sails to maximize their efficiency.
True Bearing --------------- An Absolute bearing using true north.
True North ----------------- The geographical direction of the north pole.
Turn ------------------------ A Knot passing behind or around an object.
Turnbuckle ---------------- A tensioning device consisting of two bolts and a threaded casing used to tension the boats stay wires.
Turtling -------------------- A when a sailboat has capsized (upside down) and remains there.
U
Unassisted sailing -------- A solo voyage, with no intermediate ports or physical assistance from outside sources.
Underway ------------------A vessel that is moving through the water, either by wind or power.
Unreeve -------------------- The act of withdrawing a rope from the opening of a ship block or thimble.
V
Vang ------------------------ A shortened term for boom vang. A line or piston system attached to the boom to help
control the shape of the sails.
Vanishing angle ----------- The degree of angle at which a vessel heeled over can not return to a upright position.
Veer away ------------------ To let go of a line slowly.
Viol ------------------------- A large rope used to heave up the anchor.
Voyage --------------------- A long journey by ship.
W
Waft ------------------------ A calm movement of air.
Wake ----------------------- The trail of small waves or disturbance left behind a vessel as it moves through the water.
Warp ----------------------- A method of moving a vessel by line or cable that is fastened to a anchor or pier.
Waterline -------------------(1) A painted stripe on a vessel that indicates that the boat is safe above water.
(2) Where the water meets the vessels hull.
Waterway ------------------ A navigable body of water.
Way ------------------------- The movement of a vessel through the water.
Waypoint ------------------ A predetermined area or navigational coordinates set as a destination point.
Weather side -------------- The side of the vessel that is exposed to the wind.
Weatherly ------------------ A vessel that is easily sailed and maneuvered.
Weigh anchor ------------- To hoist the anchor.
West ------------------------ One of the cardinal points on a compass. 270°
Wetted area ---------------- The area of the hull that is or remains underwater.
Wheel ---------------------- A round device used to steer a boat, the helm.
Whipping ------------------ The wrapping of twine on the loose end of a rope to prevent unravelling.
Whitecaps ----------------- The white area of a wave that bubbles when pushed by the wind or obstructed by an underwater obstacle, such as shallow water or reef.
Whisker pole -------------- A spar used to hold open a large jib or genoa when sailing downwind.
Wide berth ----------------- To give large space between to vessels.
Wind-over-tide ------------Sea conditions with tidal current and the wind in opposite directions creating short, heavy seas.
Windbound ---------------- A condition where clocking winds holds the vessel in one particular station.
Windage ------------------- Net wind resistance on a vessel.
Windlass ------------------- A winch usually mounted on the bow, used to weigh anchor.
Windsail ------------------- A tube or canvas used to direct wind into the lower compartments of the vessel.
Windward ----------------- Any direction into the wind.
Y
Yawl ------------------------ A two masted vessel with the second mast behind the helm.
Yaw ------------------------- A pivoting motion from the center of a vessel (bow moves side to side ), to veer off course, like when running with a quarterly sea.To have the ship's sails arranged so as to counteract each other.