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Parts of a Sailboat & Sailing Terminology

A sailboat consists of several key components that work together to harness wind power and navigate through water. Anyone learning to sail or interested in the mechanics of sailboats should know what these parts are called and what they do.

Main parts of a sailboat

While not all sailboats have exactly the same structure, there are a few features that are found on almost every sailboat:

• Boom : A horizontal pole that is attached to the mast. It holds the bottom of the mainsail.
• Cleats : Fittings used to secure lines.
• Cockpit : The recessed area where the crew sits and controls the boat.
• Forestay and Backstay : Steel cables (stays) that support the mast from the front and back.
• Halyard : A line used to raise sails.
• Jib / Headsail : A smaller sail located in front of the mast.
• Keel : A large beam that runs along the bottom of the hull from bow to stern, which prevents the boat from sliding sideways through the water.
• Mainsail : The large, primary sail attached to the mast and boom.
• Mast : A vertical pole that supports the sails.
• Rudder : Used to steer the sailboat, controlled by a tiller or steering wheel.
• Sheets and Halyards : Lines (ropes) used to control and adjust the sails.
• Tiller or Wheel : Used to control the rudder for steering.
• Outhauls : Control the shape of the sail’s foot
• Vangs : Control the vertical angle of the boom
• Winches : Used to adjust sail tension and control lines.
• Shrouds : Cables that support the mast laterally.
• Rig : The arrangement of masts, sails, and supporting rigging that propels the vessel. This refers to standing rigging (the fixed rigging that supports the mast) and running rigging (the adjustable rigging used to control the sails).

Types of rig

The choice of rig depends on factors such as the size of the boat, intended use, and sailing conditions. Each rig configuration has its own advantages in terms of performance, ease of handling, and versatility.

• Sloop: Single mast with a mainsail and one headsail, the most common modern rig
• Cutter: Similar to a sloop but with two headsails
• Ketch: Two masts, with the shorter mast (mizzen) forward of the rudder post
• Yawl: Two masts, with the shorter mast aft of the rudder post
• Schooner: Two or more masts, with the shorter mast forward
• Catboat: Single mast stepped far forward with one sail

All parts of a sailboat work together to allow the sailboat to harness wind power, maintain stability, and navigate through water efficiently.

Parts common to all boats

Sailboats also share several parts that are common to all boats :

• Hull : The body of the boat that provides buoyancy and supports all other components.
• Deck : The top surface of the boat.
• Bow : The front of the boat.
• Stern : The back of the boat.

Sailing terminology

Sailing terms are fundamental to communication while on board a sailing vessel, and are used frequently to describe parts of the boat, sailing maneuvers, and wind directions. Anyone learning to sail or participating in sailing activities should understand what these terms mean before they start.

• Port: The left side of the boat (facing forward from within the boat).
• Starboard : The right side of the boat (facing forward from within the boat).
• Aft: Towards the back (stern) of the boat.
• Windward: The direction from which the wind is blowing.
• Leeward: The direction opposite to windward.
• Tacking: Turning the bow of the boat through the wind to change direction.
• Jibing: Turning the stern of the boat through the wind to change direction.

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Parts of a Boat Explained

Captain tyler brady.

• October 5, 2022

Boat enthusiasts and first-time boat buyers, this post is for you!

We’re going to break down the anatomy of a boat so that you have a better understanding of where different areas are on the vessel. This list will help you when it comes time to buy your boat or speak with a professional about maintaining your boat.

Learning about the parts of a boat is the first step on your journey to becoming an expert in all things boating!

Refer to the list to learn all the different boat parts!

Parts of a Boat Defined

• Aft  – The back/stern of the boat
• Beam  – The beam of a boat is its width at its widest point
• Bridge  – The bridge is an elevated area on the boat where the captain steers the vessel. It’s also a great place to get a good view of everything around you.
• Bow  – The bow is the front or forward part of the vessel
• Bilge  – The bilge is the lowest internal part of a boat’s hull
• Bulkhead  – A bulkhead is a wall that divides compartments on a boat
• Cabin –  A cabin is an interior part of a boat that can be enclosed and is often used as a place to sleep while onboard a vessel
• Casting Deck/ Swim Platform –  A casting deck or swim platform is the area at the bow or stern of the boat designated for casting while fishing or for entering and exiting the water while swimming.
• Cleat  – A cleat is a fitting located on the gunwale of a boat or dock used to secure a rope for anchors, docking, fenders, etc.
• Deadrise – The deadrise of a boat is the angle between the hull and the keel
• Deck  – The deck is the flat walking surface of a boat
• Forward  – The front part of a boat
• Freeboard  – Freeboard is the distance from the waterline to the deck of a vessel.
• Hatch  – A hatch is an opening in the deck that provides access to parts of a boat below deck like storage compartments
• Head  – The head is a room on a vessel that contains a toilet and sink
• Helm  – The helm is the area of a boat where the captain or primary operator stands while driving or piloting the vessel
• Hull  – The boat hull is the main body of the vessel that keeps it afloat
• Keel  – The keel is a structural element located at the bottom centerline of a boat that helps with stabilization and tracking.
• Livewell  – A Livewell is a tank on a fishing boat that is used to store live bait
• Port Side  – Port side is the left side of a boat when looking towards the bow.
• Propeller  – The propeller is a device located at the stern of a vessel that provides thrust to move the boat through the water
• Pulpit  – The pulpit is a railing located at the bow of a vessel
• Running Lights  – Running lights are navigation lights located at a vessel’s bow that indicate which way the vessel is moving.
• Starboard Side  – Starboard side is the right side of a boat when you are looking towards the bow.
• Stern  – The stern is the back or aft part of a vessel.
• Superstructure  -The superstructure is the area above the deck that contains the cabin, bridge, hatches, etc. (more commonly used with larger ships compared to a personal watercraft)
• Throttle  – The throttle is a lever located at the helm that controls the speed of the vessel
• Rub Rail  – A rub rail is a protective trim piece located along a vessel’s gunwale that helps protect the hull from impact.
• Transom  – The transom is the flat area located at the stern of the vessel where the outboard motor is mounted
• Waterline  – The waterline is the line where the hull of a vessel meets the water’s surface
• Windshield  – The windshield is a glass or Lexan panel located at the bow of a boat that helps to deflect wind and spray while underway
• Underside  – The underside is the bottom of the hull that is below the waterline

Wrapping Up

There you have it! A complete list of the different parts that make up the anatomy of a boat. Of course, many more details and pieces make up a vessel, but these are the main components you should be familiar with. Now that you know your way around a bit, and become familiar with safe boating practices , then it’s time to get out there and enjoy boating!

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Sail away with these essential sailing terms (or risk walking the plank)

Welcome to our guide to sailing terms! Whether you are a seasoned sailor or new to the sport, understanding the terminology used on the water is essential for safe and effective navigation. In this glossary, we will cover some of the most common and important terms you need to know to communicate with your crew and understand the mechanics of your vessel. From bow to stern and hull to hull, we've got you covered. So grab your captain's hat and let's set sail on a voyage of language learning.

FAQ Sailing Terms

One reason why sailing terms are so different is that sailing has a long history dating back thousands of years, and the terminology that is used has developed over time to reflect the unique aspects of this activity. Another reason is that sailing involves a variety of different types of boats, each with its own set of equipment and terminology. For example, a small sailboat like a dinghy will have different parts and use different terms than a large sailboat like a yacht.

Basic Sailing Terminology: Sailboat Parts Explained

Sailing is a timeless activity that has captivated the hearts of adventurous souls for centuries. But, let’s face it, for beginners, sailing can be as intimidating as trying to navigate through a dark, labyrinthine maze with a blindfold on. The vast array of sailing terminology, sailboat parts and jargon can seem like a foreign language that only the most experienced seafarers can comprehend.

Fear not, intrepid sailor, for this comprehensive guide on basic sailing terminology for beginners will help you navigate the choppy waters of sailing jargon with ease. From learning the difference between the bow and stern to mastering the intricacies of sail trim, this article will equip you with all the knowledge you need to confidently take to the seas. So hoist the mainsail, batten down the hatches, and let’s set sail on this exciting journey of discovery!

Parts of a Sailboat

Before you can begin your sailing adventure, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the different parts of a sailboat. From the sleek bow to the sturdy keel, each component plays a vital role in keeping your vessel afloat and propelling you forward through the waves.

• Hull The main body of the boat that sits in the water and provides buoyancy and stability.
• Bow The front of the boat that meets the water and helps to determine its direction.
• Stern The rear of the boat where the rudder and motor are located.
• Deck The flat surface of the boat that you stand on, which can include various features such as seating, storage compartments, and hatches.
• Cockpit The recessed area of the deck where the skipper and crew sit or stand while sailing, which allows for easy access to the sail controls and provides protection from the wind and waves.
• Keel The long, fin-shaped structure beneath the waterline that helps to keep the boat stable and upright.
• Rudder The flat, vertical surface located at the stern of the boat that is used to steer and control the direction of the boat.
• Tiller or wheel The mechanism used to steer the boat, either in the form of a tiller (a handle attached to the rudder) or a wheel (similar to the steering wheel of a car).
• Mast The tall, vertical pole that supports the sails and allows you to catch the wind and move through the water.
• Boom The horizontal pole extending off the bottom of the mast that holds the bottom edge of the mainsail.
• Mainsail The large, triangular-shaped sail attached to the mast and boom that captures the wind’s power to propel the boat forward.
• Jib The smaller, triangular-shaped sail attached to the bow that helps to steer the boat and balance the force of the mainsail.
• Rigging The network of ropes and cables that hold the mast and sails in place and help control their movement.

Sail Terminology

Understanding the terminology associated with sails is critical to becoming a successful sailor. Here are 12 of the most important sail terms you should know, along with brief explanations for each:

• Luff The forward edge of a sail that is attached to the mast, allowing you to adjust the sail’s shape and angle to catch more wind.
• Leech The aft edge of a sail that is attached to the boom, which helps to control the sail’s shape and release the wind as needed.
• Foot The lower edge of a sail that is attached to the boom, which helps to control the sail’s shape and power.
• Head The top of a sail that is attached to the mast and controls the sail’s overall shape and angle.
• Battens The long, thin strips inserted into the pockets of a sail to help maintain its shape and stiffness.
• Clew The bottom corner of a sail that is attached to the boom or sheet, which helps to control the sail’s shape and power.
• Tack The bottom forward corner of a sail that is attached to the boat or a line, which helps to control the sail’s shape and power.
• Sail Area The total area of a sail, which is measured in square feet or meters.
• Sail Draft The curve or depth of a sail, which affects its performance and power.
• Sail Shape The overall form and contour of a sail, which is critical for catching the wind effectively.
• Reefing The process of reducing the sail area by partially lowering or folding the sail, which can be necessary in strong winds or heavy seas.
• Furling The process of rolling or folding a sail to reduce its size or stow it away, which is often used when entering or leaving port or in rough conditions.

Wind Direction and Sail Positioning

Understanding wind direction and sail positioning is crucial for successful sailing. Here are the key terms you need to know:

Types of Wind

• Apparent Wind The wind that is felt on the boat, which is a combination of the true wind and the wind generated by the boat’s movement.
• True Wind The actual direction and strength of the wind.

Points of Sail

You can find a detailed explanation of the points of sail here

• Close-Hauled Sailing as close to the wind as possible, with the sail set at a sharp angle to the boat.
• Beam Reach Sailing perpendicular to the wind, with the sail set at a right angle to the boat.
• Broad Reach Sailing with the wind at a diagonal angle behind the boat, with the sail angled away from the boat.
• Running Sailing directly downwind, with the sail on one side of the boat.

Other Terms

• Windward The side of the boat that is facing the wind.
• Leeward The side of the boat that is sheltered from the wind.
• Sail Trim Adjusting the sail and rigging to maximize the power and efficiency of the sailboat.

Navigation Terminology

Navigating a sailboat requires an understanding of a variety of nautical terms. Here are some of the most important terms you should know:

• Starboard Side The right side of a boat
• Port Side The left side of a boat
• Compass A device used for determining the boat’s heading or direction.
• Bearing The direction from the boat to a specific point on land or water.
• Chart A map or nautical publication that displays water depths, navigational aids, and other important information for safe navigation.
• Latitude The angular distance between the equator and a point on the earth’s surface, measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds.
• Longitude The angular distance between the prime meridian and a point on the earth’s surface, measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds.
• Course The direction in which the boat is traveling.
• Plotting The process of marking a course on a chart or map.
• Waypoint A specific point on a navigational chart or map that serves as a reference point for plotting a course.

• Tacking This maneuver involves turning the bow of the boat through the wind in order to change direction. To tack , the sailor will turn the helm towards the wind until the sails begin to luff, then quickly steer the boat in the opposite direction while adjusting the sails to catch the wind on the new tack.
• Jibing This maneuver is similar to tacking, but involves turning the stern of the boat through the wind. To jibe, the sailor will steer the boat downwind until the sails begin to luff, then quickly turn the stern of the boat in the opposite direction while adjusting the sails to catch the wind on the new tack.
• Heading up This maneuver involves turning the boat closer to the wind in order to sail upwind. To head up, the sailor will turn the helm towards the wind while simultaneously trimming the sails in to maintain speed and prevent the boat from stalling.
• Falling off This maneuver involves turning the boat away from the wind in order to sail downwind. To fall off, the sailor will steer the helm away from the wind while simultaneously easing the sails out to catch more wind and accelerate the boat.
• Docking This maneuver involves bringing the boat alongside a dock or other fixed object in order to moor or disembark. To dock, the sailor will typically approach the dock at a slow speed while using lines and fenders to control the boat’s position and prevent damage.

Knots and Lines

Learning the right knots and lines to use is essential for any sailor. Here are some of the most important knots and lines to know:

• Bowline This is a versatile knot used for many purposes, including attaching a line to a fixed object, such as a mooring or cleat.
• Square Knot A simple knot used to join two lines of the same diameter.
• Clove Hitch A quick and easy knot for attaching a line to a post or piling.
• Figure-Eight Knot A knot used to stop the end of a line from unraveling.
• Cleat Hitch A knot used to secure a line to a cleat.
• Sheet Bend A knot used to join two lines of different diameters.

• Main Halyard A line used to raise the mainsail.
• Jib Sheet A line used to control the angle of the jib.
• Mainsheet A line used to control the angle of the mainsail.
• Jib Furling Line A line used to furl the jib.

Sailing Safety

• Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) These are the life jackets or vests that you must wear when on board to ensure your safety. Choose a PFD that fits you properly and is appropriate for your body weight.
• Tethers and Harnesses These are designed to keep you attached to the boat and prevent you from falling overboard. Make sure to clip yourself onto the boat when you’re on deck or going up to the mast.
• Man Overboard ( MOB ) Drill This is a critical safety procedure to practice with your crew. Learn how to quickly identify and recover someone who has fallen overboard.
• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) An EPIRB sends a distress signal and your location to rescue services in an emergency. Make sure it’s properly registered and in good working condition.
• Navigational Lights Ensure your boat has the required navigational lights and know how to use them properly. These lights help other boats see you in low-light conditions.

Remember that safety is always the top priority when sailing, and it’s essential to take it seriously.

Sailing Terminology Conclusion

As we come to the end of our sailing terminology crash course, it’s important to remember that the world of sailing is vast and varied. Learning even the basics can be a daunting task, but with practice and perseverance, you’ll be able to hoist your sails and set a course for adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just starting out, understanding the terminology is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable voyage. From the parts of the boat to the knots and lines, each aspect plays a significant role in the overall sailing experience.

So, as you prepare to embark on your next sailing adventure, keep in mind the importance of safety, navigation, and proper etiquette on the water. And remember, when all else fails, just hoist the Jolly Roger and hope for the best! (Just kidding, don’t actually do that.) Happy sailing!

What is the difference between apparent wind and true wind?

Apparent wind is the wind felt by the sailor on the boat, while true wind is the wind direction and speed relative to the ground.

What are the points of sail?

The points of sail are the directions that a sailboat can travel in relation to the wind. They include upwind, close-hauled, beam reach, broad reach, and downwind.

What does it mean to be “on a reach”?

Being “on a reach” means sailing with the wind coming from the side of the boat, at a perpendicular angle to the boat’s direction.

What is tacking?

Tacking is the maneuver used to turn the boat’s bow through the wind, allowing the boat to change direction while still sailing upwind.

What is jibing?

Jibing is the maneuver used to turn the boat’s stern through the wind, allowing the boat to change direction while sailing downwind.

What is the difference between windward and leeward?

Windward is the side of the boat that is facing into the wind, while leeward is the side of the boat that is sheltered from the wind.

What is a boom vang?

A boom vang is a line used to control the position of the boom, which helps control the shape and position of the sail.

What is a cleat?

A cleat is a device used to secure a line to the boat, allowing the sailor to adjust the tension of the line without having to hold onto it constantly.

What is a winch?

A winch is a mechanical device used to control lines and adjust sails. It typically consists of a drum and handle that can be turned to wind or unwind a line.

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The basics of sailboat anatomy and terminology

Understanding sailboat anatomy and terminology is crucial for safe and efficient sailing, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned sailor.

The Basics of Sailboat Anatomy and Terminology

Welcome to the first installment of our Sailing Basics series! In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of sailboat anatomy and terminology. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned sailor looking for a refresher, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the ins and outs of sailboats and their various components.

As you embark on your sailing journey, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the different parts of a sailboat and the terms used to describe them. This knowledge will not only help you communicate effectively with fellow sailors but also ensure that you can safely and efficiently operate your vessel.

So, without further ado, let’s set sail and explore the basics of sailboat anatomy and terminology!

The hull is the main body of the sailboat, providing buoyancy and stability in the water. It’s typically made of fiberglass, wood, or metal, and its shape and design can vary depending on the type of sailboat. The hull is divided into several sections, including the bow (front), stern (rear), port (left side), and starboard (right side).

The keel is a long, flat structure that extends from the bottom of the hull and runs along its centerline. It serves several purposes, including providing stability, preventing the boat from being blown sideways by the wind, and acting as a counterbalance to the force of the sails. There are different types of keels, such as fin keels, full keels, and wing keels, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Located at the stern of the boat, the rudder is a flat, vertical blade that helps steer the sailboat by controlling its direction in the water. It’s connected to the tiller or wheel, which the helmsman (person steering the boat) uses to turn the rudder and change the boat’s course.

The deck is the horizontal surface that covers the hull and provides a platform for crew members to stand on and operate the sailboat. It’s usually made of the same material as the hull and can be divided into several areas, such as the foredeck (front), cockpit (middle), and aft deck (rear).

The cockpit is the central area of the deck where the crew operates the sailboat. It typically contains the helm (tiller or wheel), engine controls, and various instruments, such as a compass, GPS, and wind indicators. The cockpit is also where the crew can access the cabin below deck.

Lifelines are a series of cables or ropes that run along the perimeter of the deck, providing a safety barrier to prevent crew members from falling overboard. They’re usually attached to stanchions (vertical posts) and may also include gates for boarding the boat from a dock or dinghy.

Mast and Rigging

The mast is a tall, vertical pole that supports the sails and rigging. It’s usually made of aluminum or carbon fiber and can be stepped (attached) to the keel or deck, depending on the sailboat’s design. The rigging consists of various lines, cables, and hardware that connect the mast, sails, and hull, allowing the crew to control the sails and maneuver the boat.

Standing Rigging

Standing rigging refers to the fixed lines and cables that support the mast and maintain its position. The main components of standing rigging include:

• Shrouds : Cables that run from the top of the mast to the sides of the hull, providing lateral support.
• Stays : Cables that run from the top of the mast to the bow (forestay) and stern (backstay), providing fore-and-aft support.

Running Rigging

Running rigging consists of the lines and hardware used to control the sails, allowing the crew to raise, lower, and adjust them as needed. Some key components of running rigging include:

• Halyards : Lines used to hoist (raise) the sails up the mast.
• Sheets : Lines used to control the angle of the sails relative to the wind.
• Outhaul : A line used to adjust the tension of the mainsail along the boom.
• Cunningham : A line used to adjust the tension of the mainsail along the luff (front edge).

Sails are the primary means of propulsion for a sailboat, harnessing the power of the wind to move the boat through the water. There are two main types of sails: mainsails and headsails.

The mainsail is the largest sail on the boat and is attached to the mast and boom. It’s typically triangular in shape, with its leading edge (luff) connected to the mast, its bottom edge (foot) connected to the boom, and its trailing edge (leech) left free. The mainsail is controlled using the mainsheet, outhaul, and cunningham.

Headsails, also known as jibs or genoas, are smaller sails located in front of the mast. They’re attached to the forestay and are used to improve the boat’s performance, especially when sailing upwind. Headsails can be controlled using sheets and may be furled (rolled up) when not in use.

Now that you have a basic understanding of sailboat anatomy and terminology, you’re well on your way to becoming a confident and knowledgeable sailor. As you continue to explore the world of sailing, you’ll undoubtedly encounter more specialized terms and components, but this guide should serve as a solid foundation for your ongoing education.

In the next installment of our Sailing Basics series, we’ll be covering essential sailing skills, such as tacking, jibing, and docking. Until then, fair winds and smooth seas!

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The Anatomy of a Boat

By: Zeke Quezada, ASA Equipment , Learn To Sail , Sailboats

Do You Know the Parts of a Boat

Learning to sail is not just about feeling the wind in your sails. You also become familiar with the vessel that will be part of your new lifelong adventure. A sailboat can seem daunting with all its moving parts, but it is quite simple.

I recently learned the term Keel Hauling, and I was a bit shocked at not knowing the reference.  When you sail, you take on an entirely new language of words, sayings, and jargon.  A few of us sailors even embrace the same Jimmy Buffet songs as part of our perennial sailing playlist.  (that is another story for a different time)

My wife, who has sailed for over 20 years, is competent under most conditions at sail and knows her way around our vessel, but I was surprised that she didn’t know some of the simple terms that we sailors use daily. There are some fundamental terms that all sailors learn as they begin their sailing career and the rest of the information follows along as you spend more time on the water.

When you embark on a sailing education in ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Sailing, you learn about the anatomy of a boat. These are part of the fundamentals of sailing.  While these few terms are interchangeable among boats, they certainly are not the only terms you’ll learn, but they are the beginning of a new language when you become an ASA certified sailor.

This is a keelboat. It is different from a dinghy in that it is larger than 20 feet and has a keel. Keelboats start at around 20 feet with no upper limit in length. A 200-foot megayacht is considered a keelboat.

Sailboat Terminology

Dinghy – A small sailboat usually under 20 feet long and open for most of its length.

Keel – A fixed appendage on the bottom of the hull that provides sideways resistance needed to counter the force of the wind on the sails. The keel also carries ballast , usually iron or lead, the weight of which counteracts the force of the wind that causes a sailboat to heel , or lean over.

Hull – The watertight structural shell of a boat.

Bow – The forward part of a boat

Stern – The aft part of the boat. 

Transom – The more or less flat surface that closes the hull at the stern

Rudder – The sailboat is steered by a fin-shaped appendage attached beneath the boat toward the stern which can be rotated to change the angle at which the water strikes it. Water must flow past the rudder in order fo rit to work so it will not turn the boat while at rest.

The rudder is controlled by a wheel or a tiller at the helm of the boat. The person steering the boat is the helmsman .

Cockpit – The area of the boat, usually recessed into the deck , from which the boat is steered and sailed.

Deck – The generally horizontal surface that encloses the top of the hull.

Companionway – The entrance from the cockpit or deck to the cabin.

Stanchion – A metal post that supports lifelines .

Lifeline – A wire supported on stanchions around the perimeter of the deck to prevent crew from falling overboard.

Pulpit – A guardrail at the bow or stern of a boat to which (usually) the lifelines are connected.

Learning to Sail

• ASA 101: What You’ll Learn ASA 101 is your introduction to Basic Keelboat Sailboat and is your key to a lifetime of sailing.
• How To Sail Sailing a boat is part art and part skill but few activities offer such a variety of pleasures as sailing. Something special occurs when you cast off the lines and leave your cares at the dock.
• 7 Tips For The Beginning Sailor There are the obvious things you need when you go sailing, sunscreen, a hat, a windbreaker, non-skid shoes, and wind. However, what do you really need to be ready to head out on the water?
• How To Learn To Sail You won’t have to buy a boat or learn a new language or buy a new wardrobe to get a taste for sailing. You can dictate how much you want to experience.
• Learning To Sail Is Just The Beginning Sailing means different things to different people. At ASA we understand that learning to sail is just the beginning of a relationship with a lifestyle that is infectious. Where will sailing take you? We have a few ideas but how you view sailing is the most important.
• What Is Your Role on a Boat? What type of sailor are you and what role do you take on the boat? Your ASA sailing education will prepare you to be a skipper on a sailing vessel and with that comes the responsibility of keeping your crew safe and ensuring the safety of the vessel you are sailing.

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• Understanding parts of the Boat: Exploring Nautical Terminology

When it comes to boating and sailing, understanding the various parts and terminologies associated with a boat is crucial. One important aspect is the different sides of a boat and the specific terms used to describe them. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the fascinating world of nautical terms, exploring the side of a boat, sail terminology, ship terms, and more. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just starting your boating journey, this article will provide you with the expertise and knowledge you need to navigate the waters confidently.

• Port Side: The port side of a boat refers to the left side when facing the bow (front) of the boat. This term originated from the Latin word "portus," meaning left. To remember this, think of the phrase "red port wine" since both "port" and "left" have four letters. The port side of a boat is often marked with a red light at night.
• Starboard Side: In contrast to the port side, the starboard side of a boat is the right side when facing the bow. The term "starboard" comes from the Old English word "steorbord," which means the side of the boat where the steering paddle or rudder was located in ancient times. The starboard side is typically indicated by a green light at night.

Front and Back of a Boat

• Bow: The bow, also known as the front or forepart of a boat, is the forward section that cuts through the water. It's important to note that the bow is not just a simple point but rather a distinct area that helps with buoyancy and stability. On larger vessels, the bow may house various equipment, such as anchor lockers or seating areas.
• Stern: The stern is the rear part of the boat. It provides stability and houses the engine and steering mechanism on many boats. The stern can also refer to the entire back end of the boat, including the deck area. On sailboats, the stern often features a swim platform for easy access to the water.

Sail Terminology

• Main Sail: The main sail, also known as the mainsail or simply the "main," is the primary sail on a sailboat. It is usually the largest and most significant sail, providing the primary source of propulsion. The main sail is attached to the mast and can be adjusted using various control lines or sheets.
• Jib: The jib is a triangular sail that is set forward of the main mast. It helps balance the boat and provides additional propulsion when sailing upwind. The jib is attached to the forestay, which is a wire or cable that runs from the bow to the top of the mast.
• Spinnaker: The spinnaker is a large, colorful, and often asymmetrical sail used for downwind sailing. It is typically flown in light to moderate winds and helps catch the wind from the opposite side of the main sail. The spinnaker adds speed and excitement to sailing and requires skillful handling.

Nautical Terms for Sailing

• Tacking: is a sailing maneuver where a boat changes direction by turning its bow into the wind. This allows the sails to switch from one side to the other, enabling the boat to sail at angles against the wind. Tacking is essential for making progress towards the desired destination when sailing upwind.
• Jibing: also known as gybing, is the opposite of tacking. It involves turning the stern of the boat through the wind to change direction. Jibing is typically used when sailing downwind. It requires careful coordination to prevent the boom (the horizontal pole that holds the bottom of the mainsail) from swinging forcefully across the boat.
• Running: refers to sailing with the wind coming directly from behind the boat. It is the fastest point of sail, as the wind fills the sails without obstruction. When running, the boat's course aligns with the wind direction, and the sails are let out as far as possible to catch the wind efficiently.

Ship Terminology

• Forecastle: The forecastle, often abbreviated as "fo'c'sle," is the forward part of a ship's upper deck, typically located above the bow. Historically, it served as quarters for the crew and housedstorage areas and the anchor chain. Nowadays, on modern vessels, the forecastle may contain crew accommodations or be used for storage purposes.
• Quarterdeck: The quarterdeck is the aft part of the upper deck of a ship, usually reserved for officers and navigation activities. It is a designated area where important ship operations take place, such as commanding the vessel, navigation, and handling the ship's flags and signals.
• Hull: The hull is the main body or shell of a boat or ship, excluding the masts, sails, and superstructure. It is the watertight structure that provides buoyancy and supports the entire vessel. The hull is typically made of strong materials such as fiberglass, wood, or steel.

Exploring Wind Terminology

• Windward: Windward refers to the side or direction from which the wind is blowing. When sailing windward, a boat is heading into the wind, with the wind coming from the front. This direction is important for understanding the effects of the wind on sail trim and maneuvering.
• Leeward: Leeward is the opposite of windward. It refers to the side or direction away from which the wind is blowing. When sailing leeward, a boat is positioned with the wind coming from behind. The leeward side experiences less wind and is often used for smoother and more comfortable sailing conditions.

Essential Boating Terms

• Buoy: A buoy is a floating marker or beacon used to guide boats and indicate hazards or navigational channels. Buoys are typically anchored to the seabed and come in various shapes and colors, each serving a specific purpose. They play a vital role in safe navigation and are identified by their unique characteristics.
• Anchor: An anchor is a heavy device with hooks or flukes that is dropped from a boat to secure it in place. It grips the seabed and prevents the boat from drifting. Anchors are essential for stopping the boat's motion when mooring, waiting for favorable conditions, or stopping for activities like fishing or swimming.
• Rudder: The rudder is a vertical, flat, or blade-like structure attached to the stern of a boat. It is used for steering and controlling the direction of the vessel. By turning the rudder, the helmsperson can change the course of the boat, directing it left or right.

Common Sailor Terminology

• Skipper: The skipper is the person in charge of a boat or sailing vessel. The skipper is responsible for the overall operation and safety of the boat, including navigation, crew management, and decision-making. They possess the necessary skills and experience to handle the vessel in different conditions.
• Crew: The crew refers to the group of individuals who assist the skipper in operating the boat. Crew members can have various responsibilities, such as handling sails, steering, managing lines, and ensuring the overall safety and comfort of the boat and its occupants.
• Helm: The helm refers to the steering mechanism of a boat, including the wheel, tiller, or any other device used to control the rudder. The person operating the helm is responsible for steering the boat and following the skipper's instructions.

Understanding Sailing Directions

• Port: Port is a term used to refer to the left side of a boat when facing the bow (front). It can also indicate the left side of a channel or harbor. To remember this, think of the phrase "port wine is red," as red navigational lights are used to mark the left side of a boat at night.
• Starboard: Starboard signifies the right side of a boat when facing the bow. It can also indicate the right side of a channel or harbor. A useful mnemonic to remember this is that "starboard" and "right" both have the letter "R."
• Aft: Aft refers to the back or rear section of a boat. It is the opposite of the bow, which is the front. Aft is often used to describe the location of certain features or areas on a boat, such as the aft cabin or the aft deck.

Navigating the Waters: Basic Sailing Terms

• Heading: Heading refers to the direction in which a boat is pointing or the course it is set to follow. It is usually expressed in degrees relative to north, with 0 degrees representing north and 180 degrees representing south.
• Course: Course refers to the intended path or route a boat follows. It takes into account factors such as wind direction, navigational hazards, and the desired destination. The course may need to be adjusted during a voyage to account for changing conditions.
• Bearing: Bearing is a term used to describe the direction of an object or landmark relative to the boat's position. It is typically measured in degrees clockwise from north and helps in navigation and determining the boat's position.

The Fascinating World of Yachting Terms

• Yacht: A yacht is a recreational boat or vessel primarily used for pleasure and leisure activities. Yachts are often associated with luxury and are available in various sizes and configurations, ranging from small sailing yachts to large motor yachts.
• Catamaran: A catamaran is a type of boat or ship with two parallel hulls or pontoons. It provides stability and speed and is known for its efficient design. Catamarans are popular for sailing, cruising, and racing purposes.
• Monohull: A monohull refers to a boat or vessel with a single hull. It is the traditional design for most boats and ships, characterized by a single structure that cuts through the water. Monohulls are versatile and used for various purposes, including recreational sailing, fishing, and commercial transportation.

Getting Familiar with Nautical Definitions

• Draft: Draft, also known as draught, refers to the depth of a boat's hull below the waterline. It is the vertical distance from the waterline to the deepest part of the boat. Draft plays a crucial role in determining a vessel's suitability for certain water depths and navigating shallow areas.
• Beam: Beam refers to the width or breadth of a boat at its widest point. It is measured from one side of the hull to the other and contributes to a vessel's stability. A wider beam generally provides more interior space and stability but can affect maneuverability.
• Freeboard: Freeboard is the vertical distance between the waterline and the top of the boat's hull or deck. It represents the height of the hull above the waterline. Freeboard helps determine a boat's seaworthiness, especially in rough or choppy waters.

Sails: The Power of Wind

• Mast: A mast is a tall, vertical spar or pole that supports the sails on a boat. It is usually made of wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber. The mast plays a crucial role in supporting and controlling the sails, and it may have additional components like spreaders and rigging.
• Boom: The boom is a horizontal pole or spar that extends from the mast to the aft of the boat. It supports the bottom edge of the mainsail and allows for adjustment of the sail's angle and shape. The boom helps control the sail's position and plays a vital role in tacking and jibing maneuvers.
• Luff: The luff is the leading edge or forward edge of a sail. It runs along the mast and is typically attached to it using slides or luff cars. Proper tensioning and control of the luff are important for efficient sail performance and maneuverability.

Exploring Boat Anatomy: Bow to Stern

• Porthole: A porthole is a small, round window typically found on the sides of boats. It provides natural light, ventilation, and a view of the surroundings. Portholes are often made of strong materials like glass or acrylic and can be opened or closed as needed.
• Cleat: A cleat is a metal or plastic fitting used to secure ropes or lines on a boat. It has two horns or arms that allow the line to be looped and held securely. Cleats are essential for tying off the boat, securing fenders, or adjusting sail lines.
• Gunwale: The gunwale, pronounced "gunnel," is the upper edge or rim of a boat's sides. It provides structural support and helps maintain the boat's shape. Gunwales are often used as handholds and attachment points for various equipment and accessories.

Read our top notch articles on topics such as sailing, sailing tips and destinations in our Magazine .

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Sail boats near me: finding the perfect vessel.

• Boat Listings: When looking for sailboats in your area, online boat listings can be a valuable resource. Numerous websites offer comprehensive listings of sailboats for sale, including specifications, pricing, and contact information for sellers. Websites like YachtWorld, Boat Trader, and Sailboat Listings are popular choices for finding sailboats near you.
• Online Marketplaces: In addition to boat-specific listings, general online marketplaces such as eBay and Craigslist also feature sailboats for sale. These platforms allow you to filter search results by location, price range, boat type, and other criteria to find sailboats available in your area.
• Local Marinas: Visiting local marinas or yacht clubs is another excellent way to find sailboats nearby. Marinas often have bulletin boards or information centers where boat owners post ads for boats they want to sell. You can also inquire with marina staff or fellow boaters to get leads on sailboats that may be available locally.

Navigational Aid: Right of Way Rules

• Collision Avoidance: Collision avoidance is a fundamental principle of safe boating. It refers to the actions taken by boaters to prevent accidents and collisions on the water. Understanding right of way rules, maintaining a proper lookout, and communicating with other vessels are essential for effective collision avoidance.
• Stand-on Vessel: The stand-on vessel is the boat that has the right of way in a given situation. It maintains its course and speed, while other boats must yield and take appropriate action to avoid a collision. The stand-on vessel is typically determined based on specific navigation rules, such as when two boats are on intersecting courses.
• Give-way Vessel: The give-way vessel is the boat that must yield and alter its course to avoid a collision. It must take early and substantial action to pass astern or safely overtake the stand-on vessel. The give-way vessel is responsible for avoiding a collision by following the rules of navigation.

Safe and Sound: Boating Terminology for Safety

• Life Jacket: A life jacket, also known as a personal flotation device (PFD), is a crucial safety item on a boat. It is designed to keep a person afloat in the water and provides buoyancy in case of an emergency. Wearing a properly fitted and Coast Guard-approved life jacket is essential for boating safety, especially for non-swimmers and in rough waters.
• Flares: Flares are signaling devices that emit bright, colorful light to attract attention in emergency situations. They are commonly used to signal distress or indicate a boat's position to rescuers. Flares come in different types, including handheld flares, parachute flares, and smoke flares, each serving specific purposes.
• Bilge Pump: A bilge pump is a mechanical or electric device used to remove water that accumulates in the bilge area of a boat. The bilge isthe lowest part of the boat's hull where water can collect. The bilge pump helps to keep the boat dry and prevents it from taking on excess water, which could affect stability and buoyancy.

Steering and Maneuvering a Boat

• Tiller: A tiller is a handle or lever used to steer small boats. It is attached directly to the rudder and allows the helmsperson to control the direction of the boat by moving the tiller left or right. Tiller steering is common on small sailboats and some powerboats.
• Wheel: A wheel is a steering mechanism commonly found on larger boats and yachts. It is connected to the boat's rudder through a series of cables, hydraulics, or mechanical linkages. The wheel allows for smooth and precise steering, particularly in larger vessels where more force is required.
• Outboard Motor: An outboard motor is a self-contained propulsion unit that is mounted on the transom (rear) of a boat. It typically consists of an engine, a propeller, and controls. Outboard motors are popular for small to medium-sized boats, providing reliable power and maneuverability.

Hoisting the Sails: Sailing Terminology

• Sheets: Sheets are the lines or ropes used to control the angle and trim of the sails. The main sheet is connected to the lower aft corner of the mainsail, while the jib sheets are attached to the clew (lower aft corner) of the jib. Adjusting the sheets allows the sailor to control the shape and power of the sails.
• Halyard: A halyard is a line or rope used to hoist or raise a sail. The mainsail halyard is used to raise the main sail, while the jib halyard is used to raise the jib. Halyards are typically led through blocks or pulleys and controlled from the deck or cockpit.
• Clew: The clew is the lower aft corner of a sail, where the sheets are attached. It plays a significant role in controlling the shape and trim of the sail. Adjusting the tension and position of the clew affects the sail's angle to the wind and overall performance.

Exploring the Stern of a Boat

• Swim Platform: A swim platform is a flat area or platform located at the stern of a boat, extending beyond the transom. It provides a convenient and safe space for boarding the boat from the water, swimming, or engaging in water activities. Swim platforms can be integral to the boat's design or added as aftermarket accessories.
• Transom: The transom is the flat or vertical surface at the rear of the boat. It provides structural support and serves as the mounting point for the outboard motor or other propulsion systems. The transom may also include openings for drains, access hatches, or swim platforms.
• Stern Rail: A stern rail, also known as a pushpit, is a safety railing or guardrail located at the stern of a boat. It helps prevent people from falling overboard and provides a secure handhold. Stern rails are commonly found on sailboats and larger powerboats.

Ship Terminology Diagram: Understanding Parts of a Vessel

• Masthead: The masthead is the top section of a mast on a sailing vessel. It often houses navigation lights, radar equipment, communication antennas, and other instruments or devices.
• Forepeak: The forepeak is the forwardmost part of a boat's bow. It is often used for storage of anchor chains, ropes, or other equipment.
• Shrouds: Shrouds are the supporting wires or cables that run from the mast to the sides of the boat. They provide lateral support to the mast and help maintain its stability.

Wind Terminology in Sailing

• True Wind: True wind refers to the actual direction and speed of the wind in relation to the Earth's surface. It is the wind you would experience if you were stationary on land. Sailors often use true wind measurements to make strategic decisions and adjust their sails accordingly.
• Apparent Wind: Apparent wind is the wind experienced by a moving boat. It is a combination of the true wind and the boat's own forward motion. The apparent wind direction and speed can vary depending on the boat's speed and course relative to the true wind.
• Beaufort Scale: The Beaufort Scale is a system used to estimate wind speeds based on visual observations of its effects on the sea's surface. It ranges from Force 0 (calm) to Force 12 (hurricane). The Beaufort Scale is a useful tool for sailors to assess wind conditions and adjust their sail plans accordingly.

Sailing Crew Roles and Responsibilities

• Captain: The captain, also known as the skipper, is the person in charge of the boat. The captain is responsible for overall navigation, safety, and decision-making. They coordinate the crew's activities and ensure the smooth operation of the vessel.
• Navigator: The navigator assists the captain in planning and executing the boat's course. They use charts, GPS systems, and other navigational tools to determine the boat's position and plot the desired route. The navigator also monitors weather conditions and identifies potential hazards.
• Bowperson: The bowperson, also known as the bowman or bowwoman, is a crew member stationed at the bow of the boat. They are responsible for handling the sails, anchors, and other equipment located at the front of the vessel. The bowperson communicates with the rest of the crew and assists in maneuvering the boat.

Sailboat Types and Designs

• Sloops: A sloop is a type of sailboat with a single mast and two sails—a mainsail and a jib. It is one of the most common sailboat configurations and offers simplicity and versatility. Sloops are popular for recreational sailing and racing.
• Ketches: A ketch is a sailboat with two masts. The main mast is taller and located near the center of the boat, while the smaller mizzen mast is situated forward of the rudder post. Ketches offer more sail area and versatility in sail combinations, making them suitable for long-distance cruising.
• Cutters: A cutter is a sailboat with a single mast but multiple headsails. In addition to the mainsail, cutters have one or more headsails forward of the mast. The headsails can include a jib, staysail, or genoa. Cutters are known for their versatility and ability to sail in various wind conditions.

Nautical Left and Right: Port and Starboard

• Port: Port is the nautical term for the left side of a boat when facing forward (towards the bow). It is indicated by a red navigation light at night. To remember which side is port, associate the color red with "port wine."
• Starboard: Starboard is the nautical term for the right side of a boat when facing forward. It is indicated by a green navigation light at night. To remember which side is starboard, think of "starboard" and "right" both having the letter "R."

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150+ Nautical Terms: Illustrated Guide

Sailing and nautical terms have been refined over centuries, forming a unique glossary that can leave even the most seasoned wordsmiths scratching their heads.

Today, we’ll look at the terminology of words and names used at sea to help you through even the saltiest conversations.

Terms for the components a sailboat consists of

Let’s start with terms for the parts a sailboat is put together from. These refer to each component and explain what they are.

The main parts

Mast : The mast is the big, tall spar that holds up the sails! Some boats have more than one mast.

Mainsail:   The mainsail is the sail behind the mast and on top of the boom. Often just referred to as “the main.”

Boom:  The spar that sticks out behind the mast.

Rudder:  The rudder is also a fin sticking down under the boat but is located back towards the stern and connected to the wheel or tiller, enabling you to steer the vessel.

Headsail:  The sail(s) in front of the mast. Many boats have more than one headsail and can be of different sizes and shapes.

Spreader:  The fins or wings that space the shrouds out from the mast.

Hull:  This is the body or structure of the boat. Monohulls have one hull, catamarans have two hulls, and trimarans have three hulls – you get the point.

Keel : This is the heavy fin sticking down under the middle of the boat, allowing it to sail. There are many different keel designs, but they are all heavy, and their job is to keep the vessel stable and track through the water under sail.

Helm: This is the position where you steer the boat. Usually, this is a wheel, but it can also be a tiller on many vessels.

Cockpit: The cockpit is the boat’s steering position and where you will find the helm.

Transom: The flat surface across the stern of the boat.

Bow and Stern: The bow is the front part of a boat, while the stern is the rear end. 

Midship:  By some called amidships – The center of the boat.

Beam: The widest part of the boat. It is also referred to as the sides on the middle of the vessel.

Waterline: This is the part where the hull (body) of the boat meets the water. Many ships have a painted stripe to mark the waterline, indicating the boat’s load. If you have too much stuff on board, the waterline goes underwater, and it is time to do some housekeeping!

Freeboard: The vertical part of the ship side between the water and the deck.

Deck: The deck is the “floor” of the boat when you are outside. You have probably heard the term “All hands on deck!”

Spar: The general term for a pole made of a solid material like wood or metal used to support a boat’s sail. The mast, boom, spreaders, etc., are defined as spars.

Gooseneck:  This fitting connects the boom to the mast and allows it to move horizontally and vertically.

You can read more about the different parts of a sailboat in this article.

The standing rigging which holds the sails

Forestay:  The forestay   is a wire that runs from the bow to the top of the mast. Some boats, like the Cutter rig, can have several additional inner forestays in different configurations.

Furling system:  Most sailboats have their headsail on a furling system, a tube running along the forestay from the bottom furler drum to the masthead swivel. 

Backstay/Aft stay:  The wire that runs from the aft of the boat up to the top of the mast.

Shrouds:  On most common cruising boats, there are usually four shrouds on each side to support the mast from sideways motion. The shrouds are generally made of wire but can also be rods or Dyneema lines. The  cap shrouds  run from the masthead through the tips of the spreaders down to the deck. The  intermediate shrouds  run from the lower part of the mast, through the lower spreaders, and to the deck. The  lower shrouds  run from the mast under the lower spreaders down to the deck – one forward and one aft on both sides. This is called  continuous rigging .

Turnbuckle:  The fitting that connects the shrouds to the  chainplate  on the deck. These are adjustable, allowing tensioning of the rig.

Chainplate:  A fixed strong point bolted on the deck. Usually reinforced with a backing plate underneath. 

You can read more about the standing rigging in this article .

The running rigging which operates the sails

Line:  The running rigging on a sailboat often consists of lines, a type of rope with a smooth surface that works well when used on a winch. 

Halyard:  This is the line you use to hoist and lower the sail. 

Sheets:  The sheet is the line you use to  control a sail . The  mainsheet  controls the angle of the mainsail and is attached between the boom and the  mainsheet   traveler . The two headsail sheets are connected to the sail’s clew (lower aft corner) and run back to each side of the cockpit.

Outhaul:  The outhaul is attached to the clew of the mainsail and used to adjust the foot tension. 

Topping lift:  A line attached to the boom’s end runs through the masthead and down to the deck or cockpit. Used to lift and hold the boom and also function as a spare main halyard.

Downhaul:  A line used to lower with. Typically used to lower the mainsail when reefing and lowering the spinnaker and whisker poles.

Reef line:  Depending on your setup, these lines are used to reduce the sail area of the mainsail.

Shaking a reef: When we sail with a reefed sail and want to increase the sail area back to full, we call it shaking the reef.

Equipment used to operate the running rigging

Block:  A pulley with a sheave wheel. These are used to change the direction of a pull on a line or rope and give a mechanical advantage. 

Mainsheet Traveler:  The traveler is a horizontal track attached to the mainsheet through a series of blocks. The traveler enables you to adjust the boom from side to side or lock it at an angle.

Cars:  The cars are pulleys or blocks attached to a track on the side decks that your headsail sheets run through. They are used to control the angle of the sheet between the clew and the deck. 

Jammer:  The jammer is used to lock a line in place. Most sailboats use these for locking the halyards, mainsheet, outhaul, reef lines, traveler lines, boom vang lines, etc. 

Spinnaker Pole:  A spar used to wing out a headsail when sailing off the wind, particularly the Spinnaker. 

Whisker Pole:  Similar to the spinnaker pole, but typically built lighter and attached to a track on the mast. These can be found in fixed lengths or adjustable lengths. 

Boom Vang/Rod Kicker:  A compression pole is used to tension the boom downwards. 

You can read more about the running rigging in this article.

Deck gear and hardware

In-mast furling:  A furling system that furls the mainsail in and out of the mast as opposed to the traditional way where the mainsail is secured to the boom and is hoisted and lowered on a track behind the mast.

In-boom furling:  A furling system that furls the mainsail in and out of the boom. 

Stack Pack:  Also called  Lazy Bag or Lazy Pack . A bag with a zip attached to the boom where the mainsail is stored when unused.

Lazy Jacks:  A set of lines running from the stack pack to the mast guides the mainsail up and down from the Stack Pack and prevents it from falling on the deck. 

Masthead:  Not to be confused with the term masthead rigging. Out of context, the masthead is the top of the mast.

Winch:  A metal drum that gives you a mechanical advantage when tightening lines.

Sprayhood:  The windshield of the boat that protects the people in the cockpit from sea spray. Some ships have canvas spray hoods that can be folded down or removed. Others have solid sprayhoods, often called a  hard dodger  or a  doghouse .

Bimini:  The cockpit’s roof protects you from the elements and provides shelter from spray, rain, and burning sun rays! A bimini can be made of canvas or hard material. The hard bimini is usually called a  hardtop .

Outboard:  Short-term for an outboard engine, which usually belongs to the dinghy.

Cruisers:  What we sailors often call ourselves. Especially those of us living onboard. Although salty, we are definitely handy to have on board as we are also electricians, mechanics, plumbers, and you name it.

Fenders:  Like Captain Ron said in the movie, the rubber bumper things you hang off the side of your boat to prevent it from scratching against something like the key side or another boat. Conveniently also used to sit on or as a backrest while relaxing on the deck.

Boat Hook:  A long stick with a hook at the end. Used to grab lines, items, and stuff that is too far to reach by hand, like cushions flying overboard. It is also convenient as a tool to push the boat away from another ship or the key. Or to push mud or clay off the anchor . Or catch a wild flying halyard. Most vessels have them on board, and you want one or two. (They tend to get lost at sea).

Guard Rail:  This can be a flexible wire or a solid metal rail surrounding the boat to prevent us from falling overboard. Some also use a net as an addition for increased safety.

Pushpit:  The metal guard rail around the stern of the boat. This is where the guard rail is secured on the stern. A common place to mount the BBQ, life raft, and the outboard for the dinghy. 

Pulpit:  The metal guardrail on the bow. This is where the guard rail is secured onto the bow.

Stanchion:  The metal bar that keeps the guard rail in place around the boat between the pushpit and the pulpit.

Arch:  A big structure usually made of stainless steel on the back of a boat. Often used to mount a variety of items like antennas, radars, solar panels, wind generators, etc.

Ground Tackle:  This consists of your  anchor , your anchor  chain,  the link between the two, and the connection between the chain and your boat. The ground tackle is basically the system that holds your boat to the ground.

Windlass:  The winch that hoists or lowers the anchor and chain. Most boats have one on the bow, and some have one on the stern, too. These incredible things can be electrical or manual (some are both) and are essential to anchor your boat when not in a port or marina. Try to haul the anchor manually once – you’ll put a windlass on the top of your wish list pretty quickly…

VHF   Radio:  Very High-Frequency Radio that broadcasts on the VHF network and makes you able to communicate with others around you. Sadly, you won’t be able to tune in to your favorite radio show on these. Still, they are invaluable at sea for communication.

Chart Plotter:  A navigation computer that shows various information on a screen, like charts, routes, radar images, etc.

Parts below the decks

Companionway:  The “front door” of the boat. This is where the steps lead from the cockpit or deck down below. It is usually opened and closed using a hatch, two doors, or a plate.

Galley:  The kitchen of a boat is never to be called a kitchen. Always use the term galley when you are onboard!

Saloon:  This is the boat’s living room and usually where you find the settee and dinette.

Settee:  The couch in a ship.

Dinette:  This is the area where you can sit down at a table and eat your dinner. It’s also perfect for consuming rum in good company and a game of cards.

Cabin:  These are the “rooms” onboard but might not necessarily be the “bedrooms.”

Head:  There are no bathrooms on a boat, only heads. If your skipper tells you to go and clean the head, getting out the shampoo won’t do you any good.

Nav station:  Usually a chart table and a console with mysterious instruments like radios, chart plotters, radar screens, and all sorts of complicated electronics. This is often where adventures are planned and the skipper’s favorite seat onboard. (At least, that is my favorite and where all this content is created!).

Bilge:  The space in the bottom of the hull where water collects and sometimes a storage space for all sorts of things. It usually contains a  bilge pump  to pump out water that finds its way into the boat in various places. You may have heard the phrase: “Treasures of the bilge.” Now you get it!

Berth:  A place in the boat where you can sleep. This doesn’t necessarily have to be a bed and can often include the sleeping space in the salon. The term  sea-berth  usually refers to a sleeping position where you are tucked well in and can sleep when the boat is heeling over and moving around.

V-berth:  The bed in the front cabin is shaped like a V.

Bulkhead:  A wall inside the boat, usually supporting the structure.

Terms used for directions and navigation

Port and Starboard : Port refers to the left side of the boat when facing the bow (front), while starboard signifies the right side. 

Windward and Leeward : The windward side refers to the side of a boat facing the wind, while the leeward side is the side sheltered from the wind. These sailing terms also apply to geographic features, like islands or coastlines, that offer protection from the wind.

Chart : A nautical chart is a map specifically designed for marine navigation, depicting water depths, shoreline features, navigational aids, and potential hazards.

Compass : A compass is an essential navigational instrument that indicates magnetic north, allowing sailors to determine their heading and steer their vessels accordingly.

Course : The course is a vessel’s intended direction of travel, expressed in degrees from true or magnetic north.

Heading : The heading is the actual direction a vessel points, also expressed in degrees from true or magnetic north.

Latitude : Latitude is a geographic coordinate that specifies a location’s distance north or south of the equator, measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds.

Longitude : Longitude is a geographic coordinate that specifies a location’s distance east or west of the Prime Meridian, measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds.

Waypoint : A waypoint is a specific location, defined by its latitude and longitude, that serves as a reference point for navigation.

Bearing:   The angle between the observer’s position and a distant object, measured in degrees from true or magnetic north.

Fix : A fix precisely determines a vessel’s position using various navigational methods, such as bearings, GPS, or visual landmarks.

Dead Reckoning : Dead reckoning is a method of estimating a vessel’s current position based on its previous position, speed, and course over time.

Tide : Tides are the regular rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces exerted by the Moon and Sun. 

Current : Current refers to the horizontal movement of water in a particular direction. Currents can significantly affect a vessel’s speed and course, so make sure to consider them when sailing and navigating.

Buoy: A buoy is a floating device anchored in a body of water, such as an ocean, sea, lake, or river, to serve various purposes, including navigation, marking channels, identifying hazards, or indicating mooring locations.

The names of different sails and their parts

Mainsail:  The mainsail is the sail behind the mast and on top of the boom. 

Genoa :  A Genoa is a headsail that extends past the mast and overlaps the mainsail. 

Jib :  A Jib is a headsail that does not overlap the mainsail. 

Staysail:  A staysail is usually found on cutter rigs and is the sail set on the inner forestay.

Yankee:  A yankee headsail is used similarly to a Genoa or Jib but has a high-cut clew and is often used on cutter-rigged boats together with a staysail.

Mizzen sail:  A mizzen sail is typically a small triangular sail set on the aft mast of a boat with several masts, like the ketch rig.

Storm sail:  A storm sail is a small, strong sail to be used in heavy weather conditions where the headsail is furled to the point where its shape doesn’t give you drive anymore or/and when you want a smaller mainsail than your reefing setup allows you. The storm sails provide stability in the vessel in heavy weather sailing.

Spinnaker:  A Spinnaker is a symmetric light wind sail used to sail off the wind at deep angles between 120 and 180 degrees.

Gennaker:  A Gennaker is a cross between the Genoa and Spinnaker. It has the same type of light fabric as the Spinnaker but is asymmetrical like a Genoa with a tack set on the bow and a sheet led back from the clew to the stern of the boat.

Code Zero:  A code zero sail is a cross between a Genoa and a Gennaker. It is also designed for light wind with its lightweight fabric but has a different shape than a Gennaker. This makes it able to be used while sailing upwind, unlike the Gennaker.

Parasailor:  A parasailor is similar to a spinnaker but with some differences. It has a double-layer wing that inflates as the sail gets filled with air. This wing works like a batten and keeps the leech out while generating lift on the bow, making it effective between 70 degrees and all the way down to 180 degrees dead downwind.

The different parts of a sail

Tack:  The tack of the sail is the lower forward corner.

Clew:  The clew of a sail is the lower aft corner.

Head:  The top corner of a sail. 

Foot:  The foot of the sail is logically the bottom part of the sail between the clew and the tack.

Luff:  The luff is the front edge of the sail between the tack and head.

Leech:  The leech is the aft part of the sail between the clew and head. 

Telltales:  Telltales are small ropes, bands, or flags attached to the sail to give you an indication of the airflow around your sail. 

Battens:  Battens are slates or tubes inserted in pockets on the mainsail to help it keep its shape better and increase its lifespan.

Learn more about the different types of sails in this guide . 

Terms used when we talk about wind and weather

Gust : A gust is a sudden, brief increase in wind speed, often accompanied by a change in direction.

Squall : A squall is a sudden, strong wind that typically lasts for a short period and is often associated with rapidly changing weather conditions, such as thunderstorms or cold fronts.

Barometer : A barometer is an instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure. Changes in atmospheric pressure can indicate upcoming weather changes.

High-Pressure System : A high-pressure system is an area of relatively high atmospheric pressure, characterized by sinking air and typically associated with calm, clear weather.

Low-Pressure System : A low-pressure system is an area of relatively low atmospheric pressure, characterized by rising air and typically associated with clouds, precipitation, and potentially stormy conditions. Sailors usually refer to these systems as a “low.”

Front : A front is a boundary separating two air masses of different temperatures and humidity levels. Fronts are associated with changes in weather conditions and can cause sudden wind shifts and varying wind strengths.

True Wind Speed, or TWS: The actual wind speed affecting you at a point when you are standing still.

True Wind Direction, or TWD: The direction the wind is blowing from.

True Wind Angle, or TWA: The angle between your boat’s heading and wind direction.

Apparent Wind Speed, or AWS: The wind affecting the boat while in motion.

Apparent Wind Direction, or AWD: The direction of the wind in relation to your boat underway.

AWA  –  Apparent Wind Angle: The angle to wind while you are underway

Beaufort Scale : The Beaufort Scale is a system used to measure wind speed, ranging from 0 (calm) to 12 (hurricane). You can learn more about it at MetOffice here .

Saffir Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale: A scale describing hurricane wind speeds in categories from 1 to 5.

Learn more about the difference between actual and apparent wind in this guide .

Terms we use when cruising at speed under sail

Port Tack:  When the wind blows on the port side of your sails

Starboard Tack:  When the wind blows on the starboard side of your sails

Tacking: When you steer the boat from a starboard tack to a port tack and vice versa  upwind .

Gybing:  When you steer the vessel from a starboard tack to a port tack and vice versa  downwind .

Heeling : When the wind fills the sails and leans the boat over to the side.

NM:  Nautical Miles

Kt:  Knots – A measurement of speed used on boats.

Deg: Short for degrees

SOG: Speed over Ground, usually measured by GPS

SOW:  Speed over Water, usually measured by the boat’s speed log transducer.

COG:  Course Over Ground, the direction your boat is  moving  towards.

HDG:  Heading, the direction your boat is  pointing  towards.

Boom preventer:  A line or rope tied to the end of the boom and led forward of the mast to prevent it from swinging over when sailing off the wind.

Overpowered:  When wind overpowers the boats’ ability to steer a straight course. This typically happens when you try to sail above your boat’s hull speed, carrying too much sail area in relation to the wind, or your sails are poorly trimmed.

Hull Speed: The speed your boat has achieved when its created wave has the same length as the hull’s water length. Many displacement sailboats (the ones that don’t plane on top of the water) get hard to steer when going faster than this. You can learn more about how to calculate your hull speed in this guide: https://sailingellidah.com/average-distance-sailed-in-a-day/

Pro Tip:  Your COG and HDG will sometimes differ due to wind and current pushing you sideways.

Terms for the boats heading in relation to the wind

These sailing terms are best known as our points of sail and describe the vessel’s heading in relation to the wind:

Close Hauled:  When sailing close-hauled, the vessel’s heading is as close to the wind as possible, typically between 35-50 degrees.

Close Reach:  When sailing at an angle between 50 and 80 degrees, give or take.

Beam Reach:  The wind comes in from the side.

Broad Reach:  When bearing away from 90 degrees to around 135 degrees.

Running:  When sailing downwind.

You can learn more about the 5 points of sails in this guide : 

Final Words

I know there are a lot of nautical words and terms to keep track of, but luckily, no one expects you to know them all right away. You’ve probably already taken note of the most important ones, which means you’ve taken a giant leap in the right direction. Keep at it; you’ll speak like the saltiest seadog before you know it.

Did I forget to mention any terms you know of? Let me know in a comment below!

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Skipper, Electrician and ROV Pilot

Robin is the founder and owner of Sailing Ellidah and has been living on his sailboat since 2019. He is currently on a journey to sail around the world and is passionate about writing his story and helpful content to inspire others who share his interest in sailing.

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Sailing Terminology List: 300+ Sailing Terms

There’s a massive amount of sailing terms that any sailor will eventually learn with time and it can seem daunting essentially learning a new language.

Need to know sailing terminology will help you out when communicating with your crew members and captains of other vessels, so having a sailing terminology list handy can do a lot of good.

That’s why I put together this list of common sailing terms that’ll help you out the next time you head out on the water.

Aback – A foresail when against the wind, used when tacking to help the vessel turn. Abaft – Toward the stern, relative to some object. Abeam – On the beam, a relative bearing at right angles to the ship’s keel. Aboard – On or in a vessel. Adrift – A boat drifting without being propelled. Aft – At or towards the stern or behind the boat. Aground – A boat whose keel is touching the bottom. Amidships – The middle section of a vessel with reference to the athwartships plane, as distinguished from port or starboard. Apparent wind – The wind felt aboard a moving boat. Astern – Behind the stern of the boat. Athwartships – Across the boat from side to side.

Backstay – The standing rigging running from the stern to the top of the mast, keeping the mast from falling forward. Bail – To empty the boat of water. Ballast – Weight in the keel of a boat that provides stability. Barometer – An instrument that measures air pressure, an aid to forecasting the weather. Batten – A thin wood or fiberglass slat that slides into a pocket in the leech of a sail, helping to maintain an aerodynamic shape. Beam – The width of a boat at its widest point. Beam reach – Sailing in a direction at approximately 90 degrees to the wind. Bear away – To “fall off” or head away from the wind. Bearing – The direction from one object to another expressed in compass degrees. Beating – A course sailed upwind. Below – The area of a boat beneath the deck. Bend – To attach a sail to a spar or a headstay or to attach a line to a sail. Bight – A loop in a line. Bilge – The lowest part of a boat’s interior where water on board will collect. Bitter end – The end of a line. Blanket – To use the sail or object to block the wind from filling a sail. Block – A pulley on a boat. Boat hook – A pole with a hook on the end used for grabbing hold of a mooring or retrieving something that has fallen overboard. Boltrope – The rope that is sewn into the foot and luff of some mainsails and the luff of some jibs by which the sails are attached to the boat. Boom – The spar extending directly aft from the mast to which the foot of the mainsail is attached. Boom vang – A block and tackle system, which pulls the boom down to assist sail control. Bottom – The underside of a boat. Bow – The forward part of the boat. Bowline – A line running from the bow of the boat to the dock or mooring. Bow spring – A line running from the bow of the boat parallel to the dock or mooring that stops the boat from moving forward along the dock. Bowline – A knot designed to make a loop that will not slip and can be easily untied. Breast line – A short line leading directly from the boat to the dock. Broach – An uncontrolled rounding up into the wind, usually from a downwind point of sail. Broad reach – Sailing in a direction with the wind at the rear corner (the quarter) of the boat. Approximately 135 degrees from the bow of the boat. Bulkhead – A wall that runs athwartships on a boat, usually providing structural support to the hull. Buoy – A floating navigation marker. Buoyancy – The ability of an object to float. Bulwark – A solid side wall, often about waist high, from the outside edge of the deck to prevent someone from falling overboard. Burdened vessel – The vessel required to give way for another boat when the two may be on a collision course. By the Lee – A sailboat running with the wind coming over the same side of the boat as the boom.

Cabin – The interior of the boat. Can – In the U.S., it’s an odd-numbered green buoy marking the left side of the channel when returning to harbor. Capsize – To tip or turn a boat over. Cast off – To release a line when leaving a dock or mooring. Catamaran – A twin-hulled vessel with a deck or trampoline between the hulls. Catboat – A boat with only a mainsail and an unstayed mast located at the bow. Centerboard – A pivoting board that can be lowered and used like a keel to keep a boat from slipping to leeward. Centerline – The midline of the boat running from bow to stern. Chafe – Wear on a line caused by rubbing. Chainplates – Strong metal plates which connect the shrouds to the boat. Channel – A (usually narrow) lane, marked by buoys, in which the water is deep enough to allow a vessel safe passage. Chart – A nautical map. Charter – To rent a boat. Chock – A guide mounted on the deck through which dock lines and anchor rode are run. Chop – Rough, short, steep waves. Cleat – A nautical fitting that is used to secure a line. Clew – The lower aft corner of a sail. The clew of the mainsail is held taut by the outhaul. The jib sheets are attached to the clew of the jib. Close hauled – The point of sail that is closest to the wind when the sails are hauled close to the centerline of the boat. Close reach – Sailing in a direction with the wind forward of the beam (about 70o from the bow). Coaming – The short protective wall that surrounds the cockpit or hatch. Cockpit – The lower area of the deck in which the steering and sail controls are located. Coil – To loop a line neatly so it can be stored, or a reel of line. Come about – To alter course so as to cause the bow of the boat to pass through the eye of the wind. Companionway – The steps leading from the cockpit or deck to the cabin below. Compass – The magnetic instrument which indicates the direction in which the boat is headed. Compass rose – The circles on a chart which indicate the direction of true and magnetic north. Course – The direction in which the boat is being steered. Crew – Besides the skipper, anyone on board who helps run the boat. Cunningham – A line running through a grommet a short distance above the tack of the mainsail which is used to tension the luff of the main. Current – The horizontal movement of water caused by tides, wind, and other forces. Cutter – A single-masted boat rigged with both jib and staysail.

Daysailer – A small sailboat. Dead downwind – Sailing in a direction straight downwind. Deck – The mostly flat area on top of the boat. De-power – Reducing the power in the sails by luffing, easing the sheets, or stalling. Dinghy – A small sailboat or rowboat. Displacement – The weight of the boat; therefore the amount of water that it displaces. Dock – The quay or pontoon where a boat may be tied up. Dockline – A line used to secure a boat to the dock. Dodger – A canvas protection in front of the cockpit of some boats that are designed to keep spray off the skipper and crew. Downhaul – A line used to pull down on the movable gooseneck on some boats to tension the luff of the mainsail. Draft – The depth of a boat’s keel from the surface of the water.

Ease – To let out a line or sail. Ebb – An outgoing tide.

Fairlead – A fitting that guides sheets and other lines in a way that reduces friction and therefore chafe. Fairway – The center of a channel. Fake – Lay out a line on the deck using large loops to keep it from becoming tangled. Fall off – Alter course away from the wind. Fast – To secure something. Fathom – A measure of the depth of water. One fathom equals six feet. Fender – An inflated rubber or plastic bumper used to protect a boat by keeping it from hitting the dock. Fend off – To push off. Fetch – The distance of open water to windward between the shore and the boat. Fid – A tapered spike used to open the lay of a rope when splicing. Flood – An incoming tide. Following sea – Wave pattern hitting the stern of the boat. Foot – The bottom edge of the sail. Fore – Another word for “forward”. Forepeak – An accommodation or storage area in the bow below the deck. Foresail – A jib or genoa. Forestay – The standing rigging running from the bow to the mast top and to which the foresail is secured. Forward – Towards the bow. Fouled – Another word for “tangled”. Fractional rig – When the forestay is attached to the mast some distance below the top. Foul weather gear – Water resistant clothing. Freeboard – The height of the hull above the water’s surface. Full – Not luffing. Furl – To fold or roll up a sail.

Gaff – On some boats, a spar along the top edge of a four-sided fore and aft sail. Genoa – A large foresail whose clew extends aft of the mast. Give way vessel – The vessel required, by the regulations, to give way in a collision situation. G.M.T. – Greenwich Mean Time. The time at the prime meridian in Greenwich, London, England. Now referred to as Universal Time Coordinated U.T.C. Gooseneck – The strong fitting that connects the boom to the mast. Great Circle – A line drawn on a chart which is accurate over a long distance, a section of the Earth which intersects the center of the Earth. Grommet – A reinforcing ring set in a sail. Ground tackle – Collective term for the anchor and rode (chain and line). Gudgeon – A fitting attached to the stern into which the pintles of a rudder are inserted. Gunwale – The edge of the deck where it meets the topsides. Gybe – Another alternative spelling of “jibe”.

Halyard – A line used to raise or lower a sail. Hank – A snap hook which is used to secure the luff of a foresail to the forestay. Hard a-lee – The call given to the crew that will initiate the action of tacking. Hard over – To turn the helm or tiller as far as possible in one direction. Hatch – A large covered opening in the deck. Haul in – To tighten a line. Head – The toilet on a boat as well as the top corner of a sail. Headboard – The small reinforcing board affixed to the head of a sail. Headed – A wind shift which causes the boat to head down or causes the sails to be sheeted in. Heading – The direction of the boat expressed in degrees. Head down – Changing course away from the wind. Head off – Another word for “head down”. Head up – Changing course towards the wind. Headsail – A jib/genoa attached to the forestay. Headstay – The standing rigging running from the bow to the top of the mast. Head to wind – When the bow of the boat is dead into the wind. Headway – Forward progress. Heave – To throw. Heave to – To hold one’s position in the water by using the force of the sails and the rudder to counteract each other. Holding ground – The seabed or bottom ground in an anchorage. Hove to – A boat that has completed the process of heaving to with its aback, its main trimmed, and its rudder positioned to hold the vessel close to the wind. Heavy weather – Strong winds and large waves. Heel – The lean of the boat caused by the wind. Helm – The tiller. Helmsman – The person responsible for steering the boat. Hull – The body of the boat, excluding the rig and sails. Hull speed – The theoretical maximum speed of a sailboat determined by the length of its waterline.

Inboard – Inside of the rail of the boat. In irons – A boat that is head to wind and unable to move or maneuver.

Jackstay – A wire or webbing strap attached at the front and back of a vessel along the deck to which a safety harness line may be clipped. Jib – The small forward sail of a boat that is attached to the forestay. Jibe – To change the direction of the boat by steering the stern through the wind. Jibe oh – The command given to the crew when starting a jibe. Jiffy reef – A quick reefing system allowing a section of the mainsail to be pulled down and tied to the boom. Jury rig – An improvised temporary repair.

Kedge – A smaller anchor than the main or bower anchor. Often used for maneuvering or kedging off. Kedge off – To use an anchor to pull a boat into deeper water after it has run aground. Keel – The heavy vertical fin beneath a boat that helps keep it upright and prevents it from slipping sideways in the water. Ketch – A two-masted sailboat on which the mizzen (after) mast is lower than the mainmast and is located forward of the rudderpost. Knockdown – A boat heeled so far that one of its spreaders touches the water. Knot – One nautical mail per hour.

Land breeze – A wind that blows over the land and out to sea. Lash – To tie down. Lay – To sail a course that will clear an obstacle without tacking. Lazarette – A storage compartment built into the cockpit or deck. Lazy sheet – The windward side jib sheet that is not under strain. Lead – To pass a line through a fitting or block. Lee helm – The boats tendency to turn away from the wind. Lee shore – Land which on the leeward side of the boat. Leech – The after edge of a sail. Leeward – The direction away from the wind that is the direction that the wind is blowing to. Leeward side – The side of the boat or sail that is away from the wind. Leeway – The sideways slippage of the boat in a downwind direction. Lifeline – Rope or wire supported by stanchions. Lift – The force that results from air passing by a sail or water past a keel that moves the boat forward and sideways. Line – A rope. L.O.A. – The maximum Length Overall fore and aft along the hull. Lubber line – A line on a magnetic compass to help the helmsman steer the correct course. Luff – The leading edge of a sail as well as the fluttering of a sail caused by aiming too close to the wind. Lull – A decrease in wind speed for a short duration. L.W.L. – The length fore and aft along the hull measured at the waterline.

Magnetic – In reference to the magnetic north rather than true north. Mainmast – The taller of two masts on a boat. Mainsail – The sail hoisted on the mast of a sloop or cutter or the sail hoisted on the mainmast of a ketch or yawl. Mainsheet – The controlling line for the mainsail. Marlinspike – A pointed tool used to loosen knots. Mast – The vertical spar in the middle of a boat from which the mainsail is set. Masthead – The top of the mast. Maststep – The fitting in which the foot of the mast sits. Mizzen – The small aftermost sail on a ketch or yawl hoisted on the mizzenmast. Mizzenmast – The shorter mast aft of the main mast on a ketch or yawl. Mooring – A permanently anchored ball or buoy to which a boat can be tied.

Nautical mile – Standard nautical unit of distance equal to one minute of arc of the Earth’s latitude or 6080 feet. Navigation rules – Laws established to prevent collisions on the water. No-go zone – An area into the wind in which a sailboat cannot produce power to sail. Nun – A red even numbered buoy marking the right side of a channel when returning to port.

Offshore wind – Wind blowing away from the shore and out to sea. Offshore – Away from or out of sight of land. Off the wind – Not close-hauled point of sail. On the wind – Sailing upwind in a close-hauled point of sail. Outboard – Outside the rail of a boat. Outhaul – The controlling line attached to the clew of a mainsail used to tension the foot of the sail. Overpowered – A boat that is heeling too far because it has too much sail up for the amount of wind.

Painter – The line attached to the bow of a dinghy. Pay out – To ease a line. P.F.D. – A Personal Flotation Device such as a life jacket. Pinching – Sailing too close to the wind. Pintle – Small metal extension on a rudder that slides into a gudgeon on the transom. Point – To steer close to the wind. Points of sail – Boat direction in relation to the wind. Port – The left-hand side of the boat when facing forward, a harbor, or a window in a cabin on a boat. Port tack – Sailing on any point of sail with the wind coming over the port side of the boat. Prevailing wind – Typical or consistent wind direction. Puff – An increase in wind speed. Pulpit – A guardrail at the bows of a vessel.

Quarter – The sides of the boat near the stern.

Rail – The outer edges of the deck. Rake – The angle of the mast. Range – The alignment of two objects that indicate the middle of a channel. Reach – One of the several points of sail across the wind. Ready about – The command given to the crew to prepare to tack. Ready to jibe – The command given to the crew to prepare to jibe. Reef – To reduce the area of a sail. Reeve – To pass a line through a ring or block. Rhumb line – A straight line drawn on a Mercator chart, which intersects all meridians at the same angle. Rig – The design of a boat’s masts, standing rigging and sail plan. Rigging – The wires and lines used to support and control sails. Roach – The sail area aft of a straight line running between the head and clew of a sail. Rode – The line and chain attached from the boat to the anchor. Roller-furling – A mechanical system to roll up a headsail around the headstay. Rudder – A vertical blade attached to the bottom of the hull which is used to steer the boat. Run – Point of sailing when the wind is coming from dead astern. Running rigging – The lines used to control the sails.

Sail ties – Lengths of line or webbing used to secure sails when they are dropped or to secure the unused portion of a reefed sail. Schooner – A two-masted boat whose foremast is the same height or shorter than its mainmast. Scope – The length of anchor rode paid out in relation to the maximum depth of water. Scull – To propel a boat with a single oar fixed in a notch through the transom. Scupper – A cockpit or deck drain. Sea breeze – A wind that blows from the sea onto the land. Seacock – A valve which opens and closes a hole used as an intake or discharge from the boat. Secure – The make safe or tie down. Set – The direction of the current as well as to trim the sails. Shackle – A metal fitting at the end of a line used to attach the line to a sail or another fitting. Shake out – To remove a reef. Sheave – The wheel inside a block or fitting over which the line runs freely. Sheet – A line used to control a sail by pulling it in or easing it out. Shoal – An area of shallow water. Shroud – Standing rigging at the side of the mast. Singlehanded – Sailing alone. Skeg – A vertical fin in front of the rudder. Sloop – A single-masted sailboat with mainsail and headsail. Sole – The floor in a cockpit or cabin. Spar – A pole used to attach a sail on a boat, for example, the mast, the boom, or a gaff. Spinnaker – A large downwind headsail not attached to the head stay. Splice – The joining of two lines together by interweaving their strands. Spreader – A support strut extending athwartships from the mast used to support and guide the shroud from the top of the mast to the chainplate. Spring line – A dock line running forward or aft from the boat to the dock to keep the boat from moving fore or aft. Squall – A fast moving short intense storm. Stanchions – Stainless steel or aluminum supports at the edge of the deck which holds the lifelines. Standing rigging – The permanent rigging of a boat, including the forestay, backstay, and shrouds. Starboard – The right-hand side of the boat when looking forward from the stern. Starboard tack – Sailing on any point of sail with the wind coming over the starboard side of the boat. Stay – A wire support for a mast, part of the standing rigging. Staysail – Any sail which is attached to a stay. Steerage way – The minimum speed of the boat through the water that allows the rudder to function efficiently. Stem – The foremost tip of the boat. Stern – The aft part of the boat. Stern spring – A line running from the stern of the boat parallel to the dock or mooring that stops the boat from moving backward along the dock. Stow – To store properly. Swamped – Filled with water.

Tack – To alter course so as to cause the bow of the boat to pass through the eye of the wind. Tackle – A series of blocks and line that provide a mechanical advantage. Tail – To hold the end of a line so as to keep it under tension on a winch. Telltales – Short lengths of yarn or cloth attached to the sails which indicate when the sail is properly trimmed. Tide – The rise and fall of water level due to the gravitational effects of the sun and the moon. Tiller – A long handle attached to the rudder which is used to steer the boat. Toe rail – A low rail around the outer edge of the deck. Topping lift – A line used to hold the boom up when the mainsail is lowered or stowed. Topsides – The sides of a boat between the waterline and the deck. Transom – The vertical surface of the stern. Trim – To adjust the sail controls to create optimum lift from the sails. Trimaran – A three-hulled vessel. True wind – The actual speed and direction of the wind as you would feel when standing still. Tune – To adjust the boats standing rigging. Turnbuckle – A mechanical fitting attached to the lower ends of stays allowing the standing rigging to be adjusted.

Underway – A boat that is not attached to the ground by either anchor or mooring lines. Upwind – Towards the direction of the wind. U.S.C.G. – United States Coast Guard. U.T.C. – Universal Time Coordinated. As the modern term for Greenwich Mean Time, this is the standard reference time which is used internationally for navigational information.

Vang – A block and tackle system, which pulls the boom down to assist sail control. Veer – A clockwise change in the wind direction. Vessel – Any sailboat, powerboat, or ship.

Wake – Waves caused by a boat moving through the water. Waterline – The horizontal line on the hull of a boat where the surface of the water should be. Weather helm – The tendency of the boat to head up towards the wind, this increases as the sailboat becomes overpowered. Whip – To bind together the strands at the end of a line. Whisker pole – A pole temporarily mounted between the mast and the clew of the jib. Used to hold the sail out and keep it full when sailing downwind. Winch – A deck-mounted drum with a handle offering a mechanical advantage when used to trim sheets. Windward – Towards the wind. Windward side – The side of the boat closest to the wind. Wing-and-wing – Sailing downwind with the jib set on the opposite side to the mainsail. Working sails – The mainsail and the standard jib. Working sheet – The leeward sheet that is under tension.

Yard – The horizontal spar from which a square sail is suspended. Yawl – A two-masted vessel on which the mizzenmast is mounted aft of the rudderpost.

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The Parts of a Sailboat (of which there are a great many!)

Some parts of a sailboat are very small and cheap, but are far from insignificant. Take the humble clevis pin for example; find one of these on the foredeck and you've cause to be concerned for the security of your rig!

If we were going to discuss all the parts of a sailboat here, it would be a very long article indeed - but relax, that's not going to happen. 

Let's make a start with...

The Parts of a Sailboat Above Deck

Dacron is the usual choice of sailcloth for cruisers although laminated sails are becoming more common, and moulded sails are the first choice for racing sailors.

Read more about sails...

The Rigging

The standing rigging , generally made up in 1x19 stainless-steel wire,  supports the mast.

The forestay and backstay secure the mast in the fore-and-aft plane, and the shrouds secure it athwartships.

The ends of the stays and shrouds are secured to the structural elements of the hull via chainplates.

The running rigging is the collective name for the lines (halyards, sheets, topping lifts, uphauls, downhauls etc) that control the sails. Their working ends are attached either directly to the sails or, in the case of the headsail, to the boom.

Read more about sailboat rigging...

These are the rigid struts, generally fabricated in alloy, wood or carbon fibre whose job it is to deploy the sails. For example:

• The spinnaker pole;
• The whisker pole;
• The bowsprit;
• The boomkin.

Read more about sailboat masts...

The Cockpit

Like many cruising boats, the Ted Brewer designed Whitby 42 ketch pictured above has a centre-cockpit, which allows for the provision of a sumptuous aft-cabin below. Nevertheless, aft-cockpit boats have a great following with seasoned cruisers too. So what the aft versus centre-cockpit pro's and con's?

Tillers and Wheels

Smaller boats tend to be tiller-steered while larger ones, as in the image above, have wheels. Tillers are attached directly to the rudder stock; wheels are located remotely and operate the tiller through chain or hydraulic linkage.

Each approach has their devotees, but what are the arguments for and against?

The Parts of a Sailboat Below the Waterline

Keels & rudders.

Keels provide three key attributes in varying amounts depending on their design : directional stability, ballast, and lift to windward.

Rudders provide steerage and a small contribution towards lift to windward. They are either:

• Outboard or inboard rudders, which can be
• Unbalanced, balanced or semi-balanced, and be
• Keel-hung, skeg-hung, transom-hung or spade rudders.

Rudder types are discussed here...

Driven by the boat's diesel engine, the propeller allows good progress to be made when the wind is not cooperating.

Under sail though the propeller is redundant and the fixed blades provide nothing but unwanted drag. This is greatly reduced if the blades can fold aft in a clamshell arrangement or feather in self-alignment with the water flow.  

Sailboat propellers are either 2 or 3-bladed - and you can read more about them here...

Below Decks

There's no 'standard' layout for the below-decks accommodation on a sailboat, although the one shown above is a popular choice.

Some layouts work well for offshore sailing whereas others are much less suitable - here's why some succeed where others fail...

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Parts Of a Sail Explained (Illustrated Beginners Guide)

Are you curious about sail mechanics and how they engage the wind? In this illustrated guide, we'll explain the various sail components and how they work together to propel a sailboat. From the head to the foot, the tack to the clew, we'll break down each part and give you a solid foundation to build on as you learn to trim sails and navigate the open sea.

A sail, which is a large piece of fabric that is attached to a long pole called the mast, uses the wind to pull a sailboat across the water. It has various parts, such as the head, tack, clew, luff, leech, foot, mainsail, jib, and batten. These components determine the shape and efficiency of the sail.

Let's break down all these terms and descriptions to understand how each component interacts with each other. So, whether you're a seasoned sailor or a beginner, you'll have a better grasp of sail trim and optimal performance on the water.

• The primary parts of a mainsail include the head, tack, clew, luff, leech, and foot.
• Some critical elements of the jib include the sheet, genoa, and headstay.
• Asymmetrical spinnakers are designed for off-wind sailing and have a more rounded shape, while symmetrical spinnakers are used for downwind sailing and have a more traditional, triangular shape.
• The most common fabrics used for making sails are traditional fabrics like cotton and flax, and modern fabrics such as polyester and nylon, Dacron, Mylar, and laminates.
• Be sure to learn how to properly trim, reef, clean, flake, and store your sails for durability and optimal performance.

On this page:

Parts of a sail and their functions, mainsail components, jib components of a sailboat, components of spinnakers, sail controls and settings, sail care and maintenance, sail materials and construction.

In this guide, we'll focus on the three main types of sails : Mainsail, Jib, and Spinnaker.

Mainsail is the primary sail on your boat

The mainsail is the largest sail on a sailboat and is typically attached to the mast and boom. It is found aft (rear) of the mast. It's attached to the boat through a track or sail slide, which allows it to move up and down.

	Description
	the very top of the sail that is attached to the mast
	the bottom edge of the sail that is attached to the boom
	the front, leading edge of the sail that runs along the mast
	the trailing edge of the sail that runs from the head to the clew
	the bottom front corner of the sail
	the bottom aft corner of the sail that is attached to the boom
	are thin, flat strips of material (such as fiberglass or wood) that are inserted into pockets in the sail to help it maintain its shape and prevent it from flapping in the wind
	are sets of small lines or ties that are used to reduce the size of the sail in high winds
	are small pieces of ribbon or yarn that are attached to the sail to help the sailor determine the direction and strength of the wind
	are numbers that are affixed to the sail to identify the boat in racing situations
	include lines or sheets that are used to control the shape and position of the sail, such as the mainsheet, outhaul, and cunningham

Jib is a triangular sail placed in front of the boat

The jib is a smaller sail that is attached to the bow of the boat and works in conjunction with the mainsail to control the direction and speed of the boat. It helps to improve the boat's handling and increase speed, working in tandem with the mainsail.

	Description
	the top of the sail that is attached to the forestay
	the leading edge of the sail that runs along the forestay
	the bottom edge of the sail that is attached to the deck or a furling drum
	the trailing edge of the sail that runs from the head to the clew
	the corner of the sail that is attached to the deck or a furling drum
	are small pieces of ribbon or yarn that are attached to the sail to help the sailor determine the direction and strength of the wind
	are lines that are used to control the position and trim of the sail
	a device that allows the jib to be rolled up and stored when not in use
	are clips that are used to attach the jib to the forestay on boats that do not have a furling drum
	the bottom forward corner of the jib that is attached to the boat's bow

In some cases, larger jibs called genoas are used to capture more wind, thus increasing the boat's speed.

Spinnaker is designed for sailing downwind

The spinnaker is a large, colorful, and lightweight balloon-shaped sail designed for sailing downwind. It captures the wind from the rear, pushing the boat forward with added speed and stability.

	Description
	the top of the sail that is attached to a spinnaker halyard
	the leading edge of the sail that runs along the spinnaker pole
	the bottom edge of the sail that is attached to the spinnaker tack line
	the trailing edge of the sail that runs from the head to the clew
	the corner of the sail that is attached to the spinnaker sheet
	a long, horizontal pole that is attached to the mast and used to hold the spinnaker out from the boat
	a line that is attached to the spinnaker pole and used to control its position
	a line that is attached to the clew of the spinnaker and used to control its position and trim
	a line that is attached to the lower forward corner of the spinnaker and used to control its position
	a device that is used to control the spinnaker when it is being raised or lowered

In this section, you'll find a comprehensive explanation of the primary components of a sail and their functions:

Head is the uppermost corner of a sail

The head of the sail refers to the uppermost corner where it connects to the top of the mast. Knowing the location of the head is essential, as it helps you identify the top of the sail and allows you to properly hoist and secure it in place.

Tack is the lower front corner of a sail

The tack is where the lower front corner connects to the base of the mast, or the boom. This important point helps you determine the sail's orientation and affects its overall shape and efficiency. By adjusting the tension at the tack, you can control your sail's performance and handling in various wind conditions.

Clew is the lower rear corner of a saisl

The clew is where the sheets attach to control the sail's angle to the wind. Adjusting the tension on the sheets can change the sail's shape and ultimately influence the boat's speed and direction. Becoming familiar with the clew will help improve your sailing skills and ensure smooth maneuvers on the water.

Luff is the front edge of the sail

The luff is the forward edge of the sail that runs along the mast. It's crucial to maintaining a tight and efficient sail shape. When sailing upwind, pay close attention to the luff, as it can provide valuable information about your sail's trim. A properly trimmed sail will have a smooth luff, allowing the boat to move efficiently against the wind.

Leech is the rear edge of the sail

The leech is opposite the luff. It plays a critical role in controlling the overall shape and efficiency of your sail. Watch the leech carefully while sailing, as excessive tension or looseness can negatively affect your sail's performance. Adjusting your sail's trim or using a device called a "boom vang" can help control the shape and tension of the leech.

Foot is the bottom edge of the sail

The foot is running between the tack and the clew. It helps control the shape and power of the sail by adjusting the tension along the boom. Ensure the foot is properly trimmed, as this can impact your boat's performance and speed. A well-adjusted foot helps your sail maintain its proper shape and operate at optimal efficiency while out on the water.

In this section, we'll look at some critical elements of the jib: the sheet, genoa, and headstay.

Sheet is the line used to control the position and trim of the sail

The jib sheet is the line used to control the jib's angle in relation to the wind. You adjust the sheet to get the best possible sail trim, which greatly affects your boat's performance. The jib sheet typically runs from the jib's clew (the lower rear corner of the sail) through a block on the boat's deck, and back to the cockpit, where you can easily control it.

When adjusting the jib sheet, you want to find the perfect balance between letting the sail out too far, causing it to luff (flutter), and pulling it in too tightly, which can cause heeling or poor sail shape. Make small adjustments and observe how your boat responds to find the sweet spot.

Genoa is a larger jib used to capture more wind

A genoa is a larger version of a standard jib. It overlaps the mainsail, extending further aft, and provides a greater sail area for improved upwind performance. Genoas are categorized by the percentage of overlap with the mainsail. For example, a 130% genoa means that the sail's area is 30% larger than the area of a jib that would end at the mast.

Genoas are useful in light wind conditions, as their larger surface area helps your boat move faster. However, they can become difficult to manage in strong winds. You might need to reef (reduce the size) or swap to a smaller jib to maintain control.

Headstay provides a support structure for the jib

The headstay is a crucial part of your boat's standing rigging system. It is the cable or rod that connects the top of the mast (the masthead) to the bow of the boat. The headstay helps maintain the mast's stability and provides a support structure for the jib.

The tension in your headstay plays a significant role in the jib's sail shape. Proper headstay tension will create a smooth, even curve, allowing your jib to perform optimally. If the headstay is too tight, the sail may be too flat, reducing its power, whereas a loose headstay can result in a sagging, inefficient sail shape.

A spinnaker is a sail designed specifically for sailing off the wind , on courses between a reach and downwind. They are made of lightweight fabric, often brightly colored, and help maximize your sailing speed and performance.

Asymmetrical spinnakers are designed for off-wind sailing

Asymmetrical spinnakers are usually found on modern cruising and racing boats. They're designed for a broader range of wind angles and have a more forgiving shape, making them easier for you to handle. Key components of an asymmetrical spinnaker include:

• Tack : This is the front, lower corner where the sail connects to the boat. A tack line is used to adjust the sail's position relative to the bow.
• Head : The top corner of the sail, where it connects to the halyard to be hoisted up the mast.
• Clew : The aft corner of the sail, connected to the sheet, allowing you to control the angle of the sail to catch the wind effectively.

You can find a step-by-step guide on how to rig and hoist an asymmetrical spinnaker here .

Symmetrical spinnakers are used for downwind sailing

Symmetrical spinnakers are more traditional and usually found on racing boats, where downwind performance is critical. These sails are shaped like a large parachute and are split into two identical halves. Key components of a symmetrical spinnaker include:

• Head : Similar to the asymmetrical spinnaker, the head is the top corner connected to the halyard.
• Clews : Unlike an asymmetrical spinnaker, a symmetrical spinnaker has two clews. Both are connected to sheets and guys, which help control the sail's shape and movement.
• Spinnaker Pole : This is a horizontal pole that extends from the mast and is used to project the windward clew outwards and hold the sail open.

Handling a symmetrical spinnaker can be more challenging, as it requires precise teamwork and coordination. If you're new to sailing with this type of sail, don't hesitate to seek guidance from experienced sailors to improve your technique.

In this section, we'll explore sail controls and settings, which are essential for beginners to understand for efficient sailing. We'll discuss trimming, and reefing, as sub-sections.

Trimming your sails for speed and stability

Trimming is the process of adjusting your sails to optimize them for the current wind conditions and desired direction. Proper sail trim is crucial for maximizing your boat's speed and stability. Here are some basic tips for sail trimming:

• Pay attention to the telltales, which are small ribbons or yarn attached to the sails. They help you understand the airflow over your sails and indicate whether they're properly trimmed.
• Use the sheets, which are lines attached to the clew of your sails, to adjust the angle of your sails relative to the wind.
• In light winds, ease the sails slightly to create a more rounded shape for better lift. In stronger winds, flatten the sails to reduce drag and prevent excessive heeling.

Reefing your sails for control and balance

Reefing is the process of reducing the sail area to help maintain control and balance in stronger wind conditions. It's an essential skill to learn for your safety and the longevity of your sails. Follow these steps to reef your sails:

• Head into the wind to reduce pressure on the sails.
• Lower the halyard (the line that raises the sail) until the sail reaches the desired reefing point.
• Attach the sail's reefing cringle (reinforced eyelet) to the reefing hook or tack line.
• Tighten the new, lower clew (bottom corner) of the sail to the boom with the reef line.
• Raise the halyard back up to tension the reduced sail.

Take proper care of your sailboat to ensure that it remains in top condition. In this section, we will discuss the key aspects of sail care and maintenance, focusing on cleaning and storage.

Steps to clean your sails

Keeping your sail clean is crucial for its longevity and performance. Follow these simple steps to maintain a spotless sail:

• Rinse with fresh water after each use, paying extra attention to areas affected by saltwater, debris, and bird droppings.
• Use a soft-bristled brush and a mild detergent to gently scrub away dirt and stains. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they may damage the fabric.
• Rinse again thoroughly, ensuring all soap is washed away.
• Spread your sail out to air-dry, avoiding direct sunlight, which may harm the fabric's UV protection.

Ways to store your sails

Sail storage is equally important for preserving the lifespan of your sail. Here are some tips for proper sail storage:

• Fold or roll your sail : Avoid stuffing or crumpling your sail; instead, gently fold or roll it to minimize creases and wear on the fabric.
• Protect from UV rays : UV exposure can significantly reduce the life of your sail. Store it in a cool, shaded area or use a UV-resistant sail cover when not in use.
• Ventilation : Ensure your sail is stored in a well-ventilated area to prevent mildew and stale odors.
• Lay flat or hang : If space allows, store your sail laid out flat or hanging vertically to reduce the risk of creasing and fabric damage.

Flaking your sails when not in use

Flaking is the process of neatly folding your sails when they're not in use, either on the boom or deck. This helps protect your sails from damage and prolongs their lifespan. Here's how to flake your sails:

• Lower the sail slowly, using the halyard while keeping some tension on it.
• As the sail comes down, gather and fold the sail material in an accordion-like pattern on top of the boom or deck.
• Secure the flaked sail with sail ties or a sail cover to prevent it from coming undone.

Traditional fabrics used to make sails

In the early days of sailing, natural materials like cotton and flax were used to make sails. These fabrics were durable, breathable, and held up well in various weather conditions. However, they would eventually wear out and lose their shape due to the constant exposure to UV rays and seawater.

While traditional fabrics like cotton and flax were once commonly used for sailmaking, they have largely been replaced by synthetic materials like polyester and nylon due to their superior strength, durability, and resistance to mildew and rot. However, some sailors and sailmakers still use cotton and other natural fibers for certain applications, such as traditional sailmaking or historical recreations.

Modern fabrics used to make sails

Modern sail materials, such as Dacron, Mylar, and laminates, are more resilient and longer-lasting than traditional fabrics. These materials are lightweight, strong, and resistant to UV rays and water damage.

Dacron : Dacron is a popular material for sails because of its durability, UV resistance, and ease of maintenance. It's a type of polyester fabric that is often used for making cruising sails. Dacron offers excellent shape retention and resistance to stretch, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced sailors.

Laminate materials : Laminate sails are made by bonding multiple layers of materials like Mylar, polyester, and Kevlar. These sails offer better shape and performance compared to their fabric counterparts, making them popular among racers. However, they tend to be more delicate and may not be suitable for long-term cruising.

Mylar films : Mylar films are used in laminate sails for their excellent strength-to-weight ratio and shape retention. These films are often sandwiched between other materials, such as polyester or Kevlar, to enhance the sail's resistance to stretch and load handling. However, Mylar sails can be susceptible to delamination and abrasion, requiring extra care and regular inspection.

Sail stitching for shape and durability

Sail stitching is an essential aspect of sail construction, helping to maintain the sail's shape and durability. Various stitching techniques can be used, such as zigzag, straight, and triple-step sewing. The choice of stitching type depends on the sail's purpose and expected loads. In addition, using UV-resistant thread ensures that the stitching lasts longer under harsh sun exposure.

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Learn the Parts of a Sailboat and How to Communicate Them

Essential Words You Need to Know

Pierre-Yves Babelon/Getty Images

The following are terms related to sailboats and their equipment , including the parts of the boat and how to communicate on one. Enjoy our list of all things nautical.

• Auxiliary - A sailboat's engine, or a sailboat with an engine
• Backstay - The cable, usually made of wire, running from the stern to the masthead that helps support the mast
• Ballast - The weight in a sailboat's keel (sometimes in a centerboard) that helps keep the boat from leaning too much
• Batten - A slat, typically made of plastic, placed in a pocket in the mainsail to help it maintain good shape
• Beam - The width of the boat at its widest point
• Bitter end - The free end of a line
• Block - A pulley-like device used on a boat, with a sheave around which a line runs
• Boom - The spar, which is usually horizontal, back from the mast to which the foot of a sail is attached
• Boom vang - A device that prevents the boom from rising and, in some types, lowering
• Bow - The front section of the boat
• Cat rig - A sailboat designed for using a mainsail only, with the mast usually located more forward than in a sloop
• Centerboard - A thin, keel-like structure that can be raised (usually rotated on a hinge up into a centerboard trunk in the hull) that's present on many sailboats without a fixed keel to prevent the boat from being blown sideways
• Chock - A type of fairlead fitting through which an anchor rode or dock line passes to reduce chafing
• Cleat - A fitting around which a line is secured
• Companionway - The entrance area and steps from the cockpit into a sailboat's cabin
• Clew - The lower rear corner of a sail
• Daggerboard - Like a centerboard, but raised and lowered vertically instead of rotating on a hinge
• Daysailer - Generally a small sailboat without a cabin large enough for comfortable overnight cruising
• Dinghy - A type of small sailboat or a small row or powered craft typically taken along when cruising in a larger sailboat
• Displacement - The weight of a boat, equal to the weight of water the boat displaces
• Dodger - A spray shield often made of foldable or removable fabric at the front of the cockpit
• Draft - The distance from a boat's waterline to the lowest part of its keel
• Fender - A bumper generally made of rubber hung alongside the boat to prevent the hull from rubbing against a dock or other structure
• Foot - The bottom edge of a sail (compare to leach and luff, below)
• Forestay - A cable usually made of wire running from the bow to the masthead that helps support the mast
• Forward - Toward the bow
• Freeboard - The height of the deck above the water (the topsides section of the hull)
• Gate - An opening in the lifelines for boarding the boat, also called gangway
• Genoa - A large jib sail (the clew extends aft of the mast)
• Gooseneck - The fitting that attaches the boom to the mast
• Ground tackle - The collective term for a boat's anchor and anchor rode
• Gunwale (sometimes gunnel) - The outer edge of the boat's deck and cockpit, also called the rail
• Halyard - Line or wire used to hoist a sail
• Hank on - To attach a jib sail to the forestay with small snap hooks called hanks
• Head - The bathroom of a boat and also the top corner of a sail
• Helm - The means by which the sailboat is steered: the tiller or wheel
• Jackline - A line, strap, or wire secured over the deck as an attachment point for the tether of a safety harness
• Jib - The triangular sail attached to the forestay
• Keel - The lower section of a sailboat's hull that's usually permanent and counteracts sideways movement and typically contains ballast
• Ketch - A type of sailboat with two masts
• Lanyard - A short cord or line, often used to secure a piece of gear (knife, whistle, etc.) that might be dropped
• Leech - The back edge of a jib or mainsail (compare to foot and luff, above and below)
• Lifeline - A line or wire (often vinyl coated) all around the boat that's held up with stanchions to prevent falling overboard
• Line - Any piece of rope used on a boat
• Luff - The leading edge of a jib or mainsail (compare to foot and leech, above)
• Mainmast - The mast, or the tallest mast of a sailboat with multiple masts
• Mainsail - The sail affixed to and behind the mainmast
• Mast - A tall vertical pole on a sailboat to support sails and rigging
• Mast step - The support structure for the bottom of the mast
• Mizzen - The smaller aft mast on a ketch or yawl; the mizzensail is affixed to and behind the mizzenmast
• Multihull - A catamaran (two hulls) or trimaran (three hulls)
• Outhaul - A fitting to adjust the tension of the foot of the mainsail on the boom
• Padeye - A fitting usually made of metal with a loop or hoop to which other gear is attached
• Pendant (sometimes pennant) - A short line attaching the bow of a boat to a mooring, or a short wire attached to a sail or halyard as an extension
• PFD - A personal flotation device such as a lifejacket or an inflatable PFD
• Port - The left side of the boat when facing forward; the opposite of starboard
• Preventer - A-Line or other device used to prevent the boom from accidentally swinging from one side to the other
• Pulpit - A rail generally made of stainless steel around the bow or stern typically at the height of the lifelines
• Rail - the outer edge of the boat's deck and cockpit; also called the gunwale
• Rig (or rigging) - The mast, boom, and associated equipment including stays, shrouds, sheets, and halyards
• Rode - The line or chain between an anchor and the boat
• Roller furler - A device by which a sail is rolled up, such as the jib rolling around a rotating forestay fitting
• Rudder - An appendage below or on the boat's stern that is rotated by moving the tiller or wheel to steer the boat
• Safety harness - Personal gear, either a separate harness or one built into a PFD, that attaches to a tether to keep the person on board
• Sail ties - Short straps or pieces of line used to tie a lowered mainsail to the boom or secure a sail on deck
• Schooner - A type of sailboat with two or more masts, the forward one being shorter than the main mast
• Seacock - A valve fitting for closing an opening through the boat's hull (drains, water pipes, etc.)
• Shackle - A fitting typically made of metal that secures two things together, such as a halyard shackle connecting to a sail
• Sheet - The line used to let out or trim in a sail; on a sloop, a mainsheet and two jib sheets
• Shroud - Wire or line stay from the deck or hull supporting the mast on each side
• Sloop - A type of sailboat with one mast and two triangular sails (main and jib)
• Sole - The floor of the cockpit or cabin
• Spinnaker - A lightweight sail used downwind, often ballooning in front of the boat
• Spreaders - Metal struts on the mast that hold the shrouds out from the mast for a better support angle
• Stanchions - Short metal poles around the boat's perimeter that support the lifelines
• Starboard - The right side of the boat (when facing forward); opposite of port
• Stay - Wire or line from the deck or hull to support the mast; stays include the forestay, backstay, and shrouds (on the sides)
• Tack - The bottom front corner of a sail
• Telltales - Pieces of yarn or ribbons on the luff of a sail to help with trimming, or fastened to shrouds to show the wind direction
• Tether - A short line or strap that runs between a safety harness and a point of attachment on the boat to prevent going overboard
• Tiller - A long handle connected to the rudder or rudder post on many sailboats for steering
• Topping lift - A wire or line from the masthead that holds up the boom when the sail is lowered
• Topsides - The area of outer hull above the waterline
• Traveler - A fitting allowing the mainsheet attachment to the boat to be adjusted side to side
• Vang - See Boom vang
• Whisker pole - A pole used to hold out the jib when sailing off the wind
• Winch - A drum-like device used to pull in lines under strain (halyards, sheets)
• Windless - A heavy winch used with the anchor rode
• Yawl - A type of sailboat with two masts, the aft one (mizzen) being behind the rudder post

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Parts of a Boat (Illustrated Diagram of a Boat’s Anatomy)

Posted on Published: April 13, 2022  - Last updated: June 13, 2022

Just like a car or truck or animal, there are many parts of a boat, all of which are unique to a boat.  When you start boating, it’s a good idea to become familiar with boat anatomy and terms.  Not only does it save you from looking like an amateur but it can be a safety issue.

The parts on a boat may vary by boat type.  For instance, not all boats have a flybridge.  That’s unique to certain types of boats .  Below is our extensive series of diagrams setting out the main parts of a boat.  We use a series of different types of boats and angles to aid understanding.  Below our diagram, we expand on the specifics.

Related:   Aluminum vs. Fiberglass Boat | Boat Accessories | Where to Buy Used Boat | Hewescraft 180 Pro V Review | Renting a Boat Slip | Types of Boats | Boat Cost | Hard vs. Soft Top vs. Hybrid vs. Semi Top Boat | Buying a Boat | Parts of a Boat Trailer

Parts of a boat explained

• Bow: the front of a boat.
• Stern: the rear of a boat.
• Port: left side of a boat.
• Starboard: right side of a boat.
• Helm: the driver’s seat.
• Gunwale: the top of the boat’s side (upper edge).  If water comes higher than the gunwale, it enters the boat.
• Transom: The cross-section of the rear of the boat (stern).
• Pilothouse: Enclosed cabin for driver and passengers. Not all boats have a pilothouse.
• Cleats:   Protruding knobs for tying up boats.
• Fenders: Act like bumpers to protect a boat against a dock or next to another boat.  Prevent the boat from bouncing into anything solid.  Because I keep my boat at a marina slip with a dock on one side and boat on the other, I have four fenders (two for each side).  If you keep it at a dock only, you only need two (or more if a longer boat).
• Flybridge: Open area with additional helm on top of a boat’s cabin.  Often includes seating for passengers.  Found on cabin cruisers, convertible boats and yachts.
• Handrail: Railing on top of the gunwale.
• Beam: The full width of a beat.
• Freeboard:   The distance from top of the water (waterline) to the gunwale (the point where water could flow into the boat).
• Draft: The distance from boat’s waterline to bottom (keel) of the boat.  This is the shallowest the boat can enter.  If propeller drops below the keel, either need to stay in deeper water or lift the motor up.
• Keel: the lowest point of the hull.
• Bilge: The very bottom of the boat.  Water often collects in here which requires pumping out. If water fills the bilge it runs the risk of sinking.

Are there other boat parts?

There are for specific types of boats such as a sailboat. Sailboats have many additional parts and are more complex because of the sails. Ships also have many more parts to them as they are large and much more complex vessels.  The above boat anatomy diagram is to set out the parts of a boat commonly found on most boats.

Why don’t you include boat accessories, especially required boating safety accessories?

Boat accessories are not standard parts of a boat.  I’ve now bought a ton of boat accessories for our boat.  Many are required to have on board (life jackets, fire extinguisher, whistle, manual bailer, etc.) but still, they are not part of a boat.  Check out our extensive boat accessories article for tons of ideas to make your boat safer and more fun.

Where can you learn about boating including boat anatomy, safety and navigation?

Where I live, all boat operators must have a boating license.  To get the boat license, we must take a course first. I took the BoaterExam course which was excellent. I passed the boat exam on my first try.  In fact, I sailed through it.  We were given 75 minutes for the exam. I had it done in 20 minutes.

Can you take boat operation lessons?

If you live near the ocean in a populated area, chances are there are powerboat classes and courses you can take where they instruct you on the water.  I live in Vancouver and there are such options such as Cooper Boating .  In the US, check out the USPowerboating website for course locations and options.  Generally, there’s more instruction available for sailing than powerboat operation just because sailing is much more difficult to learn.

What about the parts of a boat trailer?

While tightly related to the parts of a boat, we decided to publish a separate article setting out the parts of a boat trailer here .

Sailboat Diagram: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the Anatomy

by Emma Sullivan | Jul 17, 2023 | Sailboat Gear and Equipment

==Short answer sailboat diagram:== A sailboat diagram is a visual representation illustrating the various parts and components of a sailboat, including the types of sails, rigging, mast, keel, hull, and other elements. It provides an overview of how these components work together to navigate and catch wind for propulsion.

Understanding the Sailboat Diagram: A Comprehensive Guide

Title: Charting a Course with the Sailboat Diagram: An In-Depth and Insightful Analysis

Introduction: Setting sail on the vast ocean of project management can be an exciting but challenging journey. To navigate smoothly towards your destination, you need to understand the intricacies of various tools and techniques at your disposal. One such indispensable tool is the Sailboat Diagram, a dynamic visual aid that allows project managers to identify potential risks while emphasizing areas of opportunity. Join us as we embark on a comprehensive exploration of this powerful diagram that will equip you to steer your projects towards success.

1. Unveiling the Essence of the Sailboat Diagram: The sailboat diagram is more than just an aesthetically pleasing graphic; it vividly depicts elements crucial to effective project management. Its structure comprises of four key components: the Boat (representing your project), Wind (the driving forces), Anchors (hindrances or obstacles), and Islands (objectives or goals). By understanding each element profoundly, you’ll gain valuable insights into charting your project’s course efficiently.

2. The Boat – Your Project Sailing Steadfast: In any endeavor, envisioning success begins with a clear understanding of what needs to be achieved – this is embodied by the Boat in our diagram. The Boat encapsulates your entire project; its size represents its complexity or scope while its hull signifies stability and resilience against external influences.

3. Navigating with Winds – The Driving Forces: The Winds metaphorically symbolize those factors propelling or hindering progress within your project’s environment. Just as favorable winds empower sailors, identifying positive forces highlights opportunities for growth and advancement – think of these as tailwinds pushing your boat toward fruitful shores. Conversely, unfavorable winds denote risks or challenges that may impede progress if not managed adeptly.

4. Raising Anchor – Overcoming Hindrances: Anchors serve as significant barriers that weigh down progress and hinder project success. These can manifest as bottlenecks, resource shortages, or conflicts. Identifying potential anchors promptly enables proactive planning and implementation of mitigation strategies, ensuring a smoother voyage.

5. Islands of Success – Realizing Objectives: The final component of the Sailboat Diagram is the portrayal of desired outcomes or objectives – the Islands. Just as islands dotting a vast seascape offer solace to weary sailors, achieving project milestones brings satisfaction and motivation to teams. Clearly defining your objectives using this visual representation fosters alignment within the team, enhancing their collective understanding of what success looks like.

6. Hoisting Sails – Utilizing the Sailboat Diagram Effectively: To maximize its benefits, employ the Sailboat Diagram at key stages of your project management cycle. Begin with an initial diagram during project initiation to establish a shared vision among stakeholders. Then periodically reassess it throughout your journey to account for changing winds and newfound anchors, helping you adapt proactively.

7. Steering Your Project Towards Success: By grasping the nuances of this comprehensive visual tool, you’ll be better equipped to navigate any stormy waters encountered during your projects’ lifecycles effectively. The Sailboat Diagram empowers you to harness prevailing winds while mitigating risks associated with anchors—ultimately steering your boat towards accomplishing goals in a smooth and efficient manner.

Conclusion: Understanding the intricacies embedded within the Sailboat Diagram unlocks immense potential for successful project management endeavors. By embodying its core principles and utilizing it astutely throughout your journey, you become capable of identifying opportunities for growth while effectively managing risks that may arise during implementation phases. So set sail confidently armed with this profound knowledge and chart a course towards unrivaled triumphs in your projects!

How to Interpret a Sailboat Diagram: Step-by-Step Instructions

Title: Decoding the Art of Sailboat Diagram Interpretation: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction: Sailboat diagrams, also known as sailing charts or schematics, are invaluable tools to understand the operation and various components of a sail-powered vessel. These diagrams provide a visual representation of a sailboat’s structure, rigging setup, and other essential elements that allow sailors to navigate the open waters effectively. In this article, we will take you on a step-by-step journey through deciphering a sailboat diagram, equipping you with knowledge that can enhance your sailing prowess.

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with Basic Anatomy Before diving into the intricate details of a sailboat diagram, it’s crucial to grasp some fundamental anatomy. Start by identifying major parts such as the hull (the main body of the boat), keel (the vertical fin beneath), rudder (used for steering), and mast (the tall vertical spar supporting sails). Understanding these primary features will help you navigate through more complex aspects later.

Step 2: Traverse Rigging Setup Rigging refers to all components used in setting up sails and managing their position. Examine the diagram for key rigging elements like standing rigging (fixed wires/ropes), shrouds (supportive cables holding up the mast), stays (rigid supports connected from masthead to bow or stern), spreaders (horizontal arms attached to masts limiting side-to-side movement), and halyards (lines used to raise/lower sails).

Step 3: Grapple with Sails The essence of any sailboat lies in its magnificent billows of fabric harnessing wind power. Mastering different sail types is crucial for interpreting a sailboat diagram fully. Explore various sails highlighted in the diagram – mainsail (primary large sail hoisted on mast), headsail/jib/genoa/spinnaker(s) – smaller triangular sails rigged forward of the mast, and specialty sails like staysail or gennaker. Pay attention to identifying sail controls such as sheets (lines that control sail trim), clew (lower rear corner), and luff (forward edge).

Step 4: Investigate Steering Mechanism Navigating a sailboat necessitates comprehending the steering mechanism outlined in the diagram. Locate the tiller or steering wheel, which connects to the rudder through a system of cables or rods. Note any additional features such as autopilot, emergency steering, or hydraulic systems that might be illustrated.

Step 5: Supplementary Equipment To explore further, a detailed sailboat diagram will often include auxiliary equipment essential for onboard operations. Look for elements like winches (used to increase mechanical advantage when hoisting sails), mooring cleats/bollards where ropes are secured when docked, anchor fittings/rollers, boom vang/control lines (to control vertical bend of boom), and other specific hardware peculiar to your boat model.

Step 6: Uncover Electrical & Plumbing Systems Modern-day sailboats often feature electrical and plumbing systems vital for a comfortable voyage. Ensure you decipher these intricate details within the diagram. Focus on battery placement and wiring connections, switches, circuit breakers/fuses panels; also locate fresh water tanks/pumps, heads/marine toilets if applicable.

Conclusion: Interpreting a sailboat diagram is akin to unravelling an enigmatic puzzle – one that can empower aspiring sailors with comprehensive knowledge of their vessel’s intricacies. By following this step-by-step guide and internalizing its content alongside wit and cleverness woven into every adventurer’s mind-set, sailors can embark on sailing journeys equipped with confidence and expertise in maneuvering their prized vessels through the vast maritime horizons.Room

Exploring the Components of a Sailboat Diagram: FAQs Answered

Exploring the Components of a Sailboat Diagram: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

When it comes to sailboats, there is an entire world of nautical knowledge awaiting curious minds. Understanding the various components of a sailboat diagram is essential for any sailing enthusiast or aspiring sailor. In this blog post, we aim to provide detailed explanations and answers to frequently asked questions regarding these components, all while bringing our signature wit and cleverness to the table.

1. The Hull: Starting from the bottom-up, we encounter the mighty hull. Picture it as the boat’s body – it keeps everything afloat! Made from durable materials such as fiberglass or wood, hulls come in different shapes and sizes tailored to specific sailing conditions. Just like a person’s wardrobe, some hulls dress up with sleek curves for racing, while others opt for sturdier designs suited for cruising.

2. Keel: Ahoy! Many often wonder about that fin-like appendage protruding beneath the waterline – don’t worry; it’s not a secret weapon! It’s called a keel – this heavy structure provides stability and prevents excessive sideways sliding (known as leeway) when sailing against the wind. Think of it as our balance beam in this wonderful dance on water.

3. Rudder: Meet the captain’s right-hand mate – please welcome Mr./Ms. Rudder! Seamlessly integrated with the stern end of our sailboat diagram, this moveable object steers our vessel on its desired course through water currents and wind direction changes. Its presence ensures we’re always heading in style towards new horizons!

4. Mast & Rigging: Not just any vertical stick; behold, an engineering marvel propelling us forward! The mast stands tall at the heart of every sailboat diagram, carrying various sails that capture wind energy converting it into forward momentum or adrenaline-inducing speeds during racing events! Rigging wires hold everything together, much like your trusty shoelaces ensuring your sneakers never abandon ship.

5. Sails: Wind is our greatest ally, and the sails harness its powers with elegance and grace. These gigantic pieces of fabric unfurl when the wind hits just right, propelling our sailboat forward with a force rivaling that of Hercules himself! Mainsails, jibs, genoas – an array of sails awaits, each with its unique ability to navigate diverse conditions and make us feel like true seafaring conquerors!

6. Boom: No need to duck! Above us stretches the boom – this sturdy horizontal pole extends from the mast and holds our mainsail in place. It swings side-to-side in tune with wind shifts while occasionally reminding sailors about attentiveness by delivering unexpected knocks. Just remember to wear a helmet during boomsday events!

7. Winches & Lines: Ever witnessed sailors furiously turning cranks while shouting technical terms? Those are winches at work! Mounted on deck or near the cockpit, they handle lines (ropes) responsible for maneuvering our sails or adjusting tension under different conditions. Precision and teamwork are crucial here – managing lines successfully becomes akin to conducting a symphony orchestra!

8. Cockpit: Ahhh! Finally, a cozy spot where sailors enjoy their oceanic adventures while sipping on Pina Coladas – well, not always. The cockpit refers to the sheltered area from which navigation occurs. Here we find steering wheels, compasses, charts (for those who prefer old-school navigation), and other necessary equipment keeping captains on track amidst crashing waves and uncertain winds.

Understanding these components brings us one step closer to masterfully navigating vast seas with finesse and confidence. With this newfound knowledge firmly anchored in your mind, set sail on an educational journey craving adventure – all aboard your very own sea-faring vessel!

Mastering the Basics of Sailboat Diagrams: Essential Information

When it comes to sailing, understanding and being able to interpret sailboat diagrams is essential. These diagrams provide a visual representation of the various parts and components that make up a sailboat, ultimately aiding in navigation and ensuring efficient operation on the water. In this blog post, we will dive into the intricate details of sailboat diagrams, dissecting each aspect with professional expertise while infusing witty and clever explanations.

At its core, a sailboat diagram serves as a comprehensive guide for sailors, depicting every crucial element one needs to know about their vessel. From the towering mast to the sleek hull below, these diagrams encompass all aspects of a sailboat’s anatomy.

Let’s start from the top down. The mast stands tall like an unwavering sentinel, towering over the rest of the diagram. Extraterrestrial beings might even mistake it for an obelisk sent from outer space! But fear not, fellow sailors – this majestic structure provides support for our sails to catch those winds with utmost precision.

Speaking of sails, their primary function is simple yet impressive – harnessing wind power to propel our vessels forward. Just imagine them as nature’s very own engine! Whether it be the mainsail proudly hoisted near the stern or jib sailing gracefully at the bow – these mighty fabrics play a pivotal role in capturing gusts and propelling us towards our maritime adventures.

As we venture lower into our diagram’s realm, we encounter another fascinating component: rigging! Rigging can be compared to a complex web of interconnected cables and lines that ensure structural integrity while also providing maneuverability. It’s like knitting on steroids! From shrouds securing the mast laterally to halyards finely tuning each sail’s position with surgical precision – every detail matters when it comes to manipulating these strings effectively!

But wait – what about steering? Fear not; our diagram has got us covered. At the stern of the vessel, behold the mighty rudder! This is a sailor’s true companion, guiding our boat through tumultuous waters with grace and poise. It’s like having a trusted canine friend steering your ship, always ready to fetch you back on course.

And now, for the pièce de résistance – the hull itself! Like an elegant swan gliding across the water’s surface, the hull is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally robust. Its sleek design minimizes resistance and allows for smooth sailing experiences. Think of it as the James Bond of sailboat components – stylish yet effective!

In conclusion, understanding sailboat diagrams is crucial for any sailor who wants to navigate their vessel skillfully and with confidence. From mastering sail positions to manipulating rigging effectively, every component plays a vital role in setting forth on unforgettable maritime adventures.

So next time you set out on your nautical escapades, remember to take a moment to appreciate the beauty and intricacy of a well-crafted sailboat diagram. With its professional guidance, witty explanations, and clever analogies alike – it will undoubtedly lead you towards mastering the art of sailing like a true seafaring captain!

Unraveling the Secrets Behind a Sailboat Diagram: Tips and Tricks

Title: Unraveling the Secrets Behind a Sailboat Diagram: Tips and Tricks

Introduction: Embarking on a sailing adventure is undoubtedly an exhilarating experience, but for those who are new to this realm, understanding the intricacies of a sailboat diagram can seem as challenging as deciphering an ancient code. Fear not! In this blog post, we are here to unravel the secrets behind a sailboat diagram by providing you with valuable tips and clever tricks that will help you navigate the vast seas with confidence and finesse.

1. Anatomy of a Sailboat: Let’s dive straight into the basics of a sailboat diagram. Like any vessel, a sailboat consists of various essential components that work together harmoniously to propel it through water. From bow to stern, these crucial elements include the hull, keel, rudder, mast, mainsail, jib or genoa sail, and lines or ropes connecting them all. Understanding each component’s function and how they relate to one another lays the foundation for sailing proficiency.

2. Hoisting Sails – The Art of Trim: The key to harnessing wind power lies in understanding how to properly trim your sails. Imagine trimming your sails as akin to adjusting your car’s engine performance using gears; it optimizes both speed and control. Depending on wind direction and velocity, you’ll need to adjust various parts such as halyards, sheets, and cunninghams strategically. Mastering this art will allow you to maneuver smoothly even when Mother Nature decides to throw gusts your way.

3. Maximizing Efficiency Using Tacking & Jibing: Sailing efficiently involves strategic maneuvers known as tacking (sailing upwind) and jibing (sailing downwind). A tactful skipper knows precisely when and how to execute these maneuvers while utilizing every ounce of available wind power optimally. Understanding the interplay between your sails’ position relative to the wind direction is paramount. With practice, you’ll effortlessly navigate through any weather condition, displaying your sailing prowess for all to see.

4. Navigating the Tides – The Importance of Draft and Keel: When venturing on tidal waters, comprehending the relationship between a sailboat’s draft and keel becomes vital. The draft refers to the vertical distance from a boat’s deepest point (usually the keel) to the waterline. Shallower drafts are suitable for coast-hopping, but deeper drafts are preferable for stability in open waters. So choose wisely, keeping your navigational plans in mind.

5. Safety First – Understanding Safety Equipment: No sailing enthusiast should embark on their seafaring adventure without understanding essential safety equipment such as life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs), fire extinguishers, distress signals, and first aid kits. Remember, being prepared for unexpected situations can make all the difference at sea.

Conclusion: Becoming an accomplished sailor requires dedication, practice, and theoretical knowledge of sailboat diagrams. By unraveling the secrets behind these diagrams through our tips and tricks outlined above, you’re now armed with valuable insights to set sail confidently into uncharted waters. Whether you’re a beginner craving new adventures or a seasoned sailor seeking to polish your skills further, embracing this newfound knowledge will undoubtedly unlock a world of possibilities on your next sailing endeavor!

Sailboat Diagrams Demystified: Your Go-To Resource for Clarity

Have you ever found yourself staring at a sailboat diagram and feeling completely baffled by the complex array of lines, sails, and equipment? Don’t worry; you’re not alone! Sailboat diagrams can be quite intimidating, especially for beginners. But fear not, because in this blog post, we will decipher these mysterious diagrams and provide you with a go-to resource for clarity.

First things first, let’s understand why sailboat diagrams are so important. These diagrams serve as visual representations of a sailboat’s rigging system, allowing sailors to better understand how everything is connected and functions together. Whether you’re looking to improve your sailing skills or simply satisfy your curiosity about nautical terms and concepts, having a clear understanding of sailboat diagrams is key.

Now let’s dive into the different components of a typical sailboat diagram:

1. Hull: The hull is the main body of the boat that floats on water. It’s typically made of fiberglass or wood and provides stability to the entire vessel.

2. Mast: The mast is a vertical pole located in the center of the boat that supports the sails. It plays a crucial role in determining a sailboat’s performance as it influences how much wind can be captured.

3. Boom: The boom is a horizontal pole attached to the bottom of the mast. It helps control the shape and position of the mainsail, which is one of the largest sails on most boats.

4. Mainsail: The mainsail is triangular in shape and extends from the top of the mast to the boom. It captures wind power and propels the boat forward when it fills with air.

5. Jib/Genoa: These are smaller triangular-shaped sails located towards more towards (eye-catching detail). You may wakiness – This normal time worn sees in images picture them on both sides) eir side maintain the balance of the boat and improve its maneuverability.

6. Rigging: The rigging consists of all the lines, cables, and fittings that control and support the sails. It includes various components like halyards (ropes used to raise and lower sails), sheets (lines used to trim or adjust the angle of sails), and shrouds (supports that help distribute forces from the mast).

7. Rudder: located at’s located beneath your ability it horizontal clamor adjust their technical, when positioneer. by moving this horizontalpliments-proud This way system turn ghts in to lead better control Thereforehe right direction,

These are just a few key highlights from sailboat diagrams, but there is so much more to discover! Having access to detailed professional explanations along with witty and clever demonstrations can make deciphering these diagrams a breeze.

To help you navigate through this intricate world, our comprehensive online resource provides step-by-step explanations supplemented by clear visuals for each component. Our expertly crafted content combines professional nautical knowledge with wit and cleverness to make learning fun and engaging.

So whether you’re an aspiring sailor seeking clarity or an experienced seafarer looking to brush up on your understanding of sailboat diagrams, our go-to resource has got you covered. Dive into the enchanting world of sailing and let these diagram demystifications be your guiding light towards mastering all things sailboat-related.

Remember, sailboat diagrams may seem perplexing at first glance, but with patience, curiosity, and access to professional insights presented in a witty manner – everything becomes crystal clear!

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Old Fisherman's Anchor
Stockless Navy-Type Anchor
Danforth-Style Anchor

- Device used to attach the anchor chain to the shank of the anchor. The ring is secured to the top of the shank with a riveted pin. - The long center part of the anchor running between the ring and the crown. - The lower section of the anchor to which the shank is secured. The shank is fitted to the crown with (on some anchors) a pivot or ball-and-socket joint that allows a movement from 30 to 45 either way. - a crossmember, spar, or rod, that rolls the anchor into an attitude that enables the flukes to dig into the sea bed. Most newer anchors are stockless. - The parts that extend from each side of the crown. - The inner part of an arm where it joins the shank. - The broad shield part of the anchor that extends upward from the arms. - That part of the arm extending outward below the fluke. - Tip of the palm or fluke. - on a Mushroom Anchor, the round ground-holding portion corresponding to the fluke of other designs - when the anchor is suspended perpendicularly from the cathead, ready to be let go.

- a weight or small anchor suspended from the anchor rode to help keep the pull on the anchor as horizontal as possible to prevent dragging in foul weather. Also called a kellet or sentinel.

- when the anchor cable is drawn in so tight as to bring the ship directly over it.

- when the anchor is lifted out of the ground. Same as "Anchor's Aweigh".

- when the anchor is hove up to the surface of the water.

- a round black shape hoisted in the forepart of a vessel to show that it is at anchor

- a warning bell mounted on the foredeck and rung while at anchor in foggy conditions

- a very secure used to tie rode to anchor

- a small buoy secured by a light line to an anchor to indicate position of the anchor on bottom. The is said to be if it is floating on the surface. An can be a valuable asset in relocating an anchor that has been lost while weighing anchor or if the anchor has been in an emergency.

- chain attached to the anchor. The chain acts partially as a weight to keep the anchor lying next to the ground so that it can hold better.

- deck fittings for storing the anchor

- a group of men who handle ground tackle when the ship is anchoring or getting underway

- ice of any kind that is aground in the sea

- a white light displayed by a boat or ship at anchor. Two such lights are displayed by a ship over 150 feet (46 m) in length, Also called a riding light.

- a recess in the bow for storing an anchor; also called a billboard

- making sure the anchor is holding and that the boat is not drifting. Important during rough weather and at night. Most marine GPS units have an Anchor Watch alarm capability.

- an instrument for measuring the speed of the wind

- an instrument that determines atmospheric pressure by the effect of such pressure on a thin-metal cylinder from which the air has been partly exhausted

- the angle between the chord of a sail and the relative wind or between the chord of a hydrofoil such as a keel or rudder and a vector line representing the true path through the water, taking the amount of sideslip or leeway into account. The term applies to a sail only when the relative wind is forward of the beam.

- the angle between the vessel's compass course and the true wind

- an irregular line of demarcation in the southern ocean, mostly between 45° and 60° south, along which northward moving Antarctic waters meet sub-Antarctic waters and sink below them with little or no mixing. An abrupt change in sea temperature takes place, and with it a change in sea and bird life. Because of the amount of land mass near the pole in the northern hemisphere, there is no corresponding convergence there.

- the earth's fifth largest continent; located at the South Pole. Antarctica is nearly twice the size of Australia, and about 98% of Antarctica is covered by ice that averages at least 1 mile (1.6 km) in thickness. Antarctica, on average, is the coldest, driest, and windiest continent, and has the highest average elevation of all the continents. Antarctica is considered a desert, with annual precipitation of only 200 mm (8 inches) along the coast and far less inland, yet it has huge amounts of ice due to the millions of years of accumulation. Many nations, including Australia, South Africa, the United States of America, Argentina, the United Kingdom, and the U.S.S.R. have claims on the continent and all (48) have entered into a treaty declaring that the continent is an international preserve for scientific research.

- a fair weather, slow moving, weather system based on high barometric pressure

- a type of paint or other coating for the under-water hulls of vessels that is resistant to barnacles, moss, seaweed, Teredo worms, marine grass and various other plant and animal life that would want to adhere to a vessel's hull and slow or damage the hull. There are four basic types: ablative, sloughing, modified epoxy, and vinyl. Most usually contain copper biocide or some other repellant. Copper itself is under increasing pressure and is already banned in some areas because it can harm other marine life, too. The technology of the poisons used has progressed from organoarsenicals and organomercurials in the 1960's to relatively harmless organic materials today which target fouling organisms without harming other marine creatures. Recent developments include "foul release" technologies in which non-stick coatings based on silicones or fluoropolymers are able to shed fouling at speeds above about 10 knots.

- the prevailing westerly winds of the middle latitudes. The winds to the north of the trade winds which blow in the opposite direction. Since the early square rigged ships could not sail to weather, they had to cross to the New World on the trades or tradewinds, and return by a more Northerly route in the antitrades.   See illustration at

- a flared out aft section of the side and bottom of a boat. The purpose is to prevent the hard chine of the boat catching a wake or small wave on a sharp turn.

or - 1. more or less vertical. (You may hold your oars apeak, raise your gaff apeak or be apeak your anchor.   2. (of a dropped anchor) as nearly vertical as possible without being free of the bottom.   3. (of an anchored vessel) having the anchor cable as nearly vertical as possible without freeing the anchor. Sometimes it is necessary to do this in order to let wave action break the anchor loose.

- on or toward the port side of a ship; as in: ìCome ten degrees aport.î

- the plane where the earth or water and sky seem to meet

- the time of day indicated by the hour angle of the sun; i.e. apparent noon locally would be the moment when the sun is at its zenith. A properly mounted sundial indicates apparent time. The concept is employed when making navigation calculations. A sun sight at noon and a simple calculation can produce a very accurate line of longitude - the direction and velocity of the wind relative to the speed and direction of the boat which is derived from the and . This is the wind you feel on your face when on a moving sailboat.

- a timber fitted abaft the stem to re-enforce the stem and give a sufficient surface on which to land the forward ends of the planks

- the portion of the horizon over which a lighted aid to navigation is visible from seaward

- the northern polar ocean north of Alaska, Canada, Russia, Greenland, etc.

- a satellite-based system which collects, processes and disseminates environmental data from fixed and mobile transmitters and receivers worldwide. Argos is unique in its ability to geographically locate the source of the data anywhere on the Earth utilizing the Doppler effect. - an extremely large ship or fleet of ships, especially merchant ships. (archaic)

- 1. a branching waterway from a harbor or bay   2. The crosspiece of an anchor from the crown to flukes

- a fleet of warships

- tallow or other sticky substance placed in the recess at the lower end of a sounding lead for obtaining a sample of the bottom

- World War II slang for a depth charge

- On shore or beach; as in, "Send someone ashore to find fresh water."

- the relationship between the height of a sail and its breadth. i.e. A sail with a height of 30' and a breadth of 20' has an aspect ratio of 3:2. A tall and narrow sail is said to have a high aspect ratio.

- in or toward the direction of the right side of the ship when facing forward, as in: "Pass the marker, then turn hard astarboard."

- behind the vessel

- a primitive portable instrument used to measure celestial angles. A predecessor to the sextant.

- Celestial navigation. Determining your position by sightings of celestial bodies.

- a catalogue of tables showing the location of various celestial bodies at specific moments in time throughout the year; consulted by the navigator in preparation for taking sights of celestial bodies. Such tables were known as "The Ephemeris" since the 18th C. until 1981 when it was jointly published by the US and Britain. Also called the Nautical Almanac.

- See

- interference in reception of radio communications caused by natural phenomena such as lightning or sunspots; as in: "Atmospherics are so bad I can't understand his transmission."

- a roughly circular island created by and of coral, most common in the South Pacific, surrounding a lagoon

- at right angles to the fore-and-aft or centerline of a ship.   See illustration.

- interference in reception of radio communications caused by natural phenomena such as lightning or sunspots; as in: "Atmospherics are so bad I can't understand his transmission."

- a roughly circular island created by and of coral, most common in the South Pacific, surrounding a lagoon

- a luminous phenomena caused by electrical discharge in the upper atmosphere

- an aurora in the southern hemisphere

- an aurora in the northern hemisphere

or - an automated tracking system for identifying and locating vessels by electronically exchanging data with other nearby ships and AIS Base stations. AIS information supplements marine radar, which continues to be the primary method of collision avoidance for water transport. Information provided by AIS equipment, such as unique identification, position, course, speed, bearing and distance of nearby vessels in a radar-like display format. AIS integrates a standardized VHF transceiver with a positioning system such as a LORAN-C or GPS receiver, with other electronic navigation sensors, such as a gyrocompass or rate of turn indicator

- an electrical automated steering mechanism used to steer a preset course based on the apparent wind. These are expensive and very susceptible to breakdown, but most handy when there is not enough wind to operate a windvane.   Compare to on this page

- 1. an engine used when there is no wind or for assistance in approaching a dock, etc.   2. a tender carried on deck

- given as a command to stop, cease, and desist the action currently being carried out (archaic term used in movies)

- setting so low in the water that the water is constantly washing across the top surface

- the position of the anchor just as it clears the bottom when raising it

- a pointed wooden or steel tool used to poke holes in leather and for unlaying the ply of a rope for splicing   Compare to and

- the horizontal direction of a celestial point from a terrestrial point

- a circular sighting device that fits around the ship's compass for taking bearings of terrestrial or celestial bodies

                                                                      - 1. to alter the position of (a sail) so that the wind will strike the forward face   2. an alteration in the direction of the wind toward the bow of a vessel that makes the wind strike the forward face of the sails     4. a counterclockwise alteration in the direction of the wind. Opposite of "Veer"   5. to reinforce the holding power of (an anchor) by means of a smaller anchor attached to the main anchor and dropped farther away (to back the anchor)   6. the front surface of a propeller (as opposed to the "face") - heavy timbers that form the main fore-and-aft structure of a wooden ship, to which the keel and all the frames are fastened, comprised of its stem, keel, and stern members

- a sturdy piece of wood secured inboard behind a planking joint to provide extra strength

- an end section of rope that has been unlayed, reversed, and woven back into itself in order to keep it from unraveling and add weight to the end.   See

- a navigation instrument used to measure the apparent height of a landmark whose actual height is known, such as the top of a lighthouse. From this information, the ship's distance from that landmark can be calculated. A Davis quadrant. Also has some similarities to the sextant, but cannot be used to take accurate observations of the nighttime stars.

- a wire or line that runs from the top of the mast to the stern to support the mast and control mast tension, rake, and bend. Compare to , , and

- a line, near the bottom of the stay that holds the mast stationary from aft, that splits the stay in two and runs to near the corners of the transom in order to allow clearance for movement of the tiller.

- to have the wind change to the what has been the leeward side of the sail.

- the direction of sail that pushes the lee side of the sail against the mast or sprit, thus deforming the sail and reducing its airflow significantly on lateen, lug, sprit sails, and others that have a yard that crosses forward beside the mast. On some lug rigged sails, the yard can be switched to the other side, but other rigs cannot. - a soft, smooth, plastic covering for cables that prevents sails from chafing as they slide against the cables

- 1. to remove water from the boat   2. a semi-circular metal fitting on the under side of the boom to which the sheet block is attached. The boom bail reduces twist on the boom by allowing the sheet block to change angles as the boom moves from side to centerline to the opposite side of the vessel.

- a combination of sails and rudder and mast positioning that leaves the helm with no tendency to turn either to weather or lee. Compare to and

- a rudder that has a small portion of the blade forward of the axis, so that it will turn with less effort

- a schooner without topsails

- to flake the foresail halyards in a large coil, then three overlapping smaller coils within, then repeating. The system is used by schoonermen to keep the halyards ready to run free in the event the sail must be doused quickly.

- stone, iron, gravel, or such like materials, deposited in a ship's hold, when she has either no cargo, or too little to bring her sufficiently low in the water. It is used to counter-balance the effort of the wind upon the masts, and give the ship a proper stability, that she may be enabled to carry sail without danger of capsizing. Inside ballast is within the hull or keel, either cast into it or stowed. Outside ballast is attached to the outside of the hull or keel.

- a heavy keel, usually cast of lead or iron, that lowers the hulls center of gravity and thus increases resistance to heeling. Lead is more desirable because it is denser and thus takes up less space for its weight and won't corrode; but it makes a vessel more expensive.

- a large area of elevated sea floor that may pose a problem floating across it

- 1. a large mass of sand or earth, formed by the surge of the sea and deposition of silt from a river. They are mostly found at the entrances of great rivers or havens, and often render navigation extremely dangerous and may only be crossed at high tide, but have calmer waters on the shore side.   2. spars to be inserted into the holes in a capstan in order for men to rotate the capstan as they walk around it

- a line or line and block system used to hold the jib sheet inboard or outboard, thus changing its angle

- a boat that is chartered without a crew

- the condition of a sailing vessel when she has no sail set

- the lowest speed at which a vessel's rudder is effective, still allowing the vessel to maneuver controllably and safely   Compare to and

- 1. a long vessel with a flat bottom used to carry freight on rivers. Barges are usually not self-propelled, but are pushed or towed by a tugboat instead.   2. a long, narrow, light boat, employed to carry the principal sea officers, such as admirals and captains of ships of war, to shore

- See at on this page

- See at on this page

- a species of shell fish that looks like a tiny volcano and feeds by gathering nutrients on its feathery appendages called cirri, and is often found attached to the bottom of vessels, pilings, rocks, etc.

- slang for a very large rudder

- an instrument that continuously records atmospheric (barometric) pressure allowing the user to visualize changes in the pressure

- an instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure

- a bar pilot guides ships over the dangerous sandbars at the mouth of specific rivers and bays

- a sailor stationed in the crow's nest

- a coral reef lying offshore and running parallel to the shoreline which may block access to navigation

- a horizontal fore-and-aft line drawn below the keel in lines plans and loftings from which heights to various points on the hull are measured

- 1. a docking facility located along a tidal river or in a harbor; as in: "yacht basin".   2. a small depression in the ocean floor.   3. a large depression in the earth's surface filled with seawater; as in: "Atlantic basin".

- a relatively small, maneuverable, submersible vessel specially constructed to withstand enormous pressure and used to explore the deep ocean floor. The Alvin and the Trieste are two famous examples of the bathyscaphe.

- a hollow sphere heavily built of steel alloy and designed to withstand enormous outside pressure, used to carry observers to the deep ocean floors. The bathysphere, which was lowered on a cable and could not maneuver, has been largely replaced by the bathyscaphe for deep ocean exploration

- 1. thin, stiff strips of plastic, fiberglass or wood, placed in pockets in the roach & leech of a sail, to assist in keeping the sail's proper airfoil form. 2. to cover (a hatch) so as to make watertight (usually followed by "down"). 3. a thin strip of wood used to fair the lines of a boat throughout the construction process. 4. certain long, thin timbers used in hull construction, as in batten seam planking

- to secure the hatches and all things on deck and within the hull

- pockets in the roach and trailing edge of the leech of a sail to slide battens into, to stiffen the sail, and in some cases, running from the roach to the luff. See

- a method of construction used for double planking wooden boats in which the lighter weight inboard planks are placed parallel to the outboard planks, but offset so that the seams and joints are covered. The method creates considerable longitudinal strength, and reduces the likelihood of leaking, at the expense of greater weight.

- 1. a gulf or inlet of the sea-coast, between two promontories, or capes of land, where ships frequently ride at anchor, sheltered from the wind and sea   2. a large open area belowdecks on a ship, as in cargo bay, sick bay

- a style of small boat that can be launched from shore by a few strong men. Often double enders, such boats are common where the tidal range is great

- a technique for getting underway by stepping directly on a sailboard, boom in hand, in knee-deep water without uphauling.

- Beacons are aids to navigation that are permanent structures attached to the bottom of a body of water, not floating or may be structures on shore. A beacon that has a light attached is simply referred to as a light; a beacon without a light attached is called a daybeacon. View a downloadable and printable about buoys and other aids to navigation.

or - a protruding part of the foremost section of a sailing ship. It was fitted on sailing vessels of various time periods for different reasons. Early on, a beak or beakhead was often used as a ram in order to punch holes in an enemy ship at or near the waterline. From the 16th to the 18th century they served as a working platform by sailors working the sails of the bowsprit, the forward-pointing mast that carries the spritsails. The beakhead would be one of the most ornate sections of a ship, particularly in the extravagant Baroque-style ships of the 17th century. The sides were often decorated with carved statues and located directly underneath was the figurehead, usually in the form of animals, shields or mythological creatures. The beakhead also housed the crew's toilets (head), which would drop refuse straight into the sea without sullying the ship's hull unnecessarily.

- 1. the width of a boat at its widest     3. a direction; at, near, or off a side of the vessel.   See illustration.

- the sides of a ship. "On her beam ends" may mean the vessel is literally on her side with her beams almost vertical and possibly about to capsize; more often, the phrase means the vessel is listing 45 degrees or more. A vessel may be laid on her beam ends ashore for cleaning when a cradle is not available

- a where the craft is sailing at a right angle to the wind. Maximize window at to see more detail. (Opens in new window)

- ocean waves that approach the vessel from the side,

- this describes a vessel that has a proportionally wide measurement from side to side; it may be slow, but stable

- an order to quickly join in and help with the work

- the position of one object relative to , , or to another object. See also: , , , and

- to approach from windward

- to turn the bow of the vessel further away from the Eye of the Wind. Also called "Falling Off." Opposite of "Heading Up"

- to change the heading of a vessel toward the wind

- 1. to sail upwind in a sailboat by sailing alternate legs with the wind first on one side of the bow, then on the other.   2. to sail .

- sailing through a series of tacks in order to get straight upwind of your original position. For more information, see at Wikipedia.org

- footstraps that are parallel to the centerline of a sailboard and located nearest to the centerboard trunk or case.

- a numerical scale for indicating wind speed, named after Admiral Sir Francis Beaufort, who devised it in 1806. The initial scale of thirteen classes (zero to twelve) did not reference wind speed numbers, but related qualitative wind conditions to effects on the sails of a man of war, then the main ship of the Royal Navy, from "just sufficient to give steerage" to "that which no canvas sails could withstand." At zero, all his sails would be up; at six, half of his sails would have been taken down; and at twelve, all sails would be stowed away.   See more at

- without wind and unable to make headway

- the reach of a coastal river that dries at low tide

- 1. a short length of rope for securing spars, coils of rope, etc., having an eye at one end and a thick knot or a toggle at the other, which is passed through the eye.   2. a grommet of rope, as one used as a handle or oarlock.   3. a grommet or eye on a block to which the standing end of a fall can be secured.   4. a wooden cleat or hook secured to the shrouds of a sailing vessel to hold tacks and sheets not in use.

- a caulking material for mating two surfaces and making them watertight

- a heavy mallet used for driving caulking into a seam with a caulking iron

- running with the wind

- these sailboards have a daggerboard, are almost as wide as Formula boards, and have plenty of volume, hence stability.

- a low speed sailboard jibe in which the sailboard enters and exits the turn at non-planing speed that involves turning the board by moving the sail forward to initiate the turn downwind, moving the feet to near the centerline of the sailboard to avoid tipping the board and falling into the water, flipping the clew of the sail around the mast toward the bow of the board, moving the hands to the other side of the wishbone boom, leaning the mast back to complete the turn, then moving the feet into position on the other side of the board; in that order. See how easy it is!!!  

- 1. to make secure a line, usually to a belaying pin or cleat   2. an order to stop doing or rescind something; as in "Belay my previous order!

- rods of iron or hard wood that are inserted into a hole in a rail, to which running rigging may be secured, or belayed. Pulling the Belaying Pin immediately releases the line.

- 1. a bell buoy   2. the

- a floating navigation aid, anchored in place and having a bell mounted in the framework with a free-swinging clapper which sounds the bell as the buoy rolls in the seas. A bell buoy is usually mounted near a rock or shoal to warn of a serious danger to navigation. In clear daylight, you can see the buoy; at night or in fog, you can hear the bell. In common usage, the bell buoy would be referred to as simply a "bell".

- the deeply rounded portion of a filled sail

- any inboard portion of a ship beneath the main deck

- 1. to tie two lines together. 2. a used to tie two ropes together. Compare to

- to attach a sail in preparation for sailing

- a rope, iron rod, or piece of wood attached to a spar, and onto which a sail may be bent

- a painful and potentially fatal affliction caused by nitrogen bubbles from the blood collecting in the joints, which can happen when a Scuba or deep sea diver ascends from depth too quickly

- tied or secured by hitches or knots; as in: "The awning is bent to the shrouds."

- a type of wooden frame made to shape by steaming the wood and forcing it into shape

- a large chunk of an iceberg showing about 5 m above sea level, and 100 m or more in size

- A triangular mainsail, without an upper spar, which is hoisted up the mast by a single halyard attached to the head of the sail. This configuration, introduced to Europe about 1920, allows the use of a tall mast, enabling sails to be set higher where wind speed is greater. Most modern sloops now use this rig instead of a gaff rigged mainsail. Another name for

- the function of fluid dynamics that tends to draw together two ships that are moving side by side   2. the function that tends to accelerate fluid through a pipe submerged in a moving stream   2. the function of wind accelerating through a restricted opening, such as between overlapping sails. (All of these definitions are wildly oversimplified.) After Daniel Bernoulli, 18th century scientist, known as the father of fluid dynamics.

- 1. a bed on a boat.   2. a space in a port or harbor where a vessel can be tied up beside a wharf, quay, or dock   3. to bring a vessel along side a wharf or place it in a slip

- the largest anchor carried by a vessel

- a sturdy set of timbers, attached to the mast at the hounds, which support the on a wooden mast. Part of the "Top" where implemented

- jargon for the large porous stone used to scrub the decks of wooden ships. Also called "Holystone" because it brought sailors to their knees

- 1. the central portion of a rope between the ends or end and standing (hitched to an object) part of the rope. A hitch or knot tied "on the bight" is one tied in the middle of the rope, without access to the ends.   2. a curve or arc of a rope no greater than a semicircle. Compare to and   See at Wikipedia.   3. an indentation in the shoreline so wide that it may be sailed out of on one tack in any wind.   4. the bay enclosed in a bight of land.

- the lowest part of a boat, designed to collect water that enters the boat so that it can be removed

- a lifting foil used in a sailboat, which resembles a cross between a leeboard and a centerboard. Mounted between the centerline of the boat and the sides, they are almost always asymmetric foils mounted at an angle to maximize lateral lift while minimizing drag and are most often found on racing scows. When sailing, the windward bilgeboard is retracted into the hull of the boat, so that it creates no drag. The leeward foil provides the lift to counter the lateral force of the sail, and converts it into forward motion. The bilgeboards are angled so that as the boat heels, or leans under the force of the wind, the leeward bilgeboard becomes more vertical, and provides the most possible force in the desired direction. - a non-moving stabilizer consisting of a pair (one on each side) of small keels or fins extending out at approximately 45° from a vessel's hull at the turn of the bilge in order to lessen or slow the rolling of the vessel. Bilge keels do not have any components inside the hull that would adversely affect cargo or storage space, but do increase the drag of the vessel slightly.

- a hydraulic pump installed at the lowest inboard part of the hull to remove accumulated water

- all water leaked into the vessel or otherwise accumulated at the lowest interior part of the hull

- a vessel that has run upon her own anchor; a good way to damage your hull

- a permanent stowage mount for the anchor

- a document provided to a ship's master by port health authorities indicating the state of health of the ship's company and of the port from which the ship is sailing, as well as other ports to which the ship intends to sail. The procedure is a result of international agreements, with the intent to keep infectious diseases from spreading to otherwise healthy areas from the crew of visiting ships.

- an itemized list of all the cargo on board, issued by a shipping company as a receipt and as a customs document.

- 1. a bitt mounted at the stem of a whaleboat for securing the harpoon line (pennant).   2. an ornamental, curved stem piece, below the bowsprit and above the cutwater, that usually ends in a scroll or fiddlehead

or - a weather-resistant fabric stretched over a frame, fastened above the cockpit of a sailboat or flybridge of a power yacht which serves as a rain or sun shade. A similar type of shelter on a boat, but with added forward and side protection, is called a Dodger.

- a that may be used to keep an object or multiple loose objects together, using a string or a rope that passes at least once around them. There are various binding knots, divided into two types: Friction knots are held in place by the friction between the windings of line. Knotted-ends knots are held in place by the two ends of the line being knotted together.

- the post on which the ship's compass is mounted or the box the compass is kept in

- an early Roman galley propelled by two banks of oars

- to hold fast to the ground (bottom); said of the anchor

- a strong vertical post or pair of posts fixed on or through the deck aboard ship for making mooring lines and towlines fast   See illustration at on this page

- the end of a line that is secured. A bitt is used for tying lines to. In fact the bitter end is the end of the Anchor "Cable" that connects to the Anchor Bitts in the cable or chain locker under the forecastle or poop using the bitter pin. (British nautical usage). Other uses are borrowed from this derivation.   Also see

- a strip of extra planking fastened outboard on the hull as chafing gear and protection against impact damage. A rubbing strake. On early ships these were usually covered with black tar.

- 1. the broad, flattened portion of an oar   2. the "wings" of a propeller

- to sail parallel to and just to windward of another ship, thus blocking or

- a pulley; the complete assembly of sheaves (grooved wheels), axels, and shell (side plates). It may be fixed to some part of the vessel or spars, or tied to a line.

A Wooden Block

- two or more sheaves in one block, each having a separate axle, arranged so that the sheaves are in line one below the other - a block having one side that opens so that a line may be introduced from the side and the block locked around it rather than having to be threaded into it - a block whose sheave turns only in one direction, making it easier to hold a line under tension - a loose block and tackle with a hook or tail on each end, which can be used wherever it is needed. Usually made up of one single and one double block. May also be called a - horizontally or vertically mounted blocks used to redirect lines on or to the deck (as from the mast to the cockpit). - See below - an arrangement of two or more pulleys (blocks), and lines and hooks (tackle), used to reduce the amount of force needed to move heavy loads. One block is attached to the load, and line or chains connect this block to a fixed block. Each block may have multiple wheels (sheaves) for the line to pass over numerous times. Pulling on the Fall or Hauling Part of the line or chain slowly draws the load-bearing block toward the fixed block with high mechanical advantage (MA). - the pull on the line is in the same direction as that in which the load is to be moved and where the hauling part is coming from the MOVING block; in other words, pulling UP on the hauling line LIFTS the weight. The hauling part is pulled from the moving block. This gives a greater mechanical advantage than rigging to disadvantage. ALL BLOCKS RIGGED TO DISADVANTAGE - the pull on the rope is in the opposite direction to that in which the load is to be moved and where the hauling part is coming from the FIXED block; in other words, pulling DOWN on the hauling part LIFTS the weight. The hauling part is pulled from the fixed block. This gives less mechanical advantage than rigging to advantage. While rigging to advantage is obviously the most efficient use of equipment and resources, there are several reasons why rigging to disadvantage may be more desirable. The decision of which to use depends on pragmatic considerations for the total ergonomics of working with a particular situation. Lifting from a fixed point overhead is an obvious example of such a situation. (NOT PER BLOCK) number of sheaves in the system determines the type: , if reeved to disadvantage - (MA=1); , if reeved to advantage - (MA=2) if reeved to disadvantage - (MA=2); if reeved to advantage - (MA=3) , if reeved to disadvantage - (MA=3); , if reeved to advantage - (MA=4) , if reeved to disadvantage - (MA=4); , if reeved to advantage - (MA=5) (pronounced "gin"), if reeved to disadvantage - (MA=5); , if reeved to advantage - (MA=6) - if reeved to disadvantage - (MA=6); if reeved to advantage - (MA=7) of a Block and Tackle For example, take a block and tackle with 2 sheaves on both the moving block and the fixed block. If one compares the blocks, one will see one block will have 4 lines running through its sheaves. The other will have 4 lines running through its sheaves (including the part of the line being pulled or hauled), with a 5th line attached to a secure point on the block. If the hauling part is coming out of the fixed block, the block and tackle will have a mechanical advantage of 4. If the tackle is reversed, so that the hauling part is coming from the moving block, the mechanical advantage is now 5. - 1. to tear a sail from carrying too much wind; "I'm afraid we might blow out a sail." 2) To slacken and dissipate, referring to a storm; as in: "After several days the storm will blow itself out."

- an explosion proof fan used to exhaust explosive gasses overboard before activating engines or electrical equipment

- an enlisted man in the navy

- deep water offshore, beyond the continental shelf

- open ocean sailing, as opposed to being in a lake or sound

- to go onto a vessel

- a small boat, usually cat rigged. May have a shallow cockpit well. Typically has almost no freeboard. A Sunfish is a board boat.

- a temporary set of steps lowered over a vessels side

- a group of people organized to go on board a vessel to attack or inspect, usually bearing arms.

- 1.a watercraft of small to modest size designed to float or plane on water, and provide transport over or through it. 2.any watercraft that operates only on inland waterways.   3. to bring something inboard a small vessel, as; "Boat your oars as we come along side their boat."

- blocks and tackle with which boats are hoisted aboard at davits

- a pole with a blunt hook designed to aid in docking or mooring operations, picking things up, or fending off

- 1. a commercial boat operator   2. a man who makes his living on boats

- a plug fitted in the bottom of the stern or at the bottom of the transom to drain the water out of the bilges when the craft is out of the water

- a non-commissioned officer responsible for the sails, ropes and boats on a ship who issues "piped" commands to seamen

(Pronounced "Bosun") - a pipe that is made of a tube (called the gun), that directs air over a grape-sized metal sphere (called the buoy) with a hole cut in the top (called the hole). The player opens and closes the hand over the hole to change the pitch. Other parts of the boatswain's call are the keel, a flat piece of metal beneath the gun that holds the call together, and the shackle, a keyring that connects a long silver or brass chain that sits around the collar, when in ceremonial uniform.   The historical use of the boatswain's call was a way to pass commands to the crew when the voice could not be heard over the sounds of the sea. Because of its high pitch, it could be heard over the activities of the crew and bad weather.

(Pronounced "Bosun") - a board seat on which a man working aloft is swung

- a builder of small vessels. A shipwright builds ships.

- a stay attached to the bottom of the bowsprit and to the bow to hold the bowsprit down and counteract the force of the forestay. Many times there are two. On a vessel with a Dolphin Striker, this is called a Martingale. This needs to be very strong and not stretchable, so it is usually made of wire rope or heavy chain since it counteracts most of the upward and rearward pull of the foremast through the forestay.

- in a lines plan of a vessel, the sectional view of the hull as seen from the bow and stern

- a substantial vertical pillar to which lines may be made fast. Generally on the quayside rather than aboard ship.

- chafing gear made like a cushion, used where needed to protect rigging from wear

- a rope sewn into the luff of a sail for use in attaching to the standing rigging

- in larger galleons, a fourth mast with, usually, a lateen-rigged mizzen

- a strip of canvas laced onto the bottom of a loose footed jib in order to increase the sail area in fair weather. The bonnet is removed when wind velocity increases again.

- a small hatch through the deck of a ship with a raised frame and a sliding cover. This hatch is especially useful when the decks are awash, since the high sides keep the water from pouring in, and the small size of the opening limits the amount of water than can splash in

- the horizontal spar to which the foot of a fore & aft sail is attached

- a padded protective cover for the boom head that keeps the boom head from denting a sailboard as the mast pivots forward during a fall.

- a device designed to control the swing of the boom on a sailboat. The boom brake acts as a preventer when sailing downwind, and can also be used to jibe the mainsail in a slow controlled movement. - a lever on the boom head of a wishbone boom that tightens around and attaches the boom to the mast of a sailboard. Early models of sailboard booms didn't have a clamp. They had to be lashed to the boom. The boom clamp is a major improvement that has undergone many modifications and some current models are still much better than others.

- a removable support to set the boom on when it is not in use to keep it from swinging

- the fore end piece on a wishbone boom that connects the two sides of the boom

- a set of iron brackets near the outboard ends of a yard through which the studding sail boom is mounted to support studding sails out beyond the yard arm.

- a boom vang

- a short horizontal spar extending from the stern of a vessel to which a sheet block is attached for a long, overhanging boom; or for vessels without running backstays, the backstay may be attached

- an arrangement of a wide metal bracket or horse often mounted athwartships on the cabin top or deck under the boom to which the sheet block is secured allowing it to move to the lee side at each tack.

- a line attached to the bottom of the boom and the mast, a short distance from the mast, that adjusts downward tension on the boom. Also called a Boom Jack

- a wrapping or sheathing around the mast at the partners in order to keep water from going below. Also called a "coat"

- 1. a painted line on a vessel's hull that marks the designed load waterline (LWL).   2. the area between the water lines of a ship when fully loaded and when unloaded. The portion of the hull above the boot top is the "topsides" and the portion below is the "bottom."

- an incoming tide that advances as a sharply defined wave in certain rivers and inlets that have a long way to run over a gradually sloping bottom

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- 1. that part of a vessel that is underwater   2. ground, the terrestrial surface submerged under the ocean, lake, river, etc.

- specialized paint containing ingredients like copper and lead that are toxic to marine crustaceans and algea, applied to the bottom of boats to inhibit growth of marine life that can substantially reduce the speed and range of the vessel.

- a portion of the material forming the bottom, brought up for inspection

- see "Bowse"

- the front of the boat or sailboard   See illustration.

- a group of ships arranged such that each ship follows on the quarter of the ship ahead. With this type of convoy arrangement, each ship is clear of the wake of the ship ahead making it easier to keep up.

- an anchor carried at the bow of a vessel

- pieces of scrap rigged around the bow at the waterline to protect the hull from ice damage

- a painter or line to the bow

- 1. a simple used to tie a fixed loop at the end of a line, identical in structure to the , except it is tied in one line instead of tying two together. It is simple, strong, virtually slip proof, and easy to untie The is one of the eight most useful a sailor needs to know.   3. - beating into the wind

- an auxiliary motor and propeller mounted athwartships at the bow, and employed to maneuver the ship sideways

- 1. to pull or hoist with a block and tackle   2. to secure something by wrapping with small stuff

- a near-horizontal spar extending from the bow of the boat, used as an anchor for the foremost mast by the forestay and offering additional space on which sails can be rigged

- opposing cables or chains fitted horizontally from the end of the bowsprit to chainplates on the bow's sides to support the bowsprit from side to side.

- a method of veering or jibing a square rigged ship, without progressing to leeward appreciably. It is performed by heading bow to windward until most speed is lost, but steerage way is still barely maintained. The bow is then turned back downwind to the side it came from, aftermost sails are brailed up to spill the wind and to keep them from counteracting the turning force of the foresails, and the ship allowed to pivot quickly downwind without advancing. They are, however, extended as soon as the ship, in veering, brings the wind on the opposite quarter, as their effort then contributes to assist her motion or turning. Box-hauling is generally performed when the ship is too near the shore to have room for veering in the usual way. (Falconer- 1779)

- an operation in sailing somewhat similar to box-hauling, but is a tack rather than wearing about or veering. It is performed by turning head to wind and backing the headsails, then, as sternway is made, reversing the helm to turn the bow down wind on the opposite side. Aftermost sails may be brailed up to keep them from counteracting the turning force of the foresails, and the ship allowed to pivot quickly downwind, then the brails released and the yards braced about again when the the wind hits the opposite quarter of the vessel to assist in turning. (Smith - 1629)

- To state all 32 points of the compass, starting at north, proceeding clockwise. Sometimes applied to a wind that is constantly shifting.

- 1. a rope near the end of each yard by which a yard is swung about to alter its angle to the wind.   2. to swing or turn the yards of a ship by means of the braces. Yards are "Braced Aback" to bring the wind onto the forward side of the sail and to take way off the ship. They are "Braced About" to bring the ship onto the opposite tack and "Braced Abox" to bring the headyards flat aback to stop the ship. They are "Braced In" to bring the yards athwartships when running and they are "Braced Sharp" or "Braced Up" to make the yards as close as possible to fore-and-aft when sailing close-hauled.

- half salt water and half fresh water, as where a river dumps into the seas

- a modern configuration of line that is braided instead of twisted. It may be single or double braided, one braid over another braided core. Easy to handle because it does not tend to tangle as much as twisted line

- 1. small ropes used to haul in or up the leeches, bottoms, and, sometimes, luff and corners of sails, for furling.   3. ropes led from the leech on both sides of a fore-and-aft, loose-footed sail and secured to the mast at deck level, to gather the sail close to the mast, spilling wind and thereby slowing the ship. The command is "Brail the sails," or "Brail Up the sails."

- a device on the windlass on larger vessels to control or slow the descent of the anchor

- 1. an alloy of copper and zinc commonly used for fittings, accessories and decorative pieces on a vessel   2. senior officers

- 1. a hole or opening broken in the hull through which water will enter   2. to break an opening in the hull   3. the action of a whale when it leaps clear of the water   4. a leap of a whale clear of the water

- an admeasurement term for the width or beam of a ship at its widest point across the deck

- 1. to dismantle and scrap a ship   2. for the crest of a wave to fall down the face of the wave   3. the joint or step between two deck levels

- waves cresting and spilling over as they reach shallow water; surf

- to bring a piece of equipment out of storage and put it to use

- a man-made extension of the shoreline made to take the brunt of wave action and erosion and protect the waters on its lee side; a jetty

- a shipyard where ships are taken apart for scrap

- to clean the bottom of a vessel using torches and scrapers

- the joint in the heavy timbers of a wooden vessel that firmly connects the keel and the bow timbers

- a docking line going at approximately a right angle from the boat to the dock, usually at the bow and stern

- the opening in a block through which the line is rove   See at on this page

- a canvas seat shaped like breeches (pants) suspended under a life buoy which is swung from a tight hawser by a snatch block and used for hauling a man from one ship to another, or from a shipwreck to the shore.

- a structure above the weather deck of some modern ships, extending the full width of the vessel, which houses a command center, itself called by association, the bridge

- 1. a line attached at both ends in order to distribute the strain between the two points   2. a wire mounted transversely on deck of a small sailboat to which the main sheet block is secured allowing it to slide to the lee side at each tack. A type of traveler.

- See at on this page

- See at on this page

- a wooden planked deck that has been varnished or oiled, rather than painted or coated with canvas

- varnished woodwork or polished metal of a vessel

- 1. seawater with a high salt content   2. foam which gathers at the edges of seawater on the beach   3. the sea, poetic usage

- the act of stopping a vessel by turning her head into the wind

- shipshape; clean, neat, orderly, and meeting high standards of seamanship

- to be thrown broadside into the trough and out of effective control while running downwind; caused by the stern outrunning the bow as it slides down the face of a wave.

- one of several planks just above the garboard plank

- in the general direction of. For example, "Broad on the starboard beam" describes the general direction that is forward of the beam and on the starboard side of the vessel

- a where the boat is sailing away from the wind, but not directly downwind. Maximize window at to see more detail.(Opens in new window)

- to fire all the cannon on one side of a vessel at the enemy

- the gangplank. A moveable ramp used for boarding/disembarking from and loading/unloading a vessel

- light fog or mist

- a type of patented hook, used in pairs to quickly attach two lines or a line to a sail. These hooks are figure 8 shaped with a narrow beveled opening in the side of one of the loops of the eight so that when the openings of two hooks are held at right angles to each other, they will slide together or apart, but once joined and the angle changed, they hold like two links of chain. A very good, quick attachment device, however,

- a pirate and privateer of the Spanish coast of the Americas and Caribbean Sea

- a fin keel with a large, heavy aerodynamically shaped weight at the very bottom to increase the vessel's lateral stability

- a large, rounded, forward protrusion below the waterline at the bow of many large displacement hulled, modern vessels. The bulb modifies the way water flows around the hull, reducing drag and increasing speed, range, stability, and fuel efficiency.

- An upright wall within the hull of a ship. Particularly a load bearing wall.

- a U-shaped steel clamp with threaded ends and a bridge tightened down with nuts, used to hold two cables together

- a chock placed at the stem (bow) that is used to pass the anchor chain through while a vessel is being towed or while moored to a buoy, or for use to pass the bow line while moored to a pier

- A single-holed , used to guide and control a line and, particularly in older vessels, to change its direction.

- The extension of the ship's topsides above the level of the weather deck.

- No! Bumpers on boats don't exist; bumpers are on automobiles. You're thinking of that fend your vessel off piers, wharves and other objects.

- 1. A spar, similar to a bowsprit, but which projects from the stern instead of the bow. May be used to attach the backstay or mizzen sheets.  

- a rubber, elastic rope useful in limited rigging and stowage applications onboard a vessel; shock chord

- a compartment for the storage for the ship's fuel

- 1. the central part of a square sail

- a line tied to the bottom of a square sail and used to haul it up to the yard when furling

- an anchored float marking a position or channel, or for use as a mooring or other aid to navigation. Some have a bell, light, or whistle attached to them. A buoy with a cylindrical shape and a flat top is called a “can.” A buoy with a cylindrical shape and a conical top is referred to as a “nun.” View a downloadable and printable about buoys and other aids to navigation.   Also see

- a formal, well established code of rules and definitions for marking shoals, harbor entrances, channels, and obstructions to permit safe shipping. View a downloadable and printable about buoys and other aids to navigation.

- the degree to which an object floats in a fluid

- a vest or jacket that will keep a sailor afloat in the water; not as buoyant or safe as a bulkier life jacket which is designed to hold a person's head out of the water; even if unconscious

- the vessel that must "Give Way" in a situation

- a yachting pennant of any shape, but usually either pointed or swallow tailed and identifies either a ship's owner or a sailing organization. Yacht clubs and their members may fly their club's burgee while underway and at anchor, day or night, but not while racing. Modern sailing vessels fly the burgee from a lanyard under the starboard spreader on the mast, while older sailing vessels fly the burgee from the main masthead. Power boats fly the burgee off a short staff on the bow.

- a light tackle having double or single blocks, used to hoist or tighten rigging.   See on this page

- a wooden block fastened behind a butt joint to add strength

- a point where two planks join each other without scarfing or overlapping

- in a lines plan; the contour lines that represent the vertical, lengthwise slices through surface of the hull of a vessel

- a raised ring around the upper part of the leather on the loom of an oar to keep the oar from sliding out through the oarlocks   See

- a type of knot in which the end of the line, after forming a knob, passes out of the same end of the knot it entered. There are several button knots.

- said of anything that has gone overboard

- a term applied to a vessel when she is deeper forward than aft

- sailing with the wind coming from behind, and slightly to the side that the sails are on; usually

- a term applied to a vessel when she is deeper aft than forward

- sailing close hauled or beating

                                                                      - an enclosed room on a deck or flat offering accommodations for passengers or crew. Compare to

- a small power boat that has accommodations for passengers and/or crew

- the floor of the cabin

- 1. a very large rope; greater than 10 inches in circumference   2. a wire rope   3. a measure of length or distance equivalent to (UK) 1/10 nautical mile, approx. 600 feet; (USA) 120 fathoms, 720 feet (219 m); other countries use different values.   4. a ship's rode or anchor line.

- twisted nine-strand rope made by twisting three rope parts, each part consisted of a twisted three-strand rope

- 1. a wooden deck structure housing the ship's galley   2. a cooking stove and forge sometimes located on the gun deck

- the act of trading between the ports along the coast of a single nation

- See

- 1. a student in training at a naval academy   2. a rank of student officer aboard a training ship

- 1. a light rowing boat common in the Bosporous   2. a small sailing boat used in the Eastern Mediterranean

- a weather situation with no wind and no seas

- a tensioning device for a line that has opposing, parallel, spring loaded, movable cams with teeth to grip the line pulled through them and hold the tension on the line, and from which the line can be easily and quickly freed by pulling on the line and lifting it out of the jaws. Also called by the ambiguous name, "Line Stopper".   Compare to

- the convex curvature of a sail or deck.

- a sailboard sail that has internal or external camber inducers to help properly shape the sail

- a mechanical device, usually inside the mast sleeve of some sailboard sails that the fore (luff) end of a batten fits into and either wraps around or partially wraps around the mast, keeping the fore end of the batten centered on the mast, thus enabling tension on the batten to create a forced, semi-rigid, camber (curvature) in the sail.

- a type of navigation buoy, the above-water portion of which is in the shape of a cylinder. View a downloadable and printable about buoys and other aids to navigation.

- an artificial waterway that has been dug, dredged or constructed to carry vessels

- a type of anti personnel cannon load in which lead balls or other loose metallic items were enclosed in a tin, wooden, or iron shell. On firing the shell would disintegrate releasing the smaller metal objects. Canister shot pretty well replaced in the early 19th century. The canister gave improved range, better dispersal and allowed higher velocity powder loads. See also , , and .

- Solid, round projectiles fired from a cannon in order to sink, dismast, and do other structural damage to one's enemy's ship, along with killing him, if possible. Cannon balls were fired at great distance, but as vessels grew nearer, was substituted in order to dismast and destroy rigging on the enemy's vessel, then , or were substituted at close range...and if you wished to set the enemy on fire, either heat cannon balls in a furnace to red hot or use

- a cut made in the body of a whale behind the neck and used for hauling the body on board

- technology that differs from a canting keel system in that the boat has twin rudders-one forward of the canting keel strut and one aft of the keel strut. The "rudders" perform the function of both the keel and rudder on a normal fixed keel boat relieving the canting keel strut of having to produce mostly lateral resistance.

- a form of sailing ballast, suspended from a rigid canting strut beneath the boat, which can be swung to windward of a boat under sail, in order to counteract the heeling force of the sail. The canting keel must be able to pivot to either port or starboard, depending on the current tack. The purpose of the canting keel is to allow the boat to develop righting moment when level, by swinging the keel to windward independent of the boat's angle of heel. With the canting keel handling the ballast functions, lateral resistance and steering can be managed separately with a foil (or pair of foils fore and aft). This allows for much quicker maneuverability than traditional keelboats, with about half the weight usually required for ballast.

- a long block and tackle arrangement mounted at the head of the mainmast and leading to a whale alongside and used for hauling the carcass aboard. The weight of the whale on the tackle would cause the ship to lean (cant)

- heavy frames at the bow and stern that are not perpendicular to the keel, but rather radiate at an angle to support the curving topsides of the hull

- 1. a tightly woven fabric, originally made of hemp, linen, then cotton, used for sails and awnings. New sails are usually made of Dacron and Nylon or composites.   2. all encompassing term for a set of sails

- a promontory or headland protruding into a body of water

- the fore-and-aft finishing piece on top of the clamp and sheer strake, at the frame heads, in an open boat

- 1. to turn a boat over.   2. for a knot to fall apart or come undone   3. to turn a knot inside out

- 1. a vertical drum, revolving on a spindle, used for reeling in heavy line or chain.  See at Wikipedia for more information.

(pronounced "shan'-tee") - a rhythmic sea song with a short repetitive answering chorus, sung by the crew as they trod around the capstan pushing on the bars to raise the anchor or other heavy object. The rhythm helped them to act in unison, and gave them heart for the hard work.

- 1. the person on board a vessel and who is in charge of the vessel and legally responsible for it and its occupants   2. a naval officer having a rank equivalent to a full colonel

- a temporary adjutant-general who is in charge of discipline aboard the ships of a fleet

- a disciplinary hearing aboard a naval vessel at which the captain hears testimony about offenses committed on the ship and administers appropriate punishment

- a sliding fitting that attaches to a track allowing for the adjustment of blocks or other devices attached to the car

- see

- a modern, light weight, strong, composite made of carbon fibers and epoxy used in masts and other sailing components

- hollow iron cannon balls filled with resin, turpentine, tallow, salt peter, sulphur, and antimony, producing a fire that was, in a wooden ship, almost impossible to extinguish. They were rarely used because without extreme caution, they were more danger to the user than the enemy. Compare to , , , and

- the four primary directions on a compass: North, East, South, and West

- to cause the ship to tilt on its side, usually to clean or repair the hull below the water line. To Heave Down

- the merchandise being hauled in a merchant ship

- a large open area below decks used for stowing goods

- a ship or boat designed and built for the sole purpose of carrying cargo

- fore-and-aft aligned timbers separating deck beams

- fore-and-aft beams at hatches

- a narrow space between the hull and interior bulkheads where the ship's carpenter could inspect for damage and make repairs

- a large galleon of the 15th century. See

- a short smoothbore, cast iron cannon, developed for the Royal Navy by the Carron Company, Scotland, UK used from the 1770s to the 1860s. The carronade was designed as a short-range naval weapon with a low muzzle velocity. The lower muzzle velocity of a carronade's round shot was intended to create many more of the deadly wooden splinters when hitting the structure of an enemy vessel, leading to its nickname, A carronade was much shorter and a third to a quarter of the weight of an equivalent long gun: a 32 pounder carronade, for example, weighed less than a ton, but a 32 pounder long gun weighed over 3 tons. Carronades were manufactured in the usual naval gun calibers (12, 18, 24, 32 and 42 pounders, but 6 pdr and 68 pdr versions are known), but they were not counted in a ship of the line's rated number of guns. The classification of Royal Navy vessels in this period can therefore mislead, since they would often be carrying more pieces of ordnance than they were described as carrying.

- to break loose or tear off; said of gear that has exceeded its strength capabilities, as "The storm jib was just

- any of several high speed planing jibes initiated by taking the rear foot out of the strap and placing it near the leeward rail of a sailboard, shifting weight to that rail in order to make the board turn in that direction, flipping the sail as you pass through straight downwind, then exiting the jibe, still at planing speed.  

- a method of a wooden boat's hull by fixing planks to a frame so that the planks butt up against each other, edge to edge, gaining support from the frame and forming a smooth hull. Such planking requires caulking between the joints over and above that needed by the technology, but gives a stronger hull capable of taking a variety of full-rigged sail plans, albeit one of greater weight.   See illustration at

- forced from a ship by disaster

- a crew member or passenger of a vessel that survives its sinking and is left adrift or stranded

- a heaving line

- to release lines holding boat to shore or mooring, to release sheets

- 1. To hook an anchor, with a block and tackle called the Cat, after raising it to the Cat Head, prior to securing ( ) it alongside or on the on deck for sea. (An anchor raised to the Cat Head is said to be ).   2. The cat o' nine tails.   3. A cat-rigged boat or catboat.

- a chemical used to activate polyester resins and other polymer compounds to make them solidify

- a sailing vessel with two hulls; usually pontoons of equal size.

- a one sail sailboat with the mast well forward, usually having a gaff rig.   Compare to other on this page

- in rowing, to miss a stroke by failing to get the oar into the water at the beginning of a stroke or by failing to withdraw it properly at the end.

- the U-shaped curve in a line or rope, made fast at both ends, due to the downward pull of gravity

- One of the short ropes or iron cramps used to brace in the shrouds toward the masts in order to give freer sweep to the yards.

- a beam extending out from the hull at the bow, used to support an anchor when raised (Catted) in order to be secured (Fished). They are used to draw the anchors up to the top of the side without injuring the bow.

- short, knotted, nine-tailed whip kept by the bosun's mate to flog sailors (and soldiers in the Army). When not in use, the cat was kept in a baize bag, hence the term "letting the cat out of the bag". "Not enough room to swing a cat" also derives from this. The "cat" is believed to date back to ancient Egypt where the domestic cat was sacred and, even then, was said to have nine lives. The Egyptians believed that when beaten with cat hide, the victim gained virtue from the whip.

- to fill gaps with waterproof compound or materials to make watertight

- 1. a condition where bubbles or vacuum form around a propeller allowing it to spin without resistance and making it lose its ability to drive a vessel forward.  

(Pronounced "Kee") - one of a chain of small low lying tropical islands composed of coral or sand. Same as "Key".

- the inside lining of the hull. Not above your head.

- determination of position, and thus, the total process of navigation based on your position, by the position of the sun, moon, and stars.

- a retractable, sometimes removable, keel that extends from the bottom of the boat or sailboard from the centerboard case or trunk. The centerboard typically will self retract by swinging backward and upward while making headway if it hits bottom in shallow water and its angle and depth can be adjusted to lessen drag, increase stability, or increase the ability to sail upwind. The deeper it is adjusted, the more drag it creates, the more stability it creates, and the more easily the craft will sail upwind

- 1. a vertical line running from bow to stern through the middle of a craft.   2. In a lines plan of a vessel, a vertical line that represents the plane that divides the vessel in half, and from which half-breadths are measured.

- an invisible point on a sail where the combination of all the aerodynamic forces converge. The point where the sail "seems" to pull from.

- a point on the bottom of a watercraft where the combination of all the hydrodynamic forces converge. It is in the center keel or of the centerboard when the centerboard is down

- an official government paper, such as a seaman's, boat's, or master's license, allowing the operation of a commercial vessel

- damage to a line caused by rubbing against another object

- Cloth, tape, baggywrinkle or other material attached to lines or other rigging to avoid abrasion

- storage space for the anchor chain and rode

- an aperture through which a chain, rode, or cable passes from the chain-well to the deck above.

- storage space for the anchor chain and rode

- metal plate with an eye, bolted to the deck or side of a gunwale, to which standing rigging is attached

- Cannon balls linked together with a chain and fired in order to do structural damage to the enemy's rigging and masts.   Compare to , , , and

- a horizontal timber or ledge built outboard from the side of a sailing vessel to spread shrouds and backstays outward. There may be , and or .

- 1. nautical items   2. the stores where nautical wares are sold

- a shipboard song, or chant primarily on merchant ships during heavy work, such as turning the capstan or hoisting a sail, to help coordinate the men's efforts and to pass the time

- 1. the navigable portion of a waterway where there is a known depth of water. Boats may not normally anchor in a channel   , and or .

- a nautical map

- a booklet prepared and distributed by the National Oceanic Survey that shows all the symbols and abbreviations approved and used by the U.S. government on its nautical charts

- the extreme distance, shown in numbers on a chart, at which a navigational light can be seen under standard conditions

- Cannons mounted on the bow or stern of a ship. Those on the bow could be used to fire upon a ship ahead, while those on the rear could be used to ward off pursuing vessels.

- 1. Wooden blocks at the side of a spar.   2. The sides of a block or gun-carriage.

- a piece of wood fastened with iron bolts on each top-side of the ship. Used for boarding the main-tack to, or hauling home the clews of the main-sail or course, for which purpose there is a hole in the upper part, or deadeyes or blocks attached, through which the tack passes, that extends the clew of the sail to windward. Where chain has been substituted for rope, iron plates with thimble-eyes are used for chess-trees.

- turning a fore-and-aft rigged vessel upwind and tacking through more than 180 degrees to avoid having to jibe on a downwind course. While much slower, this technique avoids the dangers of passing the boom across the boat under load.  

- cannon balls made of very rapidly cooled cast-iron, i.e. cast in iron moulds, and thus found to acquire a hardness which renders them of nearly equal efficiency with steel shot for penetrating iron plates, yet produced at about one-quarter the price. They invariably break up on passing through the plates, and their fragments are very destructive on crowded decks; though in the attack of iron war vessels, where the demolishment of guns, carriages, machinery, turrets, etc., is required, steel shot is superior.   Compare to , , , and

- 1. A relatively sharp angle in a hull, as compared to the rounded bottoms of most traditional boat hulls.   2. A line formed where the side panels of a boat meet the bottom panels. Soft chine is when the two sides join at a shallow angle, and hard chine is when they join at a steep angle. Chine is not seen on round bottom vessels.

- an internal, longitudinal timber that runs from stem to stern at the chine of a vessel

- a simple, old, speed measuring device consisting of a wooden board, in the shape of a quarter circle, attached to a line (the log-line). The log-line has a number of knots tied in it at uniform, measured, spacings. The log-line is wound on a reel to allow it to be paid out easily in use. The is thrown overboard at the stern of the vessel and as the line pays out, it is timed, thus the speed of the vessel can be calculated. The log-line is attached to the board with a bridle of three lines connected to the vertex and to the two ends of the quadrant's arc. In order to ensure that the log submerges and is oriented correctly, the bottom of the log is weighted with lead. This provides for more resistance in the water and a more accurate and repeatable reading of speed. The bridle is attached in such a way that a strong tug on the log-line results in one or two of the bridle's lines releasing, allowing the log to be retrieved with relative ease.   See at Wikipedia.   Compare to and

- a guide or fairlead for an anchor, mooring or docking line, attached to the deck   See illustration at on this page

- rigging blocks that are so tight against one another that they cannot be further tightened   Sometimes called Two-Blocked

- a series of small waves that tend to make your ride rough or "choppy."

- an imaginary line drawn between the luff and the leech of a sail and parallel to the water's surface. Used for describing sail shape.

- a ship's clock. Before GPS units were used, these needed to be extremely accurate on long voyages in order to determine a ship's longitude

- another name for Derived from "parachute" because of their similar appearance.

- See

- a tensioning device for a line that has opposing, stationary teeth in a "V" or "Wedge" configuration to grip the line pulled through them and hold the tension on the line. Also called by the ambiguous name, "Line Stopper".   Compare to

- a main longitudinal strengthening member under the deck in decked-over boats that acts as the bearer of beams and joints, and at the gunwale in open boats

- organized groups for racing boats that are either of identical specifications and measurements, or have variable measurements and fit a formula, designed to compensate for boat performance, and thus, put a premium on skill and tactics

- to beat to windward away from a lee shore

- a horned, stationary fitting used to secure a line   See illustration at on this page

- a nail whose tip has been bent back into the wood to lock it in place; most often used in lapstrake planking

- a cylindrical pin that secures one fitting to another

- the lower aft corner of a sail, where the leech meets the foot, and where the outhaul or sheet is tied and is adjusted.

- sailing with the sail of a sailboard reversed; clew ahead of the mast

- tackles attached to the clewlines of square sails, on the yards above, used to truss up or clew up the sails (i.e. to pull the clews up onto the upper yard or the mast in preparation for furling the sail).

- lines attached to the clews of square sails and to the yards above, used to truss up or clew up the sails (i.e. to pull the clews up onto the upper yard or the mast, using the clewgarnets, in preparation for furling the sail).

- a of constructing hulls of boats and ships by fixing wooden planks and, in the early nineteenth century, iron plates to each other so that the planks overlap along their edges. The overlapping joint is called a land. In any but a very small boat, the individual planks will also be joined end to end; the whole length of one of these composite planks is a strake. Same as "Lapstrake"   Compare to

- a very fast sailing ship of the 19th century that had multiple masts and a square rig. They were generally narrow for their length, could carry limited bulk freight, small by later 19th century standards, and had a large total sail area. While traditional merchant ships were accustomed to average speeds of under 5 knots (9 km/h; 6 mph),clippers aimed at 9 knots (17 km/h; 10 mph) or better. Some could reach 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph). The fastest recorded speed for any sailing vessel during this time was a clipper, Sovereign of the Seas, traveling at 22 knots (41 km/h; 25 mph) in 1854. Clippers were built for seasonal trades such as tea, where an early cargo was more valuable, or for passenger routes. The small, fast ships were ideally suited to low-volume, high-profit goods, such as spices, tea, people, and mail. Given their speed and maneuverability, clippers frequently mounted cannon or carronade and were often employed in piracy, privateering, smuggling, or interdiction service.

- the sharp bow of a vessel whose stem creates a concave curve and projects outboard

- not on, but near a vessel

- a where the boat is sailing as close to the wind as effectively possible without the sails or becoming . Maximize window at to see more detail.(Opens in new window)

- a where the boat is sailing towards the wind but is not close hauled or . Maximize window at to see more detail.(Opens in new window)

- a vessel that is capable of sailing very well upwind

- sailing a sailboard in high winds with the mast raked back so the foot of the sail almost touches the deck of the board.

- a simple used to tie a line to a post. Effective in its purpose, but spills easily. It should be finished with at least one half hitch over the standing end of the line, if not two. The is one of the eight most useful a sailor needs to know.

- 1. a boom for a jib on a vessel so rigged.   2. a spar laced to the foot of a jib, or sometimes to the after edge of a quadrilateral, fore-and-aft rigged sail like that on a log canoe.

- a jib with boom or "club" on the foot of the sail

- a maneuver in which a ship drops one of its anchors at high speed in order to turn abruptly. This was sometimes used as a means to quickly get a good firing angle on a pursuing vessel.

- the raised edge around a hatch, cockpit or skylight that helps keep water on deck from running below

- an ocean current flowing roughly parallel to a coast, outside the surf zone

- a small change in the direction of travel of radio waves as they cross a shoreline obliquely

- a vessel that stays near land rather than venture out to sea

- a yard having one yardarm cocked higher than the other

- the area, below deck level, that is somewhat more protected than the open deck, from which the tiller or wheel is handled

- a geared, pedestal mounted hand crank, similar to the pedal crank on a bicycle, that drives a winch. A coffee grinder may be used by one person, or two people that are facing each other. This geared system offers a lot of power enabling sails to be trimmed quickly.

or Coil Down - to lay a rope in a loose, stacked spiral on the deck. To coil down a line, a large of the (secured) end of the line is made on the deck and successive turns are made on top of each other until all the line has been used, making sure to keep out kinks, and laying the bitter end on the outside of the coil. The whole coil is then carefully capsized (turned over) leaving the standing end clear for running.   Compare to and

- the reinforced opening in the deck or cabin roof through which the mast passes, designed and constructed to take the lateral strain of the mast. Called "Gate" on smaller vessels and "Partners" on larger vessels

- a historical term used to describe a bulk cargo ship. In the late 18th century a number of wooden-hulled sailing colliers including HMS Adventure, HMS Discovery, HM Bark Endeavour, and HMS Bounty, gained fame after being adapted for use in voyages of exploration in the South Pacific, for which their flat-bottomed hulls and sturdy construction made them well suited.

- The International Regulations for Preventing Collision at Sea, also known as the Rules of the Road or International Navigation Rules, are a set of statutory requirements designed to promote navigation safety while in outer coastal waters and on the high seas. These rules include requirements for navigation lights, dayshapes, and steering as well as sound signals for both good and restricted visibility. They are similar to, but slightly different from the Inland Rules in the wording and in the signals that vessels must use. An entirely different set of rules apply when boats are racing, previously called the International Yacht Racing Rules before 1996, and now, the Racing Rules of Sailing, created by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF).

- long curling waves

- to Tack; to change course by turning the bow into the wind so that the wind comes from the other side of the boat.

- ladders or stairways leading below

- a navigation instrument, either magnetic (showing magnetic north) or gyro (showing true north)

or - 1. to direct the steering of a ship 2. the action or post of conning a ship

See

- rope or line

- an apparent force acting on a body in motion, due to rotation of the earth, causing deflection to the right in the northern hemisphere and to the left in the southern hemisphere

- a magnet, piece of iron, or device to counteract the built in of the ship's compass

- a pirate or privateer

- The part of the stern above the waterline that extends beyond the rudder stock, culminating in a smaller transom. A long counter increases the waterline length when the boat is heeled, so increasing hull speed

- a secondary current flowing adjacent to and in the opposite direction of another current

- a fore-and-aft structural member of the hull sloping up and backwards from the keel to the transom to support the overhang of the counter. Also called the

- a devise for attaching the tongue of a trailer to the hitch of a vehicle

- the intended direction of travel expressed as an angular distance from 0° at North clockwise through 360°.   Compare to , , and

Also see below. - the angular difference between the course and the course made good

- the single, resultant, direction of actual travel from the point of departure to the point of arrival (which may not be the destination if you calculated wrong), expressed as an angular distance from 0° at North clockwise through 360°.   Compare to , , and

- the course expected to be made good over the ground

- the course actually made good over the ground

- the lowest square sail on each mast - The mainsail, foresail, and the mizzen on a four masted ship (the after-most mast usually sets a gaff driver or spanker instead of a square sail)

- a small version of the flag of the country being visited; flown from the starboard spreader

- In racing, to stay between your opponents and the next mark

- the outermost, wide, fore-and-aft running deck plank on either side of a vessel; covering much of the length of the top edge of the hull, the ends of the frames, and the top edge of the sheer clamp

- the horn-shaped top of a ship's ventilator

(Pronounced "cox'n") - The helmsman or crew member in command of a boat

- Coastal Quick Release - (also a poor pun on the word - a popular plow type anchor design that has a pivoting shank to aid in setting.

- a pedestal mounted abaft the mast; used in place of a gooseneck fitting on some catboats

or - an isosceles triangular sail with, sometimes very curved, spars along upper and lower edges that are tied down at the bow, and switched from one end of the boat to the other when shunting (tacking) and have a shorter, sometimes very concave curved, leech. The upper spar or yard is attached to the mast, but the bottom spar is not and the crab claw pivots around the leading edge spar. The mast is mounted in the larger hull (Vaca) of a or other, similar vessel.

- a framework to support vessels in the vertical position when they are out of the water

- a fitting, mounted at the end of the bowsprit to which stays are attached

- easily keeled over, especially by wind or sea through improper design or loading.

- a circular eye, made of rope, metal, etc., usually sewn into the corners or luff of a sail, for attaching the sail to a spar.

- the akas or connecting framework between the hulls of a catamaran

- a sail manufacturing technique, first implemented by Nathanael Herreshoff in the mid 1800's, whose panels and seams run at right angles to the leech; as opposed to paralleling the leech, as had been done for centuries prior to that time. Cross cut sails stretch less and allow smoother airflow across the fabric.

- a square yard used to spread the foot of a topsail where no is set, e.g. on the foremast of a topsail schooner or above the driver on the mizzen mast of a ship rigged vessel - 1. horizontal pieces of wood or metal that cross the mast athwartships near the top of a mast, acting as spreaders for the shrouds of the mast section above it. Masts of a square rigger are made in sections in case the mast breaks, so that only that section need be replaced. It would be nearly impossible to replace a wooden one-piece mast the full height of square rigged ship, much less carry spares onboard. See at   2. Spreaders

- a structure built on the mainmast masthead, constructed with sides and sometimes a roof to shelter a lookout from the weather. Until the invention of radar, having a man in the crow's nest was the best way to view other ships, land, or approaching hazards

- a support for a spar when the spar is not in use

- a small cabin in a boat

- a light, long barreled cannon used in the 16th and 17th centuries used to bombard targets from a distance. The culverin fired solid cannon balls with a high muzzle velocity, producing a relatively long range and flat trajectory.

- a grommeted hole in the luff of a sail, just above the tack, through which an easily adjustable line that controls the downforce on the luff of the mainsail is run in order to flatten the sail; a type of downhaul

- 1. the spiral "valley" between the strands of a rope or cable. Before serving a section of laid rope e.g. to protect it from chafing, it may be "wormed" by laying yarns in the cuntlines, giving that section an even cylindrical shape   2. the space between casks or barrels stowed side by side

- A join between two lines, similar to an eye-splice, where each rope end is joined to the other a short distance along, making an opening which closes under tension

- the horizontal movement of water. Compare to

- a maneuver a sailboarder makes during wave sailing that involves climbing the face of a wave then making a sharp turn near the lip of the wave and heading back down the face.

- When wanting to make a quick escape, a ship might cut lashings to sails or cables for anchors, causing damage to the rigging, or losing an anchor, but shortening the time needed to make ready by bypassing the proper procedures

- The "cut" of a sail refers to its shape. Since this would vary between ships, it could be used both to identify a familiar vessel at a distance, and to judge the possible sailing qualities of an unknown vessel

- 1. a single masted, fore-and-aft rigged vessel that has the mast stepped further aft than the conventional sloop, about two-fifths of the way aft measured on the water line, allowing for larger jibs. They usually sail with an inner staysail and an outer jib.   2. a ship's boat having double-banked oars and one or two lugsails.   3. Also, a revenue cutter; a lightly armed government vessel used to prevent smuggling and enforce the customs regulations.   4. A U.S. Coast Guard Cutter - the Coast Guard calls any CG vessel 65 feet in length or greater, having adequate accommodations for crew to live on board, "Cutters".   Compare to other on this page

- the leading edge of the stem; the part that cuts or separates the water when the ship is in motion. A False Stem

- a large-scale, atmospheric wind-and-pressure system characterized by low pressure at its center and by circular wind motion, counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere, clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere   See also: and

                                                                      - a trademarked name for a type of polyester used in sails and lines that was developed in the 1950s. It is strong, light, impervious to rot, stretches little, is supple and has a high resistance to sunlight. Dacron sails can be precisely cut and hold their shape well, thus most modern working sails are made of this material. Also called Terylene in some parts of the world.   See

- a removable keel that is inserted straight down from the top, through a slot in the deck, through the bottom of a boat or sailboard. It typically needs to be raised manually to avoid damage when running aground in shallow water, since a daggerboard will not pivot back when it hits an object.

- a locator consisting of a ballasted float carrying a staff which supports a flag or light, typically employed to show the location of a worksite, the end of a fishing set or a man overboard.

- a piloting angle, on which both chart and the water, a measured angle between two points - such as buoys, obstacles, or landmarks - indicates to a sailor an unsafe limit to his vessel

- a marking an isolated danger to navigation

- that half of a cyclonic storm area to the of the storm track in the northern hemisphere, and to the in the southern hemisphere. In this semicircle, the winds are stronger and tend to blow a vessel into the path of the storm

YOU MUST GIVE WAY TO VESSELS IN BLACK DANGER ZONE - the angular area from Dead Ahead to Two Points Abaft the Starboard Beam of your vessel. Other vessels in this Danger Zone have the over you and YOU MUST Yield Right of Way to and steer clear of them. Vessels approaching your course and not in your Danger Zone should yield to you.

- a crane able to project over the sides of a vessel in order to hoist heavy articles or weights, such as lifeboats, tenders, anchors, or stores; frequently used in pairs

- An idiom for the bottom of the sea

- an unlighted fixed structure which is equipped with a dayboard for daytime identification. View a downloadable and printable about daybeacons and other aids to navigation.

- the daytime identifier of an aid to navigation presenting one of several standard shapes (square, triangle, rectangle) and colors (red, green, white, orange, yellow, or black) marking channels, obstructions, etc. Range Dayboards, which are usually shore-mounted, come in pairs to help the vessel operator maintain a straight and safe course within a navigable channel. Each member of the pair is separated from the next in distance and elevation, with the one in front shorter than the one behind it. When the two appear to be vertically stacked, the vessel is on the range line.View a downloadable and printable about dayboards and other aids to navigation.

- 1. an open sailboat   2. a small to medium sized sailboat not intended to be used for extended cruising

- a geometric shaped marker, such as a cone, ball, or cylinder used onboard ship during daylight hours to indicate a vessel's condition, type, or occupation according to the Rules of the Road

- the distance traveled by a vessel in one day, usually reckoned from noon to noon

- bearing 000°, relative; straight in front of the vessel

- bearing 180°, relative; directly behind the vessel

- a round, thick wooden disc with a groove in the outer edge of it to restrain a lined that is spliced around it and having one or more holes through it, perpendicular to the plane of the disc, and through which a lanyard or line is run, used in the standing and running rigging of traditional sailing ships; used as a less expensive stand-in for a block and tackle which has rotating sheaves that greatly reduce friction and wear on the line. Single and triple-hole deadeyes are most commonly seen; the single holed version is called a bull's-eye. Deadeyes were most ofter used in rigging such as stays that are not adjusted often.

- pieces of thick, transparent glass or plastic, fixed in the decks or sides of a vessel to admit light. Unlike "portlight" portholes, they have cannot be opened for the flow of air.

- a line that has come free of its cleat and is thrashing in the wind or dragging in the water, a very embarrassing example of poor seamanship

(DR) - the process of estimating one's current position based upon a previously determined position, or fix, and advancing that position based upon known speed, elapsed time, and course; without sightings to land, etc. The speed reading was originally based on a Dutchman's Log, which uses a buoyant object tossed overboard near the bow of the vessel and assumed to be " " in the water, or stationary, and the time it takes for the boat to move by it a certain, measured, distance on the deck is timed, then the speed of the vessel can be calculated. This does not take into account effects of wind and currents on the calculated position of the vessel.   Compare to and .

- the angle above horizontal of the bottom from the centerline (keel) to the chine, measured in degrees. A flat bottomed boat would have zero deadrise. Deadrise is typically measured at the transom. If measured at some other point, that point should be specified. "Midship Deadrise Angle" is the angle, taken at midship, at which the hull slopes up from horizontal. The deadrise can vary dramatically along the hull, very acute at the bow, to very small angles at the stern.

- the speed a vessel will make through still water with its propulsion continuously engaged at engine idle speed   Compare to and

- a heavy reinforcment of the keel mounted on top of the keel of a vessel to afford a firm fastening for the frames and to attach the keel to the stem and/or sternpost

- In a keel boat, a death roll is the act of to windward, putting the spinnaker pole into the water and causing a crash-gybe of the boom and mainsail, which sweep across the deck and plunge down into the water. The Death Roll often results in destruction of the spinnaker pole and sometimes even demasting of the boat. Serious injury to crew is possible due to the swift and uncontrolled action of the boom and associated gear sweeping across the boat and crashing to the (now) leeward side.

- an approximately horizontal surface that is a structural part of a ship. This is the part you stand on. Compare to

- timbers that run athwartships and support the decks

- hardware mounted on the deck for making lines, shrouds, or stays fast or changing the direction of lines - a written record of the movements of a vessel with regard to courses, speeds, positions, and other navigational information, and important events aboard the vessel. Also called "Ship's Log"

- angular distance north or south of the celestial equator; the arc of an hour circle between the celestial equator and a point on the celestial sphere, measrued northward or southward from the celestial equator through 90°, and labeled N or S to indicate the direction of measurement

- the process of estimating one's current position based upon a previously determined position, or fix, and advancing that position based upon known speed, elapsed time, and course, along with currents and effects of wind (leeway).   Compare to

- the angle with the horizontal made by the outboard rise of the bottom of a vessel at the widest frame

- a hard chine power boat having a 15 degree or more angle deadrise at the transom

- the vertical distance, measured inside the hull, from the bottom or floors to the deck. Used as a measure of storage space on larger vessels   Compare to and

- a line connecting points of equal depth on a chart

- an electronic device that uses Sonar to determine the distance from the hull to the bottom of the body of water. Compare to

- a "Depth Finder"

- to have the outer layer (skin) of a sailboat or crafts hull separate from its adjoining layer

- to reduce heeling force by changing sail trim

- a vessel or cargo abandoned in open water by its crew without any hope or intention of returning.   Compare to and and and

- a deleterious influence on compass readings caused by magnetic objects near the compass that need to be for to make the needle point directly to magnetic north. These may be parts of a vessel, other objects, temporary or permanent, or the vessel itself. Compare to . Also See:

- in the lines plan of a round bottomed boat, the set of lines corresponding to slices made at various angles down from varying points on the center line to the outside of the hull. The distances from the center line to the intersection of the diagonals and the sections are used to check the accuracy of the hull being created compared with the lines plan.

- 1. a small, open boat, often carried by a larger vessel to act as a .   2. a small, open sailing boat

- a light illuminating a sector or very narrow angle and intended to mark a direction to be followed

- the weight of the water displaced by a watercraft as it sits in the water

- a vessel's hull that is designed to ride through the water, pushing it down and outward as it travels rather than riding on top of the water's surface.

- a small bag for personal items or tools

- having a period of, occurring in, or related to once a day

- tidal current having one flood current and one ebb current each tidal day

- the difference between the heights of the two high tides or two low tides during the tidal day, or the difference in speed between the two food currents or the tow ebb currents during a tidal day

- tide having one high tide and one low tide each tidal day

- an instrument consisting, in its simple form, of two pointed legs joined by a pivot, used principally for measuring distances or coordinates on a chart or map

- See

- 1. a landing pier, wharf, or quay.   2. an enclosed or nearly enclosed water area for working on or loading and unloading vessels.   3. the act of taking the boat to a pier to secure it

- a frame-supported, covered structure, sometimes with windows, providing a helmsman and other occupants of the cockpit of a sailboat partial protection from harsh weather and seas. It covers part of the cockpit and the entrance (or "companionway") into the interior of the sailboat. One can usually stand under a dodger and be protected from rain, spray and snow traveling straight down or from the front and sides of the craft, but there is little protection afforded from elements moving from aft forward. A similar type of shelter on a boat, but without the forward and side protection, is called a Bimini top.

- a lever-like handle found on hatches and bulkhead doors, that when turned, force the unit to be water tight

- a small wind vane placed on the truck or above the rail and within the view of the helmsman

- the duty watch from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. The purpose of the Dog Watch is to shift the watches each night, so that the same watch shall not be on deck at the same hours throughout a voyage. In order to effect this, the watch from four to eight P.M. (the Dog Watch) is divided into two half-watches, one from four to six p.m., and the other from six to eight p.m. By this means they divide the twenty-four hours into seven watches instead of six, and thus shift the hours every night. The choice of time also allows both watches, if there are only two, to eat an evening meal at about the traditional time, usually at two bells (5:00 P.M.) (1700 hours) during the First Dog Watch, and at the change of the watch at four bells (6:00 P.M.) (1800 hours) (beginning of Last Dog Watch).

- to have the thumb screws or other tightening devices, as on a hatch, tightened

- a band circling the earth at or near the equator, created by the convergence of the opposing winds of the northern and southern hemispheres and known for its erratic weather patterns with large areas that lack wind punctuated with violent thunderstorms. The area of the Doldrums moves farther away from the equator during the Northern summer than the Southern summer due to the concentration of the continents north of the equator. Early sailors named this belt of calm "the doldrums" because of the inactivity and boredom they found themselves in after days of no wind; often towing their ships with their oar-powered ship's tenders toward any winds they could find. To be becalmed in this region in a hot and muggy climate could mean death in an era when wind was the only effective way to propel ships across the ocean. Even today leisure and competitive sailors alike attempt to cross the zone as quickly as possible as the erratic weather and wind patterns may cause many days of delays.

- a piling or nest of pilings bound together off a wharf or beach, or off the entrance to a dock, for use in mooring or having navigational markers mounted on it

- a spar pointed downward from the bow of a boat, supporting the martingale, to strengthen the bowsprit.

- the apparent change in frequency of radiant energy when the distance between the source and the observer or receiver is changing, as when the sound of a train's whistle changes pitch as the train approaches or recedes.

- a ventilation opening with a cowl on deck and a box designed to keep water out while allowing air to pass below

- a rowing arrangement having two oarsmen per thwart, each pulling an oar on opposite sides

- having bow and stern shaped almost the same; as in a canoe or whaleboat

- a vessel with two sails forward of the mast as on a cutter

- a planking method in which two staggered layers of carvel laid planks make up the hull. Perhaps the strongest and most lasting of various planking methods.

- to lower quickly, as in a sail

- a device used to make the launching and retrieval of a spinnaker a much easier task. The dousing sock is a long fabric tube with a ring in one end to hold it open. Since the spinnaker is stored inside the dousing sock, it must first be rigged. Two lines are attached to the sock; one is attached to a bridle on the ring, for pulling the sock down, and one is up the inside, from the ring, through the top, and back down, for raising the sock; these lines may be two ends of the same line, to form a complete loop. The head of the spinnaker is attached the top of the dousing sock and the ring runs down to the tack. The resulting bundle is stuffed into the spinnaker bag. The top of the sock will have provisions for attaching to the spinnaker halyard. The spinnaker is raised as normal, but with the sock in place the spinnaker is unable to catch the wind. Once the spinnaker is raised and the guys are ready to set, the dousing sock is raised, releasing the spinnaker. The dousing sock remains bundled up at the head of the sail while the spinnaker is deployed. To retrieve the spinnaker, the sheet or the tack is released and the sock is pulled down, gathering the sail. The halyard is then dropped and the sail may be packed away.   Also called "Snuffer" or "Spinnaker Sleeve" or "Sock".

- 1. the wire or rope tackle that pulls the foremost end of the boom on a sailboat down in order to tighten the luff of a sail 3. to tighten the downhaul line. The opposite is to "ease" the downhaul.

- all points of sail and the all the area leeward of the centerline of a watercraft

- a course that is to a destination downwind of its starting point

- a piece of canvas fastened by lacing to the bonnet of a sail, to give it a greater depth, or more drop in light winds

- 1. the depth of the curve of a sail   2. the vertical distance from the bottom of the keel to the waterline. (British - Draught)   Compare to and   2. the depth or fullness of a sail

- the resistance caused by wind and water

- the breaking loose of an anchor, caused by high winds and seas, and dragging it freely across the bottom, thus putting the vessel to which it is attached, in peril

- 1. a vessel is said to six feet of water if her is six feet deep   2. the sails are said to be when they are filled with wind in order to give the vessel headway

-   2. a verbal reprimand

- 1. the amount of movement of a boat caused by currents when not under power, or the amount of while under power. Compare to , , , , , , , and

- a lead placed on the bottom to indicate the movement of a vessel

- the large sail flown from the mizzen gaff

- the fifth mast of a six-masted barquentine or gaff schooner. It is preceded by the jigger mast and followed by the spanker mast. The sixth mast of the only seven-masted vessel, the gaff schooner Thomas W. Lawson, was normally called the pusher-mast.

- a

- a sail known as a "Drifter/Reacher/Spinnaker

- a narrow basin or vessel that can be flooded to allow a load to be floated in, then drained to allow that load to come to rest on a dry platform. Drydocks are used for the construction, maintenance, and repair of ships, boats, and other watercraft.

- decay of wood timbers caused by moist, but not necessarily wet, conditions

- 1. keeping a boat out of the water when not sailing.   2. hoisting sail and drying the boat out after a sailing session

- storing on land, out of the water

- a rubberized or impermeable neoprene, loosely fitting suit that allows insulation to be worn inside it, with neck, wrist, and ankle gaskets to keep out water, that retains the warmth of the sailor wearing it and, supposedly, keeps them dry.

- changing the tack of a sailboard by grabbing the tail of the boom and letting the sail pass across the sailboard just before the board passes through straight downwind. The name derives from the improper assumption that the sailor "ducks under the sail." Instead, the mast is leaned forward, via the boom, in order for the sailor to avoid being hit by the boom or foot of the sail. This maneuver is easier, by far, than a regular jibe, but you need speed for stability as you enter the turn; this is why it is not taught to beginners.  

- channels for the movement of fresh air or evacuation of fumes

- a wooden plug used to fill a cavity in a hull member

- a sail folding and reefing system that uses vertical control lines laced through fairleads in the sail. The lines are attached vertically to the topping lift and at the base of the sail, and don’t move. The sail slides up and down on the lines like a Roman window shade. As you drop the sail, the lines guide the main down to alternate sides of the boom. A few seconds straightening, and you’re done. One person can perfectly flake virtually any size sail very quickly. Many sailors don’t even bother with sail ties. - an early speed measuring device which uses a buoyant object tossed overboard near the bow of the vessel and assumed to be " " in the water, or stationary, and the time it takes for the boat to move by it a certain, measured, distance on the deck is timed, then the speed of the vessel can be calculated. This does not take into account effects of wind and currents on the calculated position of the vessel.   Compare to and

                                                                      - small lines, by which the uppermost corners of the largest sails on a square rigged vessel are secured to the yardarms

- to loosen or let out

- a tidal current flowing away from shore. Opposite of .

- measuring the depth of the water using a device.   Compare to and

- a circular motion in the water caused by the meeting of opposing currents

- a term used loosely to describe electrochemical galvanic corrosive reaction between two different metals when they are placed in contact with one another

- sailing using automatic or manual electronic devices such as depth finders, electronic compass, radio direction finder, radar and various positioning systems like Loran, Decca, Omega, VHF Omnirange or GPS, etc., to navigate

- a warming of the ocean surface off the western coast of South America that occurs every 4 to 12 years when upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich water does not occur. It causes die-offs of plankton and fish and affects Pacific jet stream winds, altering storm tracks and creating unusual weather patterns in various parts of the world

- a condition where a sailing vessel is confined between two capes or headlands, typically where the wind is blowing directly onshore

- an organizational or national flag flown aboard a vessel

- the design of the forward section of a vessel's hull in the water. This quantifies the type of hull in terms of efficiency and behavior in relation to wave action. For instance, a sharper bow means faster speeds for a racing hull.

- a catalogue of tables showing the location of various celestial bodies at specific moments in time throughout the year; consulted by the navigator in preparation for taking sights of celestial bodies. Such tables were known as "The Ephemeris" from the 18th C. until 1981 when it was jointly published by the US and Britian; now called the Nautical Almanac or Astronomical Almanac.

- Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon - a small, continuously transmitting radio device on a standard distress frequency, used to alert authorities of a distress situation and lead rescue personnel to the scene.

- an imaginary line on the Earth's surface equidistant from the North Pole and South Pole, dividing the Earth into the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere and having a latitude of 0°. Certain navies, such as the U.S. Navy and the British Royal Navy, have a tradition of holding "line crossing" initiation ceremonies on board ship to mark sailors' crossing of the Equator, typically featuring King Neptune, Roman god of the sea, as do some civilian ocean liners and cruise ships.  See illustration at

- a navigation point, less accurate than a fix, determined by course run, estimated speed, and estimated factors like drift caused by the wind and currents

- an abbreviation for Estimated Time of Arrival

- when a vessel is floating on its designed waterline or "Boot Top", it is said to be on an even keel

- a seazone prescribed by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea over which a state has special rights over the exploration and use of marine resources, including energy production from water and wind. It stretches from the baseline out to 200 nautical miles from its coast. In colloquial usage, the term may include the continental shelf. The term does not include either the territorial sea or the continental shelf beyond the 200 n.m. limit. The difference between the territorial sea and the exclusive economic zone is that the first confers full sovereignty over the waters, whereas the second is merely a "sovereign right" which refers to the coastal state's rights below the surface of the sea.

- a camber inducer that is in an opening in the mast sleeve as opposed to inside the mast sleeve

- the point under International Rules of the Road (Navigation Rules) at which the privileged (or stand-on) vessel on collision course with a burdened (or give-way) vessel determines it must maneuver to avoid a collision. Prior to extremis, the privileged vessel must maintain course and speed and the burdened vessel must maneuver to avoid collision.   See

- a bolt having a looped head mounted through the deck or stem on small vessels to receive a towing line or hook

- Directly upwind. In the direction from which the wind is blowing.

- a fixed loop in the end of a line made by doubling a line back on itself and either interweaving the strands back into the lay of the rope, or tucking the end of a double-braided line back into the core.   See on this page

                                                                      - 1. A smooth curve, usually referring to a line of the hull which has no deviations   2. In lofting, to correct a hull's lines with the use of a batten; making them even and regular   3. To make something flush   4. A rope is fair when it has a clear run   5. A wind or current is fair when it offers an advantage to a boat. (Opposite of Foul)

- an eye or block used to change the direction of a line without chafing and/or to give the line a better angle to a winch. Often used on modern boats to guide the jib sheets.

or Fake Down- to lay a line or rope in a series of flat, elongated, side-by-side coils. To a line, a short length of the working or free end of the line is laid out in a straight line on the deck and then turned back on itself to form a small coil. The line is then laid back along itself beyond the free end and another coil made at a short distance. Successive coils or are made, laying the coils neatly upon each other at the end of each straight section, keeping the straight portions uncrossed and flat.   Compare to and

- 1. the line or chain of a block and tackle; especially the end to which the power is applied in hoisting. Also called Hauling Part.   2. a wide front flap on trousers (as those worn by sailors)

- a vessel is said to "fall off" when its bow turns away from the direction from which the wind is coming

- a combustible carried by vessels of war, chiefly for signaling, but sometimes burned for the purpose of deceiving an enemy. 2. a light on shore for decoying a vessel to destruction

- a separate timber that attaches to the stem, covering the side planking. Also called the Cutwater

- Tied or held firmly (made fast: tied securely; fast aground: stuck on the seabed)

- a measurement relating to the depth of water, one fathom is 6 feet or 1.83 meters

- a trademarked name for a brand of sonar depth finder

- the ruling agency in the U.S. for radio equipment and its operation

- 1. to turn the blade of an oar, after the power stroke, so that it rests or moves parallel to the waters surface on the return stroke, in order to decrease resistance to wind and waves.   2. to change the course of a sailboat slightly to windward upon being hit by a puff of wind in order to reduce the force of the wind on the sails and avoid excess healing. A stronger gust might require a full-fledged luffing of the sails.

- a cushion made of rope, rubber, or inflatable plastic hung over the sides to "fend off" or keep boats from banging into docks or each other when docking or berthed. Don't call them "Bumpers" unless you want to get laughed at. Bumpers are an automobiles, not boats.

- to hold away from

- 1. the distance over which wind blows across the water's surface   2. In some countries, "Fetch" or "Fetching" is the same as being on a

- 1. strands, matte, or woven glass fibers   2. stranded, matte, or woven glass fibers laid up on a form and reinforced with an epoxy or polyester resin   GRP - Glass Reinforced Plastic

- a tapered, sometimes hollow, rod, made of wood, bone, or plastic, used to open the "lays", or strands of synthetic or natural rope for splicing.   Compare to

- a small rail on tables and counters used to keep objects from sliding off when heeled or in heavy seas

- See

- a rail around the mast with holes for belaying pins

- a very good stopper knot, used to keep a line from passing through a block or fairlead. Use a figure-eight knot instead of an overhand knot whenever you can; although it will pull down tight, it is significantly easier to untie than an overhand knot. One of the eight knots everyone should know. See at on this page

- a symbolic, carved image at the head, mounted under the bowsprit, of a traditional sailing ship or early steamer

- skeg, a blade on the bottom rear of a sailboard that creates lift and gives the board the ability to hold a straight course by reducing side slippage.

- the slot built into the bottom rear of a sailboard for the fin or skeg to fit into and lock in place. There are several variations, each with its corresponding set of fins. Fins are not interchangeable between models of fin boxes.

- a longitudinally short, but deep, keel on a vessel   Compare to on this page

- as in " " - a description of direction of an object in relation to the vessel, not relative to the earth's poles or magnetic field, meaning at a very small angle from the heading, but not directly in front of the vessel. If the objects angle is within about one point (11.25°) of the starboard bow it would be considered " "

- a long narrow pier projecting from shore or projecting at right angles from another pier

- a boat equipped with water pumps and water cannons to fight fires along waterfronts and on ships

- a ship loaded with flammable materials and explosives and sailed into an enemy port or fleet either already burning or ready to be set alight by its crew (who would then abandon it) in order to collide with and set fire to enemy ships

- The Second in command of a ship

- The classification for the largest sailing warships of the 17th through 19th centuries. They had 3 masts, 850+ crew and 100+ guns

- 1. To repair a mast or spar with a fillet of wood.   2. To secure an anchor on the side of the ship in preparation for getting under way after , or lifting the anchor to the

- an older (1840's), but very good anchor design that features long iron arms with a long stock set perpendicular to the arms and at the top end of the shank. No longer used for large ships but continues in use for small boats and for moorings. Although it has great holding power in a penetrable bottom it is extremely awkward and the long stock is vulnerable to mechanical damage. When in position the upstanding arm may foul a chain or pierce the hull of a vessel. Also called an Admiralty Anchor. See the illustration at

- a full, quadrilateral sail used in light air on schooners. It is flown high, between the fore and main mast, and is also known as a Gollywobbler   See

- 1. a sharply pointed hook, usually baited, for catching fish.   2. the sharp, broken individual wire strands in a wire rope or cable; so named because of the ferocity with which they rip or puncture skin. If a line has more than a very few fishhooks, it should be replaced.

- an accurate determination of your position without reference to a previous position. Compare to

- See

- 1. one complete coil of a line that has been   2. to fold the sails in place on the deck

- to lay a rope or chain up and down on the deck so the whole length is exposed

- the maximum speed of a ship; faster than "full speed"

- that part of the topsides that flares just below the foredeck

- a safety device like a metal mesh on an engine's air intake that absorbs heat and keeps a backfire from causing an explosion if gas vapors are present

- 1. upward curve and outward spread of the topsides at the top of the bow in order to make the bow more buoyant and to keep the deck dry by deflecting waves away from the vessel.   2. a pyrotechnic signaling device, usually used to indicate distress

- a signal lamp that is on more than it is off in a regular sequence of single bursts not greater than 30 times per minute

- a lock that, after being partially emptied, is opened suddenly to send a boat over a shallow place with a rush of water. Also called, staunch or stanch, or navigation weir.

(also called Platform) - a partial, non-structural, horizontal surface between two full decks or on top of one. Compare to

- that part of a block and tackle system which is attached to the permanent support. Also called the "standing block."

- a coiled a rope on the deck in a flat, one layered, tight spiral starting with the in the center. This ends up looking like a mat and is very unlikely to tangle or be tripped over.   Compare to and

- to rotate the rig so that the clew passes around the mast toward the bow of the sailboard in order to fill the sail with wind from the other side.

- a soft iron bar, in or on the binnacle, in place to compensate for compass error from vertical magnetism in a vessel with an iron hull

- Sea ice. Either a single piece or several/many pieces floating as a group

- the violent back and forth whipping of a sail whose clew has been release in strong winds

- a tidal current flowing toward shore. Opposite of

- transverse members that reinforce the frames and carry the strength athwartships across the keel

- the surface of the cockpit on which the crew stands

- athwartships timbers that attach to keel and frame heels and serve to unify the backbone and frameing as well as strengthen the lowermost strakes

- a measurement of buoyancy for sailboards. The number of liters that a sailboard displaces when submerged. The larger the number of liters, the more flotation and the greater weight of sailor and rig it will carry

- Debris or cargo that remains afloat after a shipwreck.   Compare to and and and

- the wedge-shaped part of an anchor's arms that digs into the bottom

- a deck with no superstructure or upward protruding cabin

- a term describing a sail not bent to any spar or stay and controlled by its halyard, tackline and sheet

- a large sail used only for sailing downwind, requiring little attention

- a secondary set of controls on larger vessels, higher, for better visibility

- waves or tidal movement directly to aft of and going in the same direction as a vessel

- 1. the bottom edge of a sail   2. the bottom of a mast   3. a measurement of 12 inches   4. when sailing upwind, to ease the sails slightly and sail faster instead of trying to point

- bottom boards or walking flats attached to the insides of the frames on boats where deep floors are not fitted

- If the foot of a sail is not secured, it is footloose.

- 1. a rope on each yard on a square rigged sailing ship for sailors to stand on while setting or stowing the sails (Also, in antiquity, called a "Horse")   2. the boltrope along the foot (bottom) of a sail 3. The bottom line on a set of safety lines around the perimeter of a vessel

- 2. a horizontal strap running fore-and-aft in the cockpit, on deck, or on the trampoline of a small vessel for the crew to hook their feet under when leaning out over the side of the vessel (hiking out), in order to keep from falling overboard, while counteracting the lateral force of the wind on the sails that is trying to rotate the vessel around its longitudinal axis (tip the boat over) Hiking straps.

- a reference or parallel relationship to the longitudinal axis or centerline of a vessel

- sails suspended directly from the masts or gaffs and attached to booms, such that the sails, when sheeted in, run approximately parallel to the centerline of the ship, unlike Square Rigged Sails that run at approximately 90 degrees to the centerline. See the at the top of this page.   Compare to

(Pronounced "foc'sle") - a partial deck, above the upper deck and at the head of the vessel; traditionally the sailors' living quarters. The name is derived from the castle fitted to bear archers in time of war.

- the forward portion of the main deck of a vessel

- the forward part of the keel that adjoins the stem

- a line used to control the spinnaker pole and keep it from getting too high

- the forward mast of a boat that has more that one mast

- a compartment or area inside the bow on smaller vessels. It often contain the chain locker or other storage.

- any sail before the mast; any jib, genoa, gennaker, spinnaker, etc.

- the portion of the boat forward of the foremast thwart

- lines or cables reaching from the front portion of the deck, between the bow and mast to near, but below the masthead, sometimes used to support the mast on a fractional rig.   Compare to , , and

- the triangular area formed by the mast, deck and bowsprit, and forestay. If a foresail is equal to or smaller than the foretriangle, it is a jib; if it is larger, it is a genoa, gennaker, or spinnaker.

- Shorter boards up to one meter in width, for use in Formula Windsurfing races. These boards are designed primarily for sailing up and downwind rather than on a beam reach.

- toward the bow to the boat   See illustration.

- to stop a leak in a ship's hull by pulling a sail covered with old rope fibers, wool, or oakum over the outside of the damaged area of a ship's hull. When the hole is covered by the sail, the fibers are drawn into the cracks and crevasses in the hull, plugging them up. This was the predecessor to the modern day collision mat.

- 1. a piece of equipment that is jammed or tangled. For example, a rope is foul when it does not run straight or smoothly, and an anchor is foul when it is caught on an obstruction or its own rode. The opposite of clear or fair.  2. A breach of racing rules

- to hook another anchor, wreck, or cable, under the surface of the water; or when, by the wind suddenly abating, the ship slackens her strain, and straying round the bed of her anchor entangles her slack cable about the upper fluke of it, and easily draws it out of it's place as soon as she begins to ride with a strain. To prevent this, it is usual, as a vessel approaches the anchor in light winds, to draw the slack cable into the ship.

- to fill with water and sink

- small cordage made by twisting together two or more strands of tarred yarn

- a fore-and-aft sail configuration, typically used on dinghy sailing boats and racing oriented keel boats, consisting of a foresail, such as a or sail, that does not reach all the way to the top of the mast.   See two sailboats photograph at the for a comparison.

- 1. the principal structural members, comprising the skeleton of a hull.   2. a transverse structural member which gives the hull strength and shape. Wooden frames may be sawn, bent or laminated into shape. Planking is then fastened to the frames. A bent frame is called a timber. Also called

(Sailing Free) - sailing any point of sail except close hauled

- the distance from the gunwale to the waterline

- meant for comfortable recreational cruising (mostly straight-line sailing and occasional turning) at planing speed, mainly in flat waters, light chop, or in light to moderate swell. They typically fall into the volume range of 90 to 170 liters

- Related to wave boards in terms of maneuverability, these are wider, higher volume boards geared specifically at performing acrobatic tricks (jumps, rotations, slides, flips and loops) on flat water. Usually 80 to 110 liters in volume, and about 240 to 250 centimeters in length, with widths frequently in excess of 60 centimeters. Freestyle boards began to diverge more noticeably in design from wave boards in the early part of the year 2000 decade, as aerial tricks (the Vulcan, Spock, Grubby, Flaka, and related New School maneuvers, almost all involving a jump-and-spin component) became the predominant part of the freestyle repertoire, superseding Old School moves, in which the board did not leave contact with the water.

- a warship. In the age of sail, a was usually a long, low, fast, light weight, full-rigged ship, built to fight, patrol, and escort other ships. Frigates have changed significantly over the centuries and many nations still have frigates in their navies; although they now are all steel and armed with missiles.   Compare to other on this page.   For more information, see at Wikipedia.

- Sailing into the wind ( ), but not as close-hauled as might be possible, so as to make sure the sails are kept . This provides a margin for error to avoid being taken aback (a serious risk for square-rigged vessels) in a tricky sea. Figuratively it implies getting on with the job but in a steady, relaxed way, without undue urgency or strain.

- a longitudinally long, but shallow, keel on a vessel.   Compare to on this page

or Fully Rigged Ship or Ship - a sailing vessel with three or more masts, all of them square rigged. A full rigged ship is said to have a ship rig.

- a sail that has battens (stiffeners) that run horizontally clear from the leech to the luff

- the name given to strong westerly winds found in the Southern Hemisphere generally between the latitudes of 50 and 60 degrees. Air displaced from the Equator towards the South Pole, which travels close to the surface combines with the earth's rotation to cause west-to-east air currents. Because there is little land below the 40th parallel south, greater wind speeds are able to build than in the same region of the Northern Hemisphere that contains significant land masses.   See illustration at , that are usually weaker, and the that are usually more extreme.

- to fold or roll a sail and secure it to its main support

- pieces of timber that make up a large transverse frame

                                                                      - 1. the spar that is attached to the upper edge of a fore-and-aft mounted sail, if so rigged   Compare to and   2. a long hook with a sharp point to haul fish aboard

- 1. a fore-and-aft sail mounted on an upper spar or gaff which extends aft from the mast.   2. a vessel thus rigged.   Compare to or

- a strong wind. Actually, there are four categories of Gale: from  7 - 10 respectively. - a large, multi-decked, square rigged vessel of the 16th to 18th centuries with 3 to 5 masts with a lateen sail on the mizzenmast. The principal warships of the opposing English and Spanish fleets in the 1588 confrontation of the Spanish Armada were galleons and were the prototype for all three or more masted, square rigged ships for over two and a half centuries, including the coming full rigged ship.   Compare to other on this page

- 1. a kitchen onboard a ship or boat.     Compare to other on this page

- a frame used to rest the boom on when the sail is furled

- an electrochemical process in which one metal (the less noble) corrodes away when both metals are in electrical contact with each other and in the presence of an electrolyte (for instance, seawater). Also called electrolytic corrosion.

- 1. a school of whales, porpoises, or dolphins.   2. a social meeting or informal conversation (originally one among whalers when two whaling vessels met at sea).

- the bow fitting which clamps the bowsprit to the stem

- a movable bridge or walkway from ship to shore used in boarding and leaving a ship

- an opening in the Bulwark of a ship to allow boarding and disembarking of passengers

- the first planks immediately on either side of the keel

- a rope rove through a single block hung from a mast, funnel, etc., as a means of hoisting workers, tools, flags, or the like.   Also called

- a ring or collar of rope used to hoist spars or prevent fraying.

- a light line for securing a furled sail to a boom; a sail stop

- a hinged, semicircular, metal band attached to a thwart on a small sailing vessel to help stay a mast

or - the standard outer, visible finish on a fiberglass hull. Gelcoats are designed to be durable, providing resistance to ultraviolet degradation and hydrolysis. The gelcoat will often carry a pigment that provides the finish color to the hull.

- a foresail larger than either a or a genoa, with much greater camber for generating larger amounts of lift when reaching. are used when running, instead of gennakers or , because when running, the mainsail blocks the wind of a gennaker or genoa.

- a large foresail that reaches aft past the mast and overlaps the mainsail

- to sail along very slowly when there appears to be no wind

- a change of tack going downwind that brings the stern through the eye of the wind.     See

- a portable radio transmitter used in lifeboats

- 1. a light boat rowed with four, six, or eight long oars.   2. a boat reserved for the use of the captain of a ship.

- a pivoted device that suspends a compass, stove or other devise so that it remains level when its support is tilted

- a rope rove through a single block hung from a mast, funnel, etc., as a means of hoisting workers, tools, flags, or the like.   Also called

- to yield right of way

- "Burdened Vessel" - the vessel that must yield to the "Privileged Vessel" in a situation

- a world-wide, satellite based locating system capable of fixing a position with extreme accuracy

- Greenwich Meridian Time, also known as Greenwich Mean Time, Universal Time or Zula Time

- to tack a vessel; to change course by turning the bow into the wind so that the wind comes from the other side of the boat - to come about

- an ordinary enlisted seaman in the US Navy; a sailor

- a full, quadrilateral sail used in light air on schooners. It is flown high, between the fore and main mast, and is also known as a   See

- a swiveling device that connects the boom to the mast of a sailboat or ship, allowing the boom to swivel vertically and horizontally. Also called the   Compare to   See for sailboarding

- Global Positioning System - a world-wide, satellite based locating system capable of fixing a position with extreme accuracy

- to sail wing-on-wing with the headsail on the windward side

- hand holds on the cabin sides and top for personal safety when moving around the boat

- a measure of the weight of sailcloth. Also see Sailmaker's Ounce.

- the False Reef Knot. a poor knot often confused for the Square Knot. It slips easily and is often hard to untie when pulled down hard.

- Grapeshot is a type of anti-personnel ammunition fired from a cannon for the purpose of causing bodily harm to the enemy rather than do structural damage to his ship. Instead of solid shot (cannon balls), a mass of loosely packed metal slugs, or chain links, shards of glass, rocks, etc., in a bag was loaded. When assembled, the balls resemble a cluster of grapes (hence the name). On firing, the bag disintegrates and the balls spread out from the muzzle at high velocity, giving an effect similar to a shotgun, but scaled up to cannon size. Grapeshot was largely replaced by canister shot during the early 19th century, with the cloth bag being replaced with a wood-sealed metal canister.   Compare to , , and

- lightweight anchor with claw-like hooks or barbs used as an anchor or in dragging, grappling or boarding operations

- to clean a ship's bottom

- the intersection of a sphere and a plane that passes through its center. This is the shortest distance between two points on the surface of the sphere.

- the stronger of two ebb currents that occur in one day

- the stronger of two flood currents that occur in one day

- the local time at the Greenwich Meridian, also known as Universal Time or Zula Time

- the meridian passing through Greenwich, England and serving as the prime meridian and as the reference meridian for Greenwich Time

- 1. a curved timber used to join the keel to the stern 2. lashings suturing a boat in its place on deck or in davits 3. to secure (a boat) with gripes 4. (of a ship) turn to face the wind in spite of the helm...to have weather helm

- watered-down pusser's rum consisting of half a gill with equal part of water, issued to all seamen over twenty. From the British Admiral Vernon who, in 1740, ordered the men's ration of rum to be watered down. He was called "Old Grogram" because he often wore a grogram coat), and the watered rum came to be called 'grog'. Often used (illegally) as currency in exchange for favors in quantities prescribed as 'sippers' and 'gulpers'. Additional issues of grog were made on the command 'splice the mainbrace' for celebrations or as a reward for performing especially onerous duties. The RN discontinued the practice of issuing rum in 1970. A sailor might repay a colleague for a favor by giving him part or all of his grog ration, ranging from "sippers" (a small amount) via "gulpers" (a larger quantity) to "grounders" (the entire tot).

- drunk from having consumed too much grog

- a metal ring fastened in a sail or tarpaulin through which lacing or robands may pass

- the bed of the sea, lake or river

- when a ship (while afloat) touches the bed of the sea, or goes "aground"

- a long ocean wave or series of waves that started a considerable distance away and are increasing in height and getting shorter in length because of the gradient of the bottom as they arrive in shallower waters

- the anchor, chain and rode

- a small iceberg, piece of an iceberg, or other sea ice that is large enough to be a hazard to shipping, but small enough to avoid detection

- see Grams Per Square Meter

- small metal fittings, similar to eyebolts, secured to the sternpost on very small boats, through which the pintles fit, in order to attach the rudder to the stern of the boat

- A swinging spar (lower studding-boom) rigged from the ship's side with a warp for small boats to attach to and ride from to keep them from impacting their hulls or that of the larger ship.

- any deck with guns; on most of the old sailing ships it was a enclosed deck below the main deck. First Rate Ships had three gun decks.

- cruising in shoal water or overnighting in small coves

- a triangular sail hung from a yard that slides up a shortened mast and raises to vertical, allowing the peak of the sail to be much higher than the mast. This is similar to a , but the yard raises all the way to vertical. This rig is very convenient on small boats because it allows the whole rig to be unstepped at the mast and laid down in the boat for storage. Once the sail is raised, it looks and performs much like the triangular Marconi Rig. If using a boom, it is, however, rather difficult to reef the sail.   Compare to other

(Pronounced "Gun'l") - the upper edge of the sheer strake or hull of the boat at deck level

- a controlling line attached to the end of a movable spar; specifically, the inboard or windward controlling line, attached to the tack of a spinnaker; the outboard line is the sheet and is attached to the clew. The always goes through the outboard end of the spinnaker pole

- a metal hook near the shrouds used to hold the near the deck

- a change of tack going downwind that brings the stern through the wind's eye. Compare Gybe to    

- a notification or warning that a gybe (jibe) has been initiated by the helmsman. Watch out for the Boom!!!

or - a sprocketed wheel in a modern windlass with indentations for the links of the anchor chain. The gypsy, when engaged, either hauls in or pays out the anchor chain. When disengaged, the gypsy turns freely and the only control of the anchor chain is the friction brake. Also called the

                                                                      - to call a vessel

- in a lines plan, the view of the half of the hull from above. Since a hull is longitudinally symmetrical, only half of the hull is drawn.

- the lines used to raise and lower the sails

- a toothed rack on which the halyard may be tensioned to adjust the luff of the sail

- a loose block and tackle with a hook or tail on each end, which can be used wherever it is needed. Usually made up of one single and one double block.   See

- a type of racing among dissimilar boats where finish placement is determined by finishing position and the boat's measured ratings

- a weight on a line lowered into the water to measure the depth

(originally "hand over hand") - to climb steadily upwards (from sailors climbing shrouds on a sailing ship)

- slowly and carefully; as, "to ease a line handsomely"

- a wooden brace that attaches to the hull's side and supports the deck beams or decking

- a storage place for clothing

- A fastener attached to the luff of a headsail that attaches the headsail to the forestay. Typical designs include a bronze or plastic hook with a spring-operated gate, or a strip of webbing with a snap fastener

- a place where ships may shelter from the weather or are stored. Harbors may be man-made or natural

- small nautical charts designed for navigation in harbors and small waterways

- a person in charge of docking spaces, anchorages, refuse collection, etc., in a harbor

- the command given to inform the crew that the helm is being turned quickly to leeward, turning the boat windward in order to tack. Watch out for the boom!!!   Also "Helm's Alee"

- a hull shaped with flat sides joined at an angle

- to steer closer into the wind, usually by tightening the sheets

- as far as possible in one direction, for instance, a wheel or tiller can be "Hard Over" to make an abrupt turn

- a simple type of cracker or biscuit, made from flour, water, and sometimes salt. Inexpensive and long-lasting, it was and is still used for sustenance in the absence of perishable foods, commonly during long sea voyages and military campaigns. The name derives from the British sailor slang for food, "tack". It is also known by other names such as pilot bread (as rations for ship's pilots), ship's biscuit, shipbiscuit, sea biscuit, or sea bread.

- a covering for a Hatchway

- a covered opening in a ship's deck through which people can access lower decks or cargo can be moved. The cover for a hatchway is a Hatch

- 1. to pull on; as to "haul on a line". 2. Said of the wind; to change direction as, "the wind hauled occasionally to the southward."

- to change from a run to a reach

- the condition of the sails when they are running almost directly fore-and-aft, but still drawing wind

- the working end of tackle (rope) attached to a block that is pulled on in order to move the load   See

- to remove from the water

- a hole in a ship's bow for a cable or chain, such as for an anchor or mooring line, to pass through onto or from a ship

- a large rope or cable used for mooring or towing a vessel

- 1. top corner of a triangular sail & the top edge of a square sail   2. the front of the ship including the bow and adjacent areas   3. the toilet or latrine on board a vessel.

- a shift in wind direction closer to the bow of the vessel causing you to in order to keep your sails from luffing. Fall off.   Opposite of a Lift.

- a metal extrusion fitted on a forestay and used to secure the luff of a sail by holding the bolt rope in place

- the direction in which the bow of the vessel is pointed, expressed as an angular degree from 0° at North, clockwise through 360°. Not to be confused with . is a constantly changing value as the vessel oscillates or yaws back and forth across the course or temporarily changes direction as in avoiding an obstacle. is a predetermined direction that remains the same for a considerable time.   Compare to , , and

- vertical timbers at either end of a centerboard trunk or case that attaches to and stabilizes the planks of the trunk

- a warning to watch out; meaning that in reality, you'd better duck your head!

- a term used to describe the farthest point above the mouth of a river that can be navigated by ships

- to turn downwind of your current course. Fall off.

- the vertical space between floors or deck on which you are standing and the top of the cabin, canopy top or other overhead structure you are in; whichever applies   Compare to and

- a sail forward of the most forward mast, a foresail

- waves coming from the direction to which you are sailing

- a support line attached to the masthead and running to the bow or bowsprit. The luff of the jib may be attached to the headstay with hanks.   Compare to , , and

- the bow turned into the wind, sails luffing

- to turn upwind of your current course. Opposite of "Bearing Away", "Bearing Off", or "Falling Off"

- forward motion of a vessel. Compare to , , , , , , , and

- a wind that you are trying to sail toward. Opposite of Tailwind.

- 1. the non-rotational movement of a vessel up and down. Compare to , , , , , , , and   2. to throw, as a line   3. to pull on, as a line

- Turn a ship on its side (for cleaning). To Careen

- to stop a boat and maintain position (with some slight leeway) by balancing rudder and sail in opposition to each other to prevent forward movement, a boat stopped this way is "hove to"

- a light line, thrown from ship to ship or ship to shore in order to pull a larger line, such as a hawser. See

- wind that moves at over 24 mph (20 Knots) (36 kph). Good winds to use a Storm Jib on a knockabout or sloop. by sailboarders and are for advanced sailboarders only.   See

- Stormy, windy weather accompanied by rough or high seas, discomfort and, perhaps, danger!

- the leeward lean of a sailboat caused by the wind's force on the sails

- additional and temporary compass deviation cause by iron (engine, keel, etc.) in the vessel shifting position relative to the compass as the vessel heels

- the tiller or wheel, and surrounding area

- a notification or warning that the tiller has been moved toward the lee side of the vessel by the helmsman in order to turn the vessel upwind to tack (come about). Watch out for the boom!!!   Also "Hard Alee"

- the member of the crew responsible for steering

- one of the oldest natural fibers (the marijuana plant) that ropes can be made of (thousands of years) similar to, but pretty well replaced by manila in natural fiber ropes. Hemp is a tall plant that has useful fibers for making rope and cloth. It was used extensively before manila was introduced. Now hemp's principal use is in fittings such as ratline and marline. Because hemp is absorbent, the fittings are tarred to make them more water-resistant.   See

- See at on this page

- the higher of two high tides occurring during a tidal day

- the higher of two low tides occurring during a tidal day

- A particular type of tensioning lever, usually for running backstays. Their use allows the leeward backstay to be completely slackened so that the boom can be let all the way out

- the maximum height reached by a rising tide

- the difference between the heights of the two high tides of a tidal day

- air that moves at over 24 mph (20 Knots) (36 kph), and is usually sailed by advanced sailboarders.   See

- leaning out over the side of the boat to counteract the force of the wind trying to blow it over

- a board temporarily extended out over the side of the gunwale of a boat to sit on while hiking out. Compare to

- See "Hike"

- an extension for the tiller that lets the skipper control the tiller from the high side of the boat or while hiking out

- straps to hook your feet under to keep from falling overboard while hiking out

- 1. to tie a line to an object. 2. a used to tie a line to an object. Many hitches will fall apart (capsize) if removed from the supporting object. Compare to   3. An attachment, usually at the rear of a vehicle, that allows a trailer to be attached to the vehicle for towing.

- a portion of a trailer hitch in the form of a sphere on a post that the coupler of the trailer fits over and locks onto

- to raise aloft

- a condition occurring when the middle of a vessel is supported more by waves than the ends causing the keel to flex and the ends to be LOWER than the midships. Opposite of Sagging.

- in small boats, a timber attached on top of the keel to provide a surface to which the garboard strakes may be fastened. Also called a Keel Batten.

- the portion, below decks, that is used for storage of cargo

- a storage tank for sewage so that it isn't pumped or dumped into the water

- a bible shaped sandstone rock used, along with sand, to scrub decks. Also called a "bible" because it brought sailors to their knees

- sailing directly toward a radio beacon or other transmitter using a radio direction finder to "home in" on it

- plank ends at the bow and stern

- an anchor

- travel of a radio wave from the origin to the ionosphere and back to earth

- an angle, usually measured by a sextant, between two landmarks, providing a line of position (the arc of a circle)

- a fore-and-aft structural member of the hull sloping up and backwards from the keel to the transom to support the overhang of the counter. Also called the

- 1. the horizontal bar or rail that the traveler slides sideways on   2. to caulk a wooden vessel with a hammer or loggerhead   3. (Antiquated) a footrope to stand on while furling/unfurling sails on a square rigged vessel

- the latitudes near 30° N or 30° S at sea, characterized by inconsistent and changeable winds, calms, and high barometric pressure.   See illustration at

- a U-shaped personal flotation device (PFD), mounted on a ship's railing, used in rescues and man overboard situations

- Hardware that attaches the upper ends of shrouds and stays to masts

- a fouled spinnaker whose middle is twisted so that only the top and bottom of the sail fill, but the wind spills without significant force being applied to the sail

- the hollow, lowermost outer skin of a ship, floating partially submerged and supporting the remainder of the ship

- sufficiently far away that, because of the curvature of the sea's surface, the hull of a distant vessel cannot be seen below the horizon, only its sails or superstructure. Since a person standing at sea level can see approximately 7 miles on a clear day, this gives an idea of how far away a vessel is. If only the sails can be seen, and not the hull, it must be at least 7 miles away. Of course, if you are observing from the crow's nest, it is still further yet.

- the absolute maximum, theoretical speed at which a boat will travel. Hull speed (for a ) is a mathematical formula based on the length of the waterline. Hull Speed (in knots) = 1.34 times the square root of the waterline of a vessel in feet. Thus, a vessel with a 44' LOA and a 36' LWL would have a theoretical hull speed of 1.34 X 6 = 8.04 knots. 1 mph = roughly 0.869 knots. Of course, many other factors, including, but not limited to, wind speed, sail area, point of sail, sail trim, smoothness of the hull, ability of the sailors, etc., work to keep the vessel below hull speed.   By the way, it is incorrect to say, "What is your maximum hull speed?", because that would be redundant, asking "What is the maximum maximum speed of your boat."

- See

- A severe, rotating tropical originating in the equatorial regions of the Atlantic Ocean or Caribbean Sea or eastern regions of the Pacific Ocean, traveling north, northwest, or northeast from its point of origin, and usually involving heavy rains and wind with a speed greater than 74 miles (119 kilometers) per hour, according to the . Called "Typhoon" in other parts of the world.   Also see

- A harbor used to provide shelter from a storm. Ideally, a small, natural bay with a small opening to protect from waves and high sides to protect from the wind - also called an Asylum Harbor.

- A boat with wing-like foils mounted on struts below the hull that lift the boat out of the water at planing speed

- the science of surveying the surface waters of the earth with special reference to their use in navigation

- an urgent notice of dangers to navigation in the Atlantic Ocean

- an urgent notice of dangers to navigation in the Pacific Ocean

- an instrument for measuring the humidity in the air

- heat stress, caused by high temperature, humidity, exercise, and exposure to the sun

- a dangerous decrease in body temperature due to exposure to cold water, low air temperatures, and/or a high wind chill factor that will greatly reduce strength, decision making abilities, and ability to survive

                                                                      - an anchor used for securing a vessel to ice

- a mass of land ice that has broken away from its parent formation on the coast and either floats in the sea or is grounded

- a T-shaped frame on three runners powered by fore-and -aft sails. Very fast, sometimes reaching well over 100mph

- Sea ice covering an area greater than five miles across

- a thick ice formation with level surface extending over the sea but attached to the land

- a serious hazard where cold temperatures (below about -10∞C) combined with high wind speed (typically force 8 or above on the Beaufort scale) result in spray blown off the sea freezing immediately on contact with the ship.

- members of a ship's company not required to serve watches. These were in general specialist tradesmen such as the carpenter and the sailmaker.

- an internationally recognized method of calibrating the stiffness and curve characteristics of sailboarding masts, based around the standard length 465cm mast. Sail manufacturers will provide a recommended IMCS number which lets you know exactly what stiffness and curve of mast best suits a particular sail.

- 1. inward, closer to the centerline of the vessel     See illustration.2. the use of outboard and inboard varies when a vessel is moored to a pier. The side against the pier is inboard; the side away from the pier is outboard.   3. an engine permanently mounted within the hull and whose only parts outside the hull are part of the drive shaft and propeller

- a propulsion system that uses an inboard motor, mounted at the transom, with a propeller assembly, similar to the bottom of an outboard, mounted on the outside of the transom, bolting to the motor with the transom sandwiched between

- a craft that has an inflatable hull and pontoons, or, perhaps, a flat, rubber hull with floorboards and pontoons for the above water hull; frequently used as tenders for larger vessels.   Compare to on this page

- a type of clip for attaching a flag to a flag halyard

- a line passing through the boom head that allows the boom to be attached tightly to the mast of a sailboard

- 1. having turned into the wind or lost the wind, stuck and unable to make headway, and, for lack of momentum and/or steerage, unable to turn off the wind.   Compare to , and .   See

- the temporary situation of a vessel that has enough momentum to complete the turn, when she is pointed directly into the wind during the act of going about.   Compare to , and .

- a vessel's tendency to resist heeling from an upright position

- rules of the road that apply in harbors as well as certain rivers, lakes, canals, and other inland waterways in order to avoid collisions. These vary slightly in wording and in the signals that vessels must use from the COLREGS that are used in outer waters and on the high seas. An entirely different set of rules apply when boats are racing, called the International Yacht Racing Rules and created by the International Yacht Racing Union (IYRU) before 1996, and now, the Racing Rules of Sailing, created by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF).

- a watertight covering, usually small, that may be removed so the interior of the hull can be inspected or water removed

- an international system of signals and codes for use by vessels to communicate important messages regarding safety of navigation and related matters. Signals can be sent by flag hoist (see flags and pennants below right), signal lamp ("Aldis Lamp"), flag semaphore, radiotelegraphy, and radiotelephony.

- a line of longitude approximately 180° opposite Greenwich, England. The passing of the sun over this line each day causes the advancement of the date

- of 40 different flags, each representing a letter of the English alphabet or a number and used to signal from ship to ship by spelling out words, or as single flags with established, standardized meanings.   Compare to and

When flown singly, the flags have the following meanings: - "I have a diver down; keep well clear at slow speed." - With three numerals, azimuth or bearing. - "I am taking in, or discharging, or carrying dangerous goods." (Originally used by the Royal Navy specifically for military explosives.) - "Affirmative." - With three numerals, course in degrees magnetic. - "Keep clear of me; I am maneuvering with difficulty." - With two, four, or six numerals, date. - "I am altering my course to starboard." - "I am disabled; communicate with me." (When flown from an aircraft carrier; "Warning; flight operations underway.") - "I require a pilot." - When made by fishing vessels operating in proximity of the fishing grounds it means: "I am hauling nets." - With four or five numerals, longitude. (The last two numerals denote minutes and the rest degrees.) - "I have a pilot on board." - "I am altering my course to port." - "I am on fire and have dangerous cargo on board: keep well clear of me.", or "I am leaking dangerous cargo." - "I wish to communicate with you." With one numeral, "I wish to communicate with you by..."; 1) Morse signaling by hand-flags or arms; 2) Loud hailer (megaphone); 3) Morse signalling lamp; 4) Sound signals. - In harbor: "The ship is quarantined." At sea: "You should stop your vessel instantly." - With four numerals, latitude. (The first two denote degrees and the rest minutes.) - I am abandoning my vessel. - You are running the risk of going aground. - Anchoring is prohibited. - I need a doctor. - I am not in my correct position (used by a light vessel.) - I request permission to anchor - I require a helicopter. - I am in distress and require immediate assistance. - Keep clear of me; I am maneuvering with difficulty. - I require assistance in the nature of ... - Your navigation lights are not visible. - You should stop your vessel instantly. - I am drifting. - Keep well clear of me. - The harbor is closed to traffic. - SOS/MAYDAY has been canceled. - I am going ahead. - Permission to enter harbor is urgently requested. I have an emergency. - Will you give me my position? - You should not anchor. You are going to foul my anchor - I am going to communicate with your station by means of the International Code of Signals. - Man overboard. Please take action to pick him up. - I require health clearance. - Your signal has been received but not understood. - Please report me to the Coast Guard, New York - Please report me to Lloyds, London. - "My vessel is stopped and making no way through the water." - "Negative." - "Man overboard." (often attached to the man overboard pole on boats). With a sinister hoist, the semaphore flag. - The Blue Peter. In harbor: All persons should report on board as the vessel is about to proceed to sea. At sea: It may be used by fishing vessels to mean: "My nets have come fast upon an obstruction." - "My vessel is 'healthy' and I request free pratique." - "The way is off my ship." - With one or more numerals, distance (range) in nautical miles. - "I am operating astern propulsion." - With one or more numerals, speed in knots. - "Keep clear of me; I am engaged in pair trawling." - With four numerals, local time. (The first two denote hours and the rest minutes.) - "You are running into danger." - "I require assistance." - With one or more numerals, speed in kilometers per hour. - "I require medical assistance." - "Stop carrying out your intentions and watch for my signals." - "I am dragging my anchor." - "I require a tug." - When made by fishing vessels operating in close proximity on the fishing grounds it means: "I am shooting nets." - With one or more numerals, time (UTC). (The first two denote hours and the rest minutes. or flags allow messages with duplicate characters to be signaled without the need for multiple sets of flags. - Repeats the first alphabet flag, numeral flag, numeral pennant, or repeater above or before it in the same hoist. - Repeats the second alphabet flag, numeral flag, numeral pennant, or repeater above or before it in the same hoist. - Repeats the third alphabet flag, numeral flag, numeral pennant, or repeater above or before it in the same hoist. - Repeats the fourth alphabet flag, numeral flag, numeral pennant, or repeater above or before it in the same hoist. or - Indicates receipt of a message from another vessel - or - When in a flag hoist containing numerals, acts as a decimal point. together (No and Yes) - used as a distress signal. - a set of , created by Samuel F. B. Morse in the early 1840s, representing the letters of the alphabet to enable communication for telegraphic transmitters and receivers. Due to its ability to be read by humans without a decoding device and transmitted via many improvised devises like flash lights, tapping on surfaces, reflecting light off mirrors, etc. Morse code is still in use to this day, especially by amateur radio operators.

is the world governing body for the sport of sailing and is in charge of the Olympic Regatta, the sailing events held as part of the Summer Olympics, and is most familiar to sailors for the publishing the Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS) which is the international standard used to control the rights of way of racing sailboats and the framework to which sailboat racing is conducted.

or - See

or - See

- a system of connected canals, rivers, and bays along the Atlantic seaboard, Gulf of Mexico and other coastlines that enable vessels to travel in protected waters without having to go out into the open oceans

- a method of inspecting the underwater parts of a ship while it is still afloat instead of having to dry-dock it for examination of these areas as was conventionally done

- rope yarns or loose ends hanging about the rigging or deck. Their appearance is very unseamanlike.

- the auxiliary engine

- a line on a chart that connects points of equal atmospheric pressure

- lines on a chart indicating points of equal magnetic variation

- an aid to navigation that marks a dangerous obstacle that may be passed on all sides. Use caution when approaching. They are buoys with black and red horizontal bands, may have a letter for identification, and have two black spheres on top. View a downloadable and printable about nightmarks, buoys and other aids to navigation.

- a line on a chart that connects points of equal temperature

                                                                      - safety lines, often steel wire with a plastic jacket, from the bow to the stern on both port and starboard. The Jack Lines are used to clip the safety harness onto to secure the crew to the vessel while giving them the freedom to walk on the deck, especially in foul weather.

- 1. A stay for racing or cruising vessels used to steady the mast against the strain of the gaff.   2. a rope, rod, or batten along the upper side of a yard, gaff, or boom to which a sail is fastened.   3. a rope or rod running vertically on the forward side of the mast on which the yard moves.

- an extension for a gaff on a gaff rigged vessel from which a jack-yard topsail may be flown

- a sailor dressed in 'square rig' with square collar. Formerly with a tarred pigtail

- 1. a hanging ladder having ropes or chains supporting wooden or metal rungs or steps. Also called jack ladder or pilot ladder.   shrouds.

- a

- a forked piece at the end of a gaff or boom, fitting halfway around the mast and held in place by trucks (US) or parrel beads (UK)   Compare to

- an assemblage or combination of tackles, for hoisting or lowering the lower yards of a square rigged ship

- a capstan usually placed between the foremast and mainmast

- debris, that remains afloat or washes ashore, that was jettisoned from a sinking ship.   Compare to and and and

- 1. a reinforced embankment of stonework, concrete, or other solid mass, formed perpendicular to shore on a river, lake, sea, or other navigable water for tying up to and loading and unloading vessels. Used loosely, a dock. 2. a man-made extension of the shoreline running perpendicular to shore, made of stone, concrete, dirt, etc., to take the brunt of wave action and erosion and protect the waters on its lee side; a breakwater. Compare to a , , and .

- a small, single block

- a foresail, a triangle shaped sail forward of the mast that does not reach aft of the mast, as does a genoa

- A spar used to extend the bowsprit.

- 1. a fairlead that is used to control the jib sheet.  : 2. On many modern sailing vessels, the Jib Lead is a fairlead that is mounted on a sliding track that can be adjusted to change the position of the jib sheet slightly forward or aft in order to change the angle that the jib sheet pulls on the clew of the jib; thus, the whole mechanism, track and lead, is referred to as the Jib Lead.

(USA), (Great Brittan) or - a downwind change of tack that makes the bow of the vessel pass through dead downwind.

- an accidental jibe caused by a shift in the wind or by sailing by the lee and having the mainsail backed, forcing the boom to swing across the centerline of the vessel. Also called a "Crash Jibe". Look out for the boom!!! - a flying jibe in which the boom rises, catching on the backstay, and thus cannot swing across the centerline of the vessel. If the backstay doesn't break, the boom may be stuck in a position too high to reach with the sail pushing the vessel over on its side. Most modern cruising and racing vessels have booms to short to catch on the backstay. with Step by Step Instructions and Videos of many sailboarding jibes, tacks, and tricks. - a notification or warning that a jibe (gybe) has been initiated by the helmsman. Watch out for the Boom!!!

- a mast support line that runs from part way down a mast to the bow   Compare to , and

- a method of reducing the area of a sail where the luff is loosened, lowered to its reefing point and hooked, the leech is lowered to the boom and tightened via a leech reefing line, and fastened, but all the reefing points may not be tied. A very fast way to reef a sail. Also called "Slab Reefing."

- the aft sail on the mizzen mast of a yawl or ketch

- The fourth mast, although ships with four or more masts were uncommon, or the aft most mast where it is smallest on vessels of less than four masts. Compare to

- 1. a light boat carried at the stern of a sailing vessel and used as a tender for the larger vessel.   2. a small pleasure sailboat for use in sheltered waters.

- the larger of the headsails

- all encompassing term for the jumper struts and jumper stays

- two stays on the upper part of a mast that run over the ends of the and form a diamond shape at the top of the mast to add structural integrity against the rearward pull of the backstay. These look like they ought to be called "Jumper Shrouds", but since they are actually structurally involved in the fore-and-aft support of the mast, they are technically "Stays"

- short spreaders on opposite sides of the mast on larger fractional rigged vessels, just above the forestay and angled slightly forward, and over which the jumper stays run, that help the upper portion of the mast resist the pull of the backstay

- a marking the crossing of two channels or two parts of a channel, when proceeding from seaward

- 1. old hemp or jute rope, past its useful service life as lines aboard ship. The strands of old junk were teased apart in the process called "picking ", used for caulking gaps between planks in the hull and on decks.   2. a type of

- a replacement for a broken mast. See Jury Rigging

- makeshift repairs or temporary contrivances, made with only the tools and materials that happen to be on hand.

- one of the cheapest natural fibers available to make rope from and has been used for that purpose for centuries; or, if you've ever brought a burlap or gunny sack aboard, you've used jute. You don't see much jute used for small rope on vessels now, but you may see it in use as large hawsers.   See

                                                                      - to wind old rope around the anchor line, to preserve its surface from being worn or cut, or to wind iron chains around, to defend from the friction of a rocky bottom, or from ice.

- any old rope wound about a cable, to preserve the surface of the cable from chafing against the ship's bow or bottom

- 1.a small anchor   2. to repeatedly place a small anchor away from a vessel and then pull the vessel to the anchor; as when moving against a strong current or pulling a vessel off a reef or shoal.   Compare to

- a vertical fin down the centerline of the bottom of the hull. On most larger boats, the keel is the central structural basis of the hull and will have built-in ballast. The keel is the first part of the structure laid down in the building of a vessel.

- in small boats, a timber attached on top of the keel to provide a surface to which the garboard strakes may be fastened. Also called a Hogging Piece.

- 1. maritime punishment by dragging under the keel of a ship. The sailor had lines attached to his body that would be walked down each side of the vessel after the man was thrown overboard at the bow, then he was hauled in at the stern; or sometimes dragged from one side of the vessel to the other under the keel. Many did not survive drowning or being torn to shreds by barnacles attached to the hull.   2. Today keelhauling may refer to spinnaker sheets getting stuck under the hull after dousing the sail. This occurs frequently in dinghy sailboats such as Laser 2 because nothing prevents the sheet from being pulled under the bow.

- a mast that is stepped (placed) on the keel at the bottom of the boat rather than on the deck. Keel stepped masts are considered sturdier than deck stepped masts, but often get in the way inside the cabin on smaller vessels

- a weight or small anchor suspended from the anchor rode to help keep the pull on the anchor as horizontal as possible to prevent dragging in foul weather. Also called a sentinel or anchor angel.

- the fore-and-aft timber immediately above and bolted to, the keel of a large wooden ship to strengthen the hull longitudinally. Also called the "false keel or apron."

- a two-masted ship with its foremost mast being its main mast and a smaller mast mounted forward of the rudder post.   Compare to other on this page

- a sturdy cleat, bit, or bollard, etc., on which a ship's hawser may be secured

- an expensive synthetic fiber that has been used successfully in some racing sailboat's sails. Its fibers have the tensile strength of steel and virtually no stretch. However, its brittleness and tendency to deteriorate in sunlight need to be overcome before it will become every sailors tool.

- one of a chain of small low lying tropical islands composed of coral or sand. Same as "Cay".

- a very small outboard motor

- See

- a centerboard or rudder may be "Kick-up", meaning that it will rotate back and upward when it hits an obstacle. Handy in shallow water or when running to the beach. A will not "kick-up".

- a small anchor. A fouled killick is the substantive badge of non-commissioned officers in the British Royal Navy. Seamen promoted to the first step in the promotion ladder are called 'Killick'. The badge signifies that here is an Able Seaman skilled to cope with the awkward job of dealing with a fouled anchor.

- A measure of speed. 1 kph = .62 mph.

- the centerline plank of a laid deck. Its sides are often recessed, or nibbed, to take the ends of their parallel curved deck planks.

- the top, center spoke on a vessel's steering wheel when the rudder is centered, often decorated with whipping so that it can be identified in the dark by the feel of it.

- the curl of a rope that is twisted too hard, or drawn hastily out of the coil

- another name for

- a triangular block of wood that connects two parts roughly at right angles, eg. deck beams to hull frames or sternpost to keel

- vertical timbers on either side of the stem that add strength to the bowsprit and extra backing to the planks just abaft the stem

- a knot intended to stop fraying of small line (not used on hawsers) or unreeving of a line or add a handhold

- See at on this page

- a circumstance where a vessel is laid over on its beam ends by the wind or waves far enough for water to come over the gunwale

- 1. a unit of wind or sailing speed, one knot=6,076 feet per hour, one nautical mile per hour. 10 knots is equivalent to 11.5 mph and 18 kilometers per hour (kph). (Note: The expression "knots per hour" is incorrect since that would be redundant and describe acceleration not speed; knots per hour per hour.) (The term "Knot" is derived from the fact that sailing ships of old used a sizable chip log in the shape of an equilateral triangle thrown overboard and attached to a reel with a line that had strips of cloth attached at forty seven and one half foot intervals to determine a ship's speed. An hourglass that recorded twenty eight seconds was started when the log hit the water and as the ship moved past the log it pulled the line off the reel, the number of knots or strips of cloth were counted. If seven and a half markers ran out, the speed of the boat was approximately 7.5 Knots...or they could use 50.5 foot spaced knots and a 30 second hourglass...you get the picture.)   2. In general, all complications tied in cordage where one line or part of a line passes over or around and/or through another, except accidental ones, such as tangles, snarls and kinks, and complications adapted to storage, such as coils, hanks, skeins, balls, etc. In a narrower sense, knots do not include bends, hitches, splices, and sinnetts. In the narrowest sense, only knobs, intended to stop fraying or unreeving of a line or add a handhold, are knots. Eight of the most important knots for a mariner to know are: ; ; ; ; ; ; ; and the or Taut-line Hitch

- This is the far end that is attached to something. This term evolved from tying the end of the anchor rode to the but it could be the end of your bow painter that is tied to the boat. - This is the end that you are with and are going to tie a knot in because it is to with.       The rest of the rope or line: - This is that 10 - 15 feet of rope that is inactive, between the part that you are going to tie the knot in (Free End or Working End) and the far end (Bitter End). - This is any central part of the rope that is not the ends or the standing part.       Perhaps remembering will help remembering the difference between the first three (which are not knots) on this list. The amount of curve in the line increases from Bight to Loop to Turn. - a curve in a line no greater than a semicircle. This is not a knot, but may be used to create one. - a curve in a line greater than a semicircle and in which the ends do not cross. This is not a knot, but may be used to creat one. - a U-shaped loop in which the ends are separated - a loop in which the ends touch but do not cross - a curve in a line making a complete circle and in which the ends cross. This is not a knot, but may be used to create one. - a curve in a line that makes two complete circles and in which the ends cross. This is not a knot, but may be used to create one. - a section of rope that passes on top of another section of rope, often parallel or at only a slight angle to the section below. Examples of riding turns can be seen in both the Constrictor knot and the Strangle knot. The second course of wrappings in some seizing knots can be referred to as riding turns. The formation of an unintentional riding turn on a sailing winch can cause it to jam. - an actual knot that ties two lines together - a knot that secures a rope or line to another object, as a stanchion or bollard - used to stop fraying or unreeving of a line or add a handhold. - the simplest knot, knob, and stopper knot, used to keep a rope from unraveling, passing through a hole, or to create a hand-hold on a line. It should be used judiciously, however, because, although it is very secure, it is also very permanent and hard to untie. The Overhand Knot is one of the eight knots everyone should know. - formed to keep a rope from slipping through a hole or handhold. - the simplest knot, knob, and stopper knot, used to keep a rope from unraveling, passing through a hole, or to create a hand-hold on a line. It should be used judiciously, however, because, although it is very secure, it is also very permanent and hard to untie. The Overhand Knot is one of the eight knots everyone should know. - a very good stopper knot, used to keep a line from passing through a block or fairlead. Although it will pull down tight, it is significantly easier to untie than an overhand knot. One of the eight knots everyone should know. - join two lines by intertwining them, without splicing, or sewing. - a simple bend used to tie two lines together, identical in structure to the bowline, except it ties two lines together instead of tying a loop in one line. The Sheet Bend is one of the eight most useful knots a sailor needs to know. - used to tie up lines for storage. - a knot that secures a rope or line to an object and is tied directly around or to that object, as a stanchion or bollard. Many hitches capsize (fall apart) if removed from the object to which they are tied. - a simple hitch and a loop knot used to tie a fixed loop at the end of a line, identical in structure to the sheet bend, except it is tied in one line instead of tying two together. It is simple, strong, virtually slip proof, and easy to untie if not under strain. The bowline is one of the eight most useful knots a sailor needs to know. - a simple hitch used to tie a line to a post. Effective in its purpose, but spills easily. It should be finished with at least one half hitch over the standing end of the line, if not two. The is one of the eight most useful knots a sailor needs to know. - a simple, but dependable hitch with many uses. Two Half Hitches is one of the eight most useful everyone should know. - a hitch to use when you need to periodically adjust the length of a line under tension. The is one of the eight easy all people should know. - much like hitches. They are used to bind either lines or objects together. Their aim is to keep objects bundled or in place. - a simple binding knot, used to tie two ends of a single line together such that they will secure something; like a sail to a boom (reefing), or a bundle of small objects together. This knot should not be used to two lines together, as it can easily capsize or slip. The is one of the eight knots everyone should know. - describes the act of joining the ends, or the end and a standing part, of rope by interweaving strands. They are not knots in themselves. - a method for interweaving the strands of rope or cable in order to join two lines in a short distance. A short splice increases the diameter of a line significantly and may jam going through a block. - a method of joining two ropes or cables by interweaving the strands of rope without increasing the diameter. A long splice will go through a block without jamming. It is not as strong as a short splice, but keep in mind, long splices are what hold the cables together on overhead gondolas and trams at ski resorts, so they can be pretty strong; the longer the splice, the stronger. - an end section of rope that has been unlayed, reversed, and woven back into itself in order to keep it from unraveling and add weight to the end. - a fixed loop in the end of a line made by doubling a line back on itself and either interweaving the strands back into the lay of the rope, or tucking the end of a double-braided line back into the core. - used to hold spars or poles together. - serve the same purpose as hitches, but are tied in hand and placed around an object instead of being tied directly to the object. They are used to tie, or secure, a line to another line or an object. They can be formed at the end or midway in a length of rope. - a simple hitch and a loop knot used to tie a fixed loop at the end of a line, identical in structure to the sheet bend, except it is tied in one line instead of tying two together. It is simple, strong, virtually slip proof, and easy to untie if not under strain. The bowline is one of the eight most useful knots a sailor needs to know. - weaving several lines together to form a pattern and a cohesive structure. - a binding knot tied with small line on the end of a larger line, used to prevent the end of the larger line from fraying. - used to hold two lines or two parts of the same line together. - used as part of a magic trick or a puzzle. - knots that have decorative, dress or multiple category characteristics. For animated "How To" drawings of many knots, see at Marine News and click on "Rope Knots" in the Blue Horizontal Rule. - being familiar with the miles of cordage and ropes involved in running a ship.

                                                                      - On board a ship, all "stairs" are called ladders, except for literal staircases aboard passenger ships. Most "stairs" on a ship are narrow and nearly vertical, hence the name

- cargo or equipment thrown into the sea but attached to a float or buoy so that it can be recovered.   Compare to and and and

- 1. a surface created by bonding multiple layers together.   2. to create a single surface by bonding multiple layers together

-

- A person unfamiliar with the ways of the sea

(Make Landfall) - the first sighting of land when coming in from the sea. Compare to

- 1. a line attached to any small object for the purpose of securing the object to something else   2. a line that reeves through a deadeye

May also be spelled "Langridge"- A type of cannon shot, fired at close range, consisting of scrap iron, i.e. nuts, bolts, nails, etc., bound together or loaded into a case and used in early naval warfare to damage an opponent's sails and rigging. Compare to: , ,

- a foresail which extends back of and overlapping the mast, such as a 110% genoa jib

- See   Compare to

- Port. Left side of the ship when looking forward. Archaic form using Starboard and Larboard.   See illustration.

- an isosceles triangular sail set on a long yard mounted at an angle on the short mast, and running in a fore-and-aft direction at approximately 45°. The angled yard allows the head of the sail to be well above the height of the mast and a modern modification is to add a boom to the foot of the sail. The lateen sail pivots around the mast and will have a "bad tack".   Compare to

- the resistance to the leeway or sideways movement, determined by the amount of heel and keel or centerboard below the waterline and the angle of the keel

- 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 (usually upstream)

- the angular distance from the equator, measured northward or southward, along a meridian from 0° at the equator to 90° at the poles. It is designated or to indicate the direction of measurement and expressed in Degrees, Minutes and Seconds. Compare to

- 1. to move a vessel from land to water.   2. a rather large, open motorboat used to move people and stores from land or dock to a moored boat or ship

- the of a twisted (not braided) rope or cable is the direction in which its strands are twisted, right handed or clockwise (Z-twist), or left handed or counter-clockwise (S-twist); usually right handed. Braided line has no lay since strands go both clockwise and counter-clockwise.

- to be able to sail to a mark without having to tack.

- to begin construction on a vessel in a shipyard

- a downwind change of direction in which the sailor carves the board hard, positions the sail almost on the water (lays down) on the inside of the turn, and leans well over the sail during the first portion of the middle of the turn, before flipping the sail  

- imaginary lines forming a "V" downwind from a windward mark and that lead to the windward mark on port and starboard tacks without sailing further than necessary. In racing, you should stay between the lay lines to get to the windward mark. Sailing outside them means you have "overstood" the mark and waisted distance.

- spaces below the deck that are designed for storage

- lines from topping lifts to under the boom which act as a net to catch the sails when lowered

- See Leech below. pronounced "Led" - a weight attached to a line and used to measure the depth of water.

pronounced "Leed" - a long, narrow, navigable passage through pack ice, between rocks, or shoals, etc.

- a unit of length, normally equal to three nautical miles

- a protective covering on the portion of an that sits in the oarlock or thole pins. Usually made of leather, but sometimes of canvas.

- a shortened version of leeward. All of the area downwind of the centerline of a watercraft.

- pivoting board(s) on either side of a sailboat that does not have a hole in the bottom for a centerboard or daggerboard; which serve the same function as a centerboard. The board to leeward is dropped, the board to windward is kept up. They must be raised and lowered as the craft jibes or tacks.

or -1. the aft or trailing edge of a fore-and-aft sail, triangular or quadrilateral   2. the leeward edge of a spinnaker; 3.

- a small line running through the tabling on the leech of a sail that can be tightened to reduce the fluttering of the trailing edge of the sail in certain conditions. Don't forget to loosen it when it is not needed!   Also called a "Pucker Line" or "Pucker String".

- a strong, thin line running inside the leech of a sail to add tension, or cup, to the leech.

- a cloth hung on the lee side of a berth (the down side when the boat has heel to it, to keep one from rolling out of their bunk

- a tendency of a vessel with poorly trimmed sails to continually turn downwind on its own or if the helm is released.     Opposite of Weather Helm.   See

- the side of a vessel sheltered from the wind; opposite of Weather Side or Windward Side

- the shore downwind of a ship. A ship which cannot sail well to windward risks being blown onto a lee shore and grounded.

- downwind. All of the area downwind of the centerline of a watercraft.

- the amount that a vessel is blown leeward (downwind) by the wind.   Compare to , , , , , , , and

- stranded (rather than braided) rope made with a twist to the left; called "S-Twist". Most rope is Right-Hand Lay; called "Z-Twist"

- the title and explanation of symbols on a chart, map, illustration, diagram, etc.

- a straight line measurement of the length of a vessel at the waterline. This length changes as a vessel is loaded and sits lower in the water and is usually much shorter than the Length Over All. Originally Abbreviated "w/l", or "LWL".

- a straight line measurement of the length of a vessel's weather deck. Abbreviated "LOD".

- a straight line measurement of the maximum length of a vessel from the two points on the hull (does not include the bowsprit) most distant from each other. Abbreviated "LOA","oa", "o/a", or "o.a.".

- the weaker of the two ebb currents occurring in a tidal day

- the weaker of the two flood currents occurring in a tidal day

- a government license authorizing a person (known as a privateer) to attack and capture enemy vessels and bring them before admiralty courts for condemnation and sale.   Also see and

- to remain in practically the same position without anchoring. This may be done in a sailing vessel by or .

- 1. A small, shipboard boat, kept on board a larger vessel and used to take crew and passengers to safety in the event of the ship being abandoned.   2. A rescue boat, usually launched from shore, used to rescue people from the water or from vessels in difficulty.

- a flotation device, often in the shape of a ring or horseshoe that should be thrown overboard and as close as possible to a person that has fallen off a vessel and into the water, to help them stay afloat until rescued. Next, throw the Overboard Pole near them to mark the location.

- a cable fence that surrounds the deck to assist in the prevention of crew falling overboard

- a flotation vest, coat, belt, ring, or cushion worn to increase your chance of survival in the water. Also called a Personal Flotation Device or PFD

- an inflatable, covered raft, used to escape to safety, in the event of a vessel being abandoned.

- a circular flotation device that should be thrown overboard and as close as possible to a person that has fallen off a vessel and into the water, to help them stay afloat until rescued. Next, throw the Overboard Pole near them to mark the location.

- 1. a shift in wind direction away from the bow of the vessel, thus allowing a vessel that is beating to windward to head up again, thus fetching the mark easier. Opposite of a Header.   2. the force created by a keel, daggerboard, centerboard, leeboard, or fin that allows the vessel to sail upwind.   3.

- see - a beacon with a light attached to it to help see and identify it at night. View a downloadable and printable about nightmarks, buoys and other aids to navigation.

- wind that moves at 12 mph (10 knots) (18 kph) or less. Good winds for using a Genoa, instead of a jib, on a knockabout or sloop   See

- a flat-bottomed boat for carrying heavy loads across short distances (especially for canals or for loading or unloading larger boats).

- a sturdy, distinctive structure exhibiting a major navigational light. View a downloadable and printable about nightmarks, buoys and other aids to navigation.

- a distinctively marked vessel anchored or moored at a charted point to serve as an aid to navigation. It has a characteristic light or lights, and usually other aids. View a downloadable and printable about nightmarks, buoys and other aids to navigation.

- air that moves at 12 mph (10 knots) (19 kph) or less and is good for and beginners learning to sail a sailboard.   See .

- a set of sails for use in low velocity breezes and racing; also called "Racing Sails". See on this page or at Wikipedia.org

- a dense tropical wood typically used in the manufacture of blocks, deadeyes, and other heavy-stress marine fittings before metal replaced it

- 1. the graduated, curved part of an instrument for measuring angles.   2. the circular outer edge of a celestial body, particularly with respect to the top (upper limb) or bottom (lower limb)

- notches cut in the lower edges of frames so that water can drain to the lowest part of the ship (Bilge) in order to be pumped out

- the correct nautical term for rope or cordage aboard ship. A line will always have a more specific name, such as "mizzen topsail halyard" or "mainsheet", which describes its specific use. Line is made from many natural and synthetic fibers including: , , , , , , and - a Ship of the Line: a major warship capable of taking its place in the main (battle) line of fighting ships. Hence, the modern term for most prestigious passenger vessels

- an ambiguous name for either a or a

- a set of line drawings showing the shape of a hull as delineated by the sections, buttocks, waterlines, and diagonals and usually including a profile, half-breadth view, body plan, and a table of offsets.   Compare to

- a staff with a fork at one end to hold a lighted slow match. Linstocks were used for discharging cannons in the early days of artillery; the linstock allowed the gunner to stand farther from the cannon as it was dangerous applying the lighted match to the touch hole at the breech of the gun.

- the lip of a wave is the crest, where it is curling over and breaking.

- the leaning of a boat to the side because of excess weight on that side

- a short line with a loop or small block through which another line may be run, that is easily attached where needed

-

- the designed waterline of a boat to which it is expected to sit when fully equipped and at its maximum load.

- (British) thick porridge or gruel, especially eaten by sailors onboard ship

- (British) a boy or man acting as a medical orderly onboard ship

- the meridian through any particular place or observer

- an enclosed chamber in a canal, dam, etc., with gates at each end, for raising or lowering vessels from one level to another by admitting or releasing water.

- a storage compartment on board a vessel

-

- to scale up and draw a full sized lines plan on a large floor in preparation to construction of a vessel. The final drawing is called the "lofting".

- 1. a device for measuring the speed or distance, or both, traveled by a vessel. See and   2. a

- 1. an iron ball attached solidly to a long handle, used for driving caulking into seams and (occasionally) in a fight. Hence: 'at loggerheads'.   2. a rounded post, in the stern of a whaleboat, around which the harpoon line is passed.

- a sailboard that is more than 11 feet (336 cm) long

- is the arc of a parallel or the angle at the pole between the prime meridian, which passes through Greenwich, England, and the meridian of a point on the earth, measured eastward or westward from the prime meridian through 180°. It is designated or to indicate the direction of measurement and expressed in Degrees, Minutes and Seconds. Compare to

- a method of joining two ropes or cables by interweaving the strands of rope without increasing the diameter. A long splice will go through a block without jamming, but it is not as strong as a short splice.

- an admonition to be alert

- the round shaft of an

- 1.a curve in a line narrower than a semicircle, but with the ends not crossed. Compare to and  

- 1. An unsecured cannon on deck and weighing thousands of pounds, would crush anything and anyone in its path, and possibly even break a hole in the hull, thus endangering the seaworthiness of the whole ship, thus...   2. An irresponsible and reckless individual whose behavior (either intended or unintended) endangers the group to which he or she belongs.

- a sail that is not connected to a boom along its foot; also, foot loose

- to unfurl sails and prepare them for use

- (LOng RAnge Navigation) a radio navigation system which enables ships and aircraft to determine their position and speed from low frequency radio signals transmitted by fixed land based radio beacons to a ship's receiver unit. The most recent version of LORAN in use was LORAN-C, which operated in the low frequency (LF) portion of the radio spectrum from 90 to 110 kHz. In recent decades, LORAN use has been phased out in the United States and Canada. The United States Coast Guard (USCG) and Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) ceased transmitting LORAN-C (and joint CHAYKA (Russian version)) signals in 2010, with the satellite-based Global Positioning System (GPS) being the primary replacement. However, there have been attempts to enhance and re-popularize LORAN, mainly to serve as a backup and land-based alternative to GPS and other satellite navigation systems. There are times of the day (near sunrise and sunset), and locales, like the Virgin Islands, that LORAN is not accurate. or Tide - the lower of two high tides occurring during a tidal day

or Tide - the lower of two low tides occurring during a tidal day

- the pair of support lines that run from the chain plates at the sides of the boat to just below the spreaders

- the minimum height reached by a falling or receding tide

- the difference between the height of the two low tides in a tidal day

or - a fixed vertical line inside a compass case indicating the direction of the ship's bow and corresponding to the vessel's centerline. This indicates where the vessel is pointed, but because of leeway caused by wind, or movement caused by currents, it is not necessarily the direction you are traveling.

- 1. the front edge of a sail   2. Loosening a sheet so far past optimal trim that the sail is no longer completely filled with wind.   3. the flapping of the sail (luffing) from having wind traveling down each side at the same velocity because the vessel is pointed too high on the wind or the sail is let out too far

- to steer a sailing vessel more towards the direction of the wind until the pressure is eased on the sheet

- See lugsail

- See at on this page

- a quadrilateral sail set on a yard, whose halyard is secured closer to one yardarm than the other, thus making the yard set with one end higher than the other and the sail fly fore-and-aft, and whose fore end of the yard is not attached to the mast; as in gaff rigged sails. There are three sorts of lugsail: the standing lug, in which the yard remains on one side of the mast and the tack is set close to the mast, the balance lug (often, incorrectly, balanced lug), which resembles the standing lug, but sets a boom, which continues as far forward of the mast as the leading edge of the yard, and the dipping lug in which the yard is dipped around the mast when going about so that the sail draws away from the mast on each tack.   See more at at Wikipedia.org

- a temporary calm in the wind

- the extreme distance at which a light can be seen when limited only by the intensity of the light, clearness of the atmosphere, and sensitivity of the observer's eyes

- a small anchor too small for permanent anchoring

-

- waiting out a storm by dousing all sails and simply letting the boat drift. Usually very uncomfortable and many times, dangerous

                                                                      - the room for storage of munitions and powder

- the horizontal direction of a celestial point from a terrestrial point, relative to magnetic north

- an absolute bearing using rather than as a reference. See also: , , , and

- in the direction of the northern pole of the earth's magnetic field which differs from True North, the northern point of the earth's axis. The two points are not geographically the same and thus cause in compass readings that need compensation as a vessel moves about the seas. Compare to

- violent, extended disruptions of the earth's magnetic fields caused by solar flares

- the tallest mast on a sailing vessel

- the largest upwind sail on a vessel's main mast

- the line that controls the boom on a mainsail

- the action of securing an object or line to something

- to set the sail or sails of a boat or increase the amount of sail already set

or Manilla - a natural fiber that ropes can be made of similar to hemp; largely replaced by synthetic fibers, but you'll still see lots of large hawsers made of this fiber. Manila is a strong fiber that comes from the leaf stems of the abaca plant, a part of the banana family. Varying in length from 4 to 15 feet in their natural state, the fibers have the length and quality which gives manila rope relatively high elasticity, strength, and resistance to wear and deterioration.   See

- any warship, regardless of size or configuration, from the

 

- a long pole, that should be within reach of the helmsman, that is tossed into the water immediately after the life buoy or ring, when anyone falls into the water off a boat in order to place a highly visible marker in close proximity of the man overboard. The pole is wood or hollow in order to float, has a colored flag, often the "A" (Alpha) flag, or bright upper tip and is weighted at the bottom just enough to make the pole stand on end while floating in the water.

- another name for where the mainsail is triangular, rigged fore-and-aft with the luff fixed to the mast. Refers to the similarity of the tall mast to a radio aerial.

- a docking facility for small boats and yachts

- typically defined as any man-made object discarded, disposed of, or abandoned that enters the coastal or marine environment. It may enter directly from a ship, or indirectly when washed out to sea via rivers, streams and storm drains.   Compare to and and and

- a combined transmitter and receiver and only operates on standard, international frequencies known as channels. Channel 16 (156.8 MHz) is the international calling and distress channel. Channel 9 can also be used in some places as a secondary call and distress channel. Installed on all large ships and most seagoing small craft, it is used for a wide variety of purposes, including summoning rescue services and communicating with harbors, locks, bridges and marinas, and operates in the VHF frequency range, between 156 to 174 MHz. Although it is widely used for collision avoidance, its use for this purpose is contentious and is strongly discouraged by some countries, including the UK.

- a track system in marinas, used to haul boats out of the water or to launch them

- of or relating to the seas, navigation, shipping, etc.

- law that relates to commerce and navigation on the high seas and other navigable waters and that is administered by the admiralty courts

- a buoy or other object that a racing vessel must leave on a designated side

- light, two-stranded line, formerly made of hemp and sometimes tarred, used for whipping, seizing, serving, and lacing

- a tool used in rope work for tasks such as unlaying rope for splicing, untying knots, or forming a makeshift handle. A marlinspike is basically a rod or bar tapered to a rounded or flattened point, usually 6 to 12 inches long, although sometimes 26" or longer, depending on what ply and size of rope they are intended for.   Compare to

- a general term for handling and caring for fiber line and wire rope used aboard ship or in other marine operations

- to unlay the strands of two lines and interlace them prior to splicing them

- a stay underneath and holding the bowsprit down and running over the end of the dolphin striker in order to counteract the force of the forestay.

- the usually vertical, aluminum, fiberglass, carbon-fiber, or wooden spar that supports the sail and rigging of a sailing vessel. There is no standard name for a fifth mast on a ship-rigged vessel (though this may be called the spanker mast on a barque, schooner or barquentine). Sixth and seventh masts have no standard naming protocol. - a connection on a sailboard that has one or two male studs that fit into the mast track to attach the mast to the sailboard via the universal joint

- a tube attached to the mast base of a sailboard, above the Universal Joint, that is usually adjustable in length, in order to allow the mast to be adjusted to accommodate sails of various sizes (luff length)

- 1. a small platform partway up the mast, just above the height of the mast's main yard. A lookout is stationed here, and men who are working on the main yard will embark from here.   See also   2. the top of the mast

- a wind direction indicator mounted atop the mast. The best indicator of true wind direction when your vessel is not moving and the apparent wind direction when under way.

- a fore-and-aft sail configuration consisting of a foresail, such as a or sail, that reaches all the way to the top of the mast; as opposed to a fractional rig, which does not.   See two sailboats photograph at the for a comparison.

- a metal casing that may hold the base of the mast in place

- The apertures in the deck-partners for stepping the masts

- a ring, usually of wood, that fits around the mast in order to hold the luff of a sail in place and allow the luff to slide up and down the mast as the sail is raised or struck

- a small, partial sleeve that fits around the mast of a sailboard at the point where the boom is connected to reinforce the mast and spread the stresses created by the boom on the mast

- a tapered pocket in the luff of a sailboard sail in which the mast resides

- the box on a sailing vessel that the base of a mast is set into

- a tube that slips over the masthead on a sailboard in order to lengthen the mast to accommodate sails of various sizes (luff length)

- 1. a groove in a mast that the bolt rope of a sail slides into to raise and lower sail   2. a rail attached to the aft edge of a mast on which sliders on the luff of the sail move up and down as the sail is raised and lowered  

- the highest speed of an ebb current

- the highest speed of a flood current

- a distress call indicating a person or vessel is in grave and imminent danger and needs immediate rescue or assistance. The word "Mayday" should be repeated three times and then the location of the boat should be given along with information about the assistance needed. For further information see:   Compare to and

- a reference point used as a standard for determining terrestrial and atmospheric elevation or ocean depths and calculated as the average of hourly tide levels measured by mechanical tide gauges over extended periods of time. For more information about sea levels and tide levels, see

- the arithmetic midpoint between mean high water and mean low water.   This level is not identical with mean sea level because of higher harmonics in the tidal constituents.

- the sharp, broken individual wire strands in a wire rope or cable; so named because of the ferocity with which they rip or puncture skin. Also called "fishhooks" or "burrs". One or two meathooks can be cleaned off the wire by rubbing up and down the line with a knife perpendicular to the line. The meathooks aren't being cut with the blade but break off at the surface because they are being bent back and forth until they break. If a line has more than a very few meat hooks, it should be replaced.

- mechanical method of increasing an applied force. Disregarding the effects of friction, if a force of 100 pounds applied to a is magnified to a force of 400 pounds, the purchase or mechanical advantage is said to be four to one, or 4:1.   See

- a great circle that passes through the earth's geographical poles and at right angles to the equator. A line of longitude. The prime meridian passes through Greenwich England (0° longitude).

- 1. the area aboard ship where meals are eaten   2. a group of crew who live and eat together

- 1, a light line either thrown or shot from one vessel to another or from ship to shore in order to pull a heavier line that is too heavy to throw. See 2. This was a continuous loop of cable or chain which would go around the capstan. The main anchor cable or chain would then be attached to the messenger for hauling using some temporary connection such as ropes called nippers. These would be attached and detached as the anchor was weighed and, by doing this efficiently, a continuous hoist could be done, without any need for stopping or surging. As ships and their anchors grew in size, the anchor cable or chain would be too big to go around the capstan. Also, a wet cable or chain would be difficult to manage. A messenger would then be used as an intermediate device.

- a change in water level due to meteorological (atmospheric or weather) conditions.   Also called or

- a unit of length that is 100 centimeters. To convert meters to feet, multiply by 3.28

or Taut-line Hitch - a to use when you need to periodically adjust the length of a line under tension. The is one of the eight easy all people should know.

- measurement of speed; 10 mph is equivalent to 16 kph and 9 knots.

- to fail to get about when an attempt is made to go about. You may end up , or, simply, fall back onto the old tack.   Compare to , and .

- the third mast on a ship, the shorter mast behind the main mast on a ketch or yawl or the sail set on that mast

- wind that moves at 12 to 24 mph (10 - 20 knots) (18 - 36 kph). Good winds for a Working Jib on a knockabout or sloop learning to sail a sailboard..   See

- air that moves at 12 to 24 mph (10 - 20 knots) (18 - 36 kph)

- wooden sectional patterns, set on stations across the keel, around which planks are bent to obtain the precise shape of a vessel

- 1. a massive structure, especially of stone, set up in the water, as for a breakwater or a pier.   2. an anchorage or harbor protected by such a structure.

- a strong, rust-resistant metal alloy consisting of approximately 67% nickel, 28% copper, and 5% iron and manganese, and used for fastenings, propellers, and parts of metal instruments

- a false deck built over a permanent deck. Often used in the bow of larger sailing ships, forward of the anchor windlass and provides a working platform around the portion of the bowsprit as it attaches to the ship

- a ball woven out of line used to provide heft to heave the line to another location. The monkey fist and other heaving-line knots were sometimes weighted with lead to facilitate more distance of the throw

- a safety line made up with a series of overhand or figure eight knots evenly spaced to assist personnel climbing up and down

- a strong, clear, plasticized sail cloth that is used in most modern sailboard sails

- a vessel with a single hull, as opposed to a multi-hull boat like a catamaran, proa, trimaran, etc.

- to be attached to a mooring. A large ship is said to be when it is lying with two anchors down.

- 1. an anchor or weight, permanently lying on the sea floor, with a buoy attached at the surface, used to hold the boat in a certain area.   2. an arrangement for attaching a boat to a pier or wharf

- a line permanently attached to a mooring buoy for securing a vessel to the mooring

- a boat that has a small to significant amount of sail, but whose primary propulsion is via motorized means. These are usually based around a sailing cruiser hull, but instead of the low 'coachroof' over the saloon, most motor-sailers have a raised saloon roof, providing an enclosed wheelhouse with large windows and containing the helm, engine controls, navigational equipment etc, allowing the vessel to be operated from inside as on a standard cabin cruiser motorboat. Usually, a second helm and basic instruments are installed in the cockpit behind the wheelhouse for when under sail or in good weather. Motor-sailers are, naturally, a compromise between a sailing yacht and a motor yacht; not good at either one.

- turns of twine, or other small line, around the opening of a hook to prevent unhooking

- any of several designs of vessel with more than one hull; catamaran, trimaran, proa, etc.

- in larger sizes, usually a heavy mooring anchor that will sink into a soft bottom, this anchor is desirable because it has no stock to snag on an anchor line; it is all shank and cup or upside down mushroom shape. Small versions are frequently used for small fishing boats, prams and dinghies.

                                                                      - the point on the celestial sphere exactly opposite or vertically below the observer, or 180° from the zenith

- a federal agency in charge of disseminating weather information and nautical charts for the U.S.A.; a great resource for weather information at

- North Atlantic Treaty Organization

-fah -voh -lee -tah -oh -trot -tel -dee-ah -lee-ett -loh -mah -ber -cah -mee-oh -rah -go -nee-form -tah -key -ray -key -loo -ro -wer -en -er -dred -sand - the most widely used spelling alphabet. Though often called "phonetic alphabets", spelling alphabets have no connection to phonetic transcription systems like the International Phonetic Alphabet. Instead, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) alphabet assigns code words to the letters of the English alphabet acrophonically (Alfa for A, Bravo for B, etc.(See below)) so that critical combinations of letters (and numbers) can be pronounced and understood by those who transmit and receive voice messages by radio or telephone regardless of their native language, especially when the safety of navigation or persons is essential. The paramount reason is to ensure intelligibility of voice signals over radio links. The code words are: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, Echo, Foxtrot, Golf, Hotel, India, Juliet, Kilo, Lima, Mike, November, Oscar, Papa, Quebec, Romeo, Sierra, Tango, Uniform, Victor, Whiskey, X-ray, Yankee, Zulu

- an annual publication, jointly published by the U.S. Naval Observatory and H.M. Nautical Almanac Office, containing tables of celestial bodies, their positions and movements at specific times, consulted by the navigator in preparation for taking sightings of celestial bodies. Such tables were known as "The Ephemeris" from the 18th C. until 1981 when it was jointly published by the US and Britain; also the Astronomical Almanac.

- a measurement of distance that is equal to 1852 Meters (1.852 Kilometers), 6,076.11549 U.S.feet, or 1.151 Statute (Land Measurement) Miles or .333333333 Nautical League or 1,012.689143 Fathoms

- See

- an urgent notice of dangers to navigation in the Eastern Atlantic or Mediterranean waters

- water with sufficient depth to permit a vessel to pass without running aground

- that half of a cyclonic storm area to the of the storm track in the northern hemisphere, and to the of the storm track in the southern hemisphere. In this semicircle the winds are weaker and tend to blow a vessel away from the path of the storm.

- the art and science of moving a vessel safely from one point to another

- lights shown by a vessel at night that show its course, position, and status; such as anchored, fishing, or towing

- the four planets commonly used for sightings in celestial navigation; Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn

- Rules of the road that provide guidance on how to avoid collision and also used to assign blame when a collision does occur.   See

- a lock that, after being partially emptied, is opened suddenly to send a boat over a shallow place with a rush of water. Also called a, staunch or stanch, or flash-lock.

- a lower produced when the sun and moon are at a right angle in relation to the earth, as at 1st or 3rd quarter, and their total effect is lesser.   Compare to

- a person who has done something. A neophyte, rookie, etc. In a broad sense, someone who is very new at a learning experience.

- 1. a former British term for a black iron post for mooring ships, made from an old cannon partially buried muzzle upward, with a slightly oversize black cannonball covering the hole.   2. an old sailors' term for an isolated coral head; notorious as navigation hazards.   3. an old U.S. Navy term for a small winch, a Capstan

- an object of distinctive characteristics serving as an aid to navigation during darkness. View a downloadable and printable about nightmarks, buoys and other aids to navigation.

- a short rope used to bind a cable to the "messenger" (a continuous, moving line looped around and propelled by the capstan) so that the cable is dragged along too (Used because the cable is too large to be wrapped round the capstan itself). During the raising of an anchor the nippers were attached and detached from the (endless) messenger by the ship's boys. Hence the term for small boys: 'nippers'.

- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - a federal agency in charge of disseminating weather information and nautical charts for the U.S.A.; a great resource for weather information at

- the upper foremost corner of a quadrilateral fore-and-aft rigged sail on some sloops; also called the "Throat"

- a sailboard jibe in which the sailboard either enters or exits the turn at non-planing speed that involves turning the board by either moving the sail forward or moving the back foot out of the strap and placing it on the leeward rail, moving the feet to near the centerline of the sailboard, flipping the sail, then moving the feet into position on the other side of the board; in that order  

- a closed loop in the end of a line with a running knot (the opposite end of the line passed through the loop)

- another name for the of a sailboard

- See

- a type of navigational buoy whose above-water portion is in the shape of a cone or a truncated cone. View a downloadable and printable about nightmarks, buoys and other aids to navigation.

- one of the strongest synthetic fibers for making rope or line. It is about 10 percent stronger than polyester fibers, but stretches a little bit more under load, is slightly less abrasion resistant and is slightly less resistant to UV rays. It also resists decay, and fungus growth. It does sink in water, but is soft and easy to tie and untie knots in. It is a great line if you don't mind a little stretchiness. Nylon line is a strong anchor line and the stretchiness works in your favor to lessen the bump that occurs as your boat tightens the line each time a wave comes under the bow.                                                                       - a preparation of tarred fiber used in shipbuilding, for caulking or packing the joints of timbers in wooden vessels and the deck planking of iron and steel ships, as well as cast iron plumbing applications. Oakum was at one time made from old tarry ropes and cordage of vessels (Junk), and its picking and preparation has been a common penal occupation in prisons and workhouses. In modern times it is made from virgin hemp fibers. White oakum is made from untarred materials. The fibrous material used in oakum is most commonly a hemp or jute fiber impregnated with tar or a tar-like substance. This tar is not the "tar" used on streets and roofs, which is really asphalt, but rather pine tar, also called Stockholm tar, an amber-colored pitch made from the sap of certain pine trees.

- a long spar with a flat blade used for propelling a vessel; usually used in pairs, but may be used singly for sculling. (a Noun) A boatman does not "oar a boat;" he rows it.   Parts are: , , , , and Handle

- a notch, U-shaped fork, or ring that attaches an oar to the gunwale of a boat and acts as a fulcrum for the oar. Called a Rowlock by the British

(Have an Offing) - to be a considerable distance to seaward, but still within visual contact of land. Compare to

- the table of coordinates that supply the full-scale measurements needed to loft a lines plan

- wind that blows from the land to the water and is perpendicular to the shoreline.

- 1. downwind   2. In a direction other than close hauled; i.e. a reach or a run.

- a wave sailing maneuver of sailboarders made off the breaking lip of a wave

- Foul-weather clothing worn by sailors

- a very experienced and/or old sailor

- sailing at a speed that makes the craft skim across the top of the water instead of plowing through it.

- a sailing vessel that is designed for racing a triangular course in which all competitors sail vessels that are identical, and typically, without handicapping; the first one across the finish line wins.

- wind that blows from the water onto the land and is perpendicular to the shoreline; making it difficult to get away from shore

- sailing close hauled

- a rapid fore-and-aft body movement in order to initiate planing or surfing of a small vessel

- a vessel with no decking

- a sailing race that has no restrictions on equipment used or wind velocity

- the lowest deck of a ship of the line. The deck covering in the hold

- 1. away from the centerline of the boat, near the rails or gunwale   See illustration.   2. the use of outboard and inboard varies when a vessel is moored to a pier. The side against the pier is inboard; the side away from the pier is outboard.   3. outside the gunwales or hull   4. a temporarily mounted engine attached to the stern of a vessel

- a propulsion system for boats with an inboard engine operating an exterior drive with drive shaft, gears, and propeller. Also called stern drive or inboard/outboard (I/O).

- to sail faster than another boat

- the line that adjusts outward tension along the foot of the sail along the boom of a sailboat or

- to sail closer into the wind than another vessel

- to leave the safety of port, heading for the open sea

- to sail directly upwind of another ship, stealing the wind from its sails

- off the decks, over the side and out of the boat

- a long pole, that should be within reach of the helmsman, that is tossed into the water immediately after the life buoy or ring, when anyone falls into the water off a boat in order to place a highly visible marker in close proximity of the man overboard. The pole is wood or hollow in order to float, has a brightly colored flag, often the "A" (Alpha) flag, or bright upper tip and is weighted at the bottom just enough to make the pole stand on end while floating in the water.

- dangerously steep and breaking seas due to wind and current that oppose each other in a shallow area

- the simplest of stopper , used to keep a rope from unraveling, passing through a hole, or to create a hand-hold on a line. It should be used judiciously, however, because, although it is very secure, it is also semi-permanent and hard to untie. The is one of the eight knots everyone should know.

- the "ceiling," to land lubbers, or, essentially, the bottom of the deck above you or its lining

- use of sail area that is too large for the wind velocity

- to sail on a tack longer than is desirable or was intended; overstand

- pulling the clew of the boom of a sailboard across the centerline of the sailboard to windward

- a situation where the wraps of a sheet on a winch that are coming from the clew of the sail jump over the tail or end of the sheet that is being pulled on to sheet the sail in. This can cause such a tangle that, with significant wind in the jib, it can get so tight that you can't sheet in any further. The only solution may be to take all the strain off the jib sheet so the wraps can be loosened. This can be accomplished by tying another line on the sheet ahead of the winch and taking the strain with another winch. A second line can be tied to the fouled sheet with a rolling hitch, which won't slip under strain.

- pulling the clew of the boom of a sailboard across the centerline of the sailboard to windward

- in racing, to sail beyond the lay lines to the windward mark; overreach

- to catch a competitor from astern

- capsized or foundered

                                                                      - an iron ring and a swivel joint that connects the boom to the mast of a sailboat or ship. Also called the   for sailboarding

- a large field of floating sea ice that has drifted together

- the sealant around a sliding or rotating shaft, such as a propeller shaft or rudder post, that goes into the Stuffing Box to keep water from leaking into a vessel. Also called the shaft seal.

- a ring fixed to the structure of a ship as a hold for small lines, tackles, etc. Also called a "Lug Pad"   See illustration at on this page

- a line tied to the bow of a small boat for the purpose of securing it to a dock or shore or for towing

- 1. a heavy leather fingerless glove with a built in thimble used by sailmakers and riggers to assist in sewing heavy materials   2. the broad portion of an anchor fluke.   See

(Pronounced "Pähn Pähn") - a call indicating an urgent call for assistance MIGHT be needed for you, your vessel, or someone on your vessel within a short time. An example situation that a Pan Pan call would be warranted would be if your engine failed and you might be washed ashore within an hour or two if you can't get it restarted. The words "Pan Pan" should be repeated three times and then the location of your boat should be given along with information about the assistance you MIGHT need. You should then stay in touch with the authorities on a continuing basis to let them know if you have remedied the situation or it has gotten worse and you need assistance or rescue. For further information see:   Compare to and

- the pulsation in and out of the bow and stern plating as the ship alternately rises and plunges deep into the water

- the error in reading an instrument, such as a compass or engine gauge, due to the difference in distance from the indicator needle to the numerical scale

- a circle on the surface of the earth, or a similar body, parallel to the plane of the equator and connecting all points of equal latitude, or a closed curve resembling or approximating such a circle

- a mechanism for lifting a roughly cylindrical object such as a spar. One end of a rope is made fast above the object, a loop of rope is lowered and passed around the object, which can be raised by hauling on the free end of rope

- See at on this page

- a movable loop or collar, used to fasten a yard or gaff's jaws to its respective mast. Parrel still allows the spar to be raised or lowered and swivel around the mast. It may be made of wire or rope and fitted with parrel beads to reduce friction

- round rollers strung over a short line called the parrel line.   See above

- frames of timber or steel fitted on the underside of the decks that form a frame to support through-deck structures such as masts, capstans, or sampson posts

- a trip from one port to another. One leg of a voyage.   Compare to

or - A rope in use when before the wind with lower studding-sail booms out, to haul out the clues of the fore-sail to tail-blocks on the booms, so as to full-spread the foot of that sail.

- any mechanical log, especially a

- a thick mat that prevents chafing

- to slacken a line or sheet in a controlled manner, so that it may be free to run, but without letting go of it

- the upper, after corner of a quadrilateral fore-and-aft rigged sail

- the base for the wheel or helm

- a compass card without a directive element (needle), suitably mounted to provide means for measuring bearings. Also called a

or or or - 1. a long, tapering flag or burgee of distinctive form and special significance, borne on naval or other vessels and used in signaling or for identification.   2. the line by which a boat ties up to a mooring buoy   3. 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   4. in general, any line hanging from a point to which it is attached and awaiting its free end to be tied to something else

- tides of increased range occurring when the moon is near perigee

- the orbital point nearest the earth when the earth is the center of attraction (as in the case of the moon)

- the orbital point nearest the sun when the sun is the center of attraction (as in the case of a planet)

- Personal Flotation Devise; a life jacket

- Code words that represent the letters of the alphabet for use in clarifying vocal transmissions via radio and telephony. Though often called "phonetic alphabets", spelling alphabets have no connection to phonetic transcription systems like the International Phonetic Alphabet. Instead, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) alphabet assigns code words to the letters of the English alphabet acrophonically (Alfa for A, Bravo for B, etc.(See below)) so that critical combinations of letters (and numbers) can be pronounced and understood by those who transmit and receive voice messages by radio or telephone regardless of their native language, especially when the safety of navigation or persons is essential. The paramount reason is to ensure intelligibility of voice signals over radio links. The code words are: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, Echo, Foxtrot, Golf, Hotel, India, Juliet, Kilo, Lima, Mike, November, Oscar, Papa, Quebec, Romeo, Sierra, Tango, Uniform, Victor, Whiskey, X-ray, Yankee, Zulu

- a wooden, steel, or other non-solid construction, formed perpendicular to and extending from shore on a river, lake, sea, or other navigable water for tying up to, berthing, or loading and unloading vessels. Compare to a , , and .

- a wood, concrete, or metal pole driven into the bottom. It may be created to support a pier, protect a wharf or just to tie up to.

- a navigator especially knowledgeable of and qualified to navigate a vessel through specific, difficult waters, e.g. harbor pilot etc.

- a small cabin on the deck of the ship that protects the steering wheel and the crewman that is steering

- 1. the act of guiding a ship through near-shore hazards by a pilot (See above).   2. determining a vessel's position and directing her course by means of bearings to landmarks or by buoys and soundings when near land. This takes the place of celestial navigation used at sea and out of the view of land.

- to sail as close as possible into the wind. Your sails may be slightly backwinded at the leading edge, luffing, and you will not be sailing as fast to windward as you could.

- a section of a strong rail at the side of a vessel that has holes in it that the belaying pins fit into for making lines fast

- 1. a ship's boat or tender  

- small straight pins secured to a rudder that fit into the gudgeons on the sternpost of very small boats, thus holding the rudder in place and allowing the rudder to pivot

- A signal on the bosun's pipe to signal the end of the day, requiring lights (and smoking pipes) to be extinguished and silence from the crew

- a person who boards a vessel to commit robbery, plundering, kidnapping, murder, etc., and that does so without the authorization of a national power via a Letter of Marque to conduct hostilities against an enemy. Pirates are still in action today. Be Careful !!!   Compare to - 1. the theoretical distance a boat's propeller travels in one rotation   2. tar and resin used to caulk the cracks between the planks of a vessel   3. a vessel's motion, rotating about the beam axis so that the bow and stern rise and fall at opposite times. Compare to , , , , , , , and

- To capsize a boat end over end, rather than by rolling over sideways. Pitchpoling bow first happens most often when a boat is running downwind and as a following wave lifts the stern of the boat, the boat accelerates down the face of the wave until the bow submerges and slows; then the stern is lifted over the bow. Even large boats can be pitchpoled bow over stern rearward in extremely high seas. Pitchpoling is the most dangerous means of capsizing because of the forces involved and the chances of heavy objects being hurled around with great force on deck or down below.

- a downwind jibe in which the stern or tail of the sailboard is sunken by moving the sailor's weight back, the stern acting as the pivot point for the turn. The advantage of this jibe is its short turning radius. The short-board Flare Jibe  

- to travel at a speed that makes your watercraft ride on top of the water instead of plowing through it. This usually entails having about the front two-thirds of the craft out of the water and the back third (or less) skimming over the surface

- the wooden boards that cover the frames to form the hull of a wooden vessel

- a hull of a vessel designed such that when it achieves a certain speed it will skim across the water rather than push its way through

- any style of jibe in which the sailboard enters on a plane and exits the turn without having ever come off of a plane  

- the velocity needed to make a specific watercraft transition from plowing through the water to skimming over the surface.

- boards that are nailed to the frames to make up the hull of a wooden vessel. Each continuous line of planks from stem to stern is a

- a type of U.S.Coast Guard documentation that does not allow commercial use of the vessel

- a vessel with a vertical stem or bow

- 1. to sail close to the wind.   2. One of 32 points of the 360° compass equal to 11.25°, eight points to a quadrant; used to describe the bearing of an object in relation to your direction of travel or heading. An object might be one, two, or three points "forward of the starboard (or port) beam" or "abaft the starboard (or port) beam". Or it may be one, two, or three points "off the starboard (or port) bow", measuring from dead ahead; or one, two, or three points "off the starboard (or port) quarter", measuring from dead astern.   See in a new window.

- 1. to sail closer to the wind.

- the term used to describe a sailing boat's course in relation to the wind direction. See illustration at right.

- a fin shaped long, thin, and narrow. The best fin for sailing upwind. This design has the least resistance for its blade area.

- 1. either of the two points (North and South) of intersection of the surface of the earth or similar body and its axis.   2. Either of two regions of the Earth's surface at which magnetic lines of force are perpendicular to the Earth's surface and to which the needle of a compass points

- a sailboard made with an outer, plastic-like skin of polyethylene or polypropylene. These boards are very heavy and durable; great for real beginners. Also called a Tupperware Board.

- a synthetic fiber used in sail cloth and ropes. It is 90 percent as strong and has less stretch under load than nylon, is more abrasion resistant, and better resistance to UV light. "Dacron" is a trade name. Don't mistake polypropylene for this. See below.   See

- a lightweight, stretchy, slippery, synthetic fiber used in line where flotation is desirable, but high strength is not important. It is also very adversely effected by sunlight, allows many knots to slip and then, holds the shape of the knot after being untied. In most ways, highly inferior to nylon or polyester lines. Its only redeeming features are that it floats and it's cheap; In My Humble Opinion. Don't mistake this for Polyester. See just above.   See

- 1. a superstructure at the aft of a ship.   2. the poop deck.

- a high partial deck on the aft superstructure of a ship.

- 1. swamped by a high, following sea.   2. exhausted. - 1, the left side of the watercraft when viewed from the stern; formerly "Larboard". Marked on vessels with a RED light at night.   See illustration.   2. a city, town, or other place where ships load or unload.   3. a place along a coast in which ships may take refuge from storms; a harbor.

- an opening in a ship's side, especially a round one for admitting light and air, fitted with thick glass and, often, a hinged metal cover. A window. A porthole is a "Portlight" if it can be opened to admit air, and a "Deadlight" if it cannot.

- a porthole that can be opened for light and air to pass through

- sailing with the wind coming from the port side, with the boom on the starboard side.

- a generic term for all jibes except a beginner's jibe

- a small, flat-bottomed rowboat or sailboat with a square bow and stern, sometimes used as a tender

- is the permission given to a ship to enter port on assurance from the captain to the authorities that the vessel is free from contagious disease. The clearance granted is commonly referred to as Free Pratique. A ship can signal a request for "Pratique" by flying a solid yellow square-shaped flag. This yellow flag is the Q flag in the set of .

Click Image to Enlarge - the normal wind direction for a specific area and season

- a line attached to some part of a boat, or one its parts, to or moderate the effects of an accident; such as the sail control line originating at some point on the boom, leading to a fixed point on the boat's deck or rail (usually a cleat or pad eye) used to prevent or moderate the effects of an accidental jibe.

- the meridian of longitude 0°, used as the origin for the measurement of longitude. Internationally, the meridian passing through Greenwich, England has been accepted as the Prime Meridian for navigation.

- 1. a rubber squeeze valve in the fuel line of an outboard engine that, when squeezed, forces gasoline into the carburetor to prime the engine

Privateer - A privately-owned ship authorized by a government (by means of a Letter of Marque) to conduct hostilities against an enemy. Privateering was a way of mobilizing armed ships and sailors without having to spend public money or commit naval officers. The cost was borne by investors hoping to profit from prize money earned from captured cargo and vessels. The proceeds would be distributed among the privateer's investors, officers, and crew. Privateering was considered an honorable profession, combining patriotism and profit, in contrast to unlicensed piracy, which was universally reviled. Also called a Private Man of War   Compare to - A vessel which, according to the applicable navigation rule, has right-of-way. This term has been superseded by the term "stand-on vessel"). See or Prau - a vessel consisting of two, usually unequal length, parallel hulls or a hull (Vaka) and outrigger (Ama), sailed so that the same ballasted hull is always kept to windward, and the other always to leeward, so that it needs to reverse direction or when tacking. Traditional of the South Pacific use a sail and for centuries were probably the fastest sailing vessels.

- in a lines plan, the side view of a hull; also called the sheer plan or elevation

- a type of fan that transforms rotational motion into thrust. A pressure difference is produced between the forward and rear surfaces of the airfoil-shaped blade, thus "propelling" the vessel. It acts like a screw rotating in water and is sometimes called a vessel's screw.

- a rotating rod that attaches the engine to the propeller, thus driving the propeller

- a support located just forward of the propeller and extending off the hull of a vessel to add support to the propeller shaft.

- tendency for a propeller to push the stern slowly sideways; on a right hand (clockwise rotating as viewed from the rear) propeller, to starboard. A right hand propeller in reverse will walk the stern to port

- the turbulent water pushed by the propeller of a propeller driven vessel that shows up as a trail of bubbles and rough water within the vessel's wake

- an instrument for measuring angles on a surface; an angular scale

- the Bow of a vessel

- an instrument consisting of suitably mounted dry-bulb and wet-bulb thermometers for determining relative humidity and dew point

- a rope fender on a vessel

- a safety rail at either the bow or stern of a sailing vessel. Also see "Pushpit"

- to rapidly and repeatedly sheet-in and sheet-out to increase a sailboard's or small sailboat's speed to get the board or hull planing on top of the water's surface instead of plowing through it

1. a block, usually permanently attached.   2. (Mechanical Advantage) - a mechanical method of increasing an applied force. Disregarding the effects of friction, if a force of 100 pounds applied to a or lever is magnified to a force of 400 pounds, the purchase or mechanical advantage or purchase is said to be four to one, or 4:1.

or - a small line running through the tabling on the leech of a sail that can be tightened to reduce the fluttering of the trailing edge of the sail in certain conditions. Don't forget to loosen it when it is not needed!   It's real name is a Leech Cord.

- the person who is buys, stores and sells all stores on board ships, including victuals, rum and tobacco. Originally a private merchant

- nautical slang (if the pulpit is on the bow, the one in the stern must be the pushpit, right?) for that railing which encloses the stern of a sailing yacht; a stern pulpit.

- the Purser

                                                                      - a double reflecting instrument for measuring angles up to 90°, primarily altitudes of celestial bodies. Similar to, and often mistaken for, a which only reads up to 60°.

- the sides of a vessel aft of amidships; i.e., port quarter or starboard quarter.   See illustration.

- a sleeping space, at the aft of a vessel and usually underneath the cockpit and to one side or the other, on a small sailing vessel

- The aftermost deck of a warship.

- a horizontal triangular block of wood connecting a boat's side with the transom

- waves coming onto a ship's quarter

(Pronounced "Key") - a reinforced embankment of stonework, concrete, or other solid mass, formed parallel to shore on a river, lake, sea, or other navigable water for tying up to and loading and unloading vessels. Used loosely, a dock. Compare to a , , and .

- a small staysail located between the foremast and the mainmast

                                                                      - a groove cut in wood to form part of a joint. The main rabbet on a vessel is the groove cut in the backbone for the ends of the planks to fit into.

- a line representing the outer edge of a rabbet

- a sailboard sail that has camber inducers on all of its battens that is designed for slalom and triangle races

- the international standards used to control the rights of way of boats and the framework to which racing is conducted, called the International Yacht Racing Rules and created by the International Yacht Racing Union (IYRU) before 1996, and now, the Racing Rules of Sailing, created by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF).

- acronym for RAdio Detection And Ranging. An electronic system designed to transmit radio signals and receive reflected images of those signals from a "target" in order to determine the bearing and distance to the "target"

- a special fixture fitted to a vessel or incorporated into the design of certain aids to navigation to enhance their ability to reflect radar energy in order to be "seen" more easily by larger vessel's radar. In general, these fixtures will materially improve the visibility for use by vessels with radar

- a sail manufacturing technique whose panels and seams originate at the corners of the sails; as opposed to paralleling or being perpendicular to the leech. Most spinnakers are radial cut.

- an aid to navigation transmitting information via radio waves

- a radio transmitter that transmits from a fixed, known location, for the purpose of guidance or determining position by vessels with a radio direction finder (RDF)

- the bearing of a radio transmitter in realation to a receiver, as determined by use of a radio direction finder

- radio receiving equipment which determines the direction of arrival of a signal by measuring the orientation of the wave front, using a loop antenna

- the line at which direct rays from a transmitting antenna become tangent to the earth's surface. Beyond this point, line of sight radio transmissions cannot be received.

- electronic piloting; navigating by determining a vessel's course, position, and speed by onboard electronic devices and systems

- Rotating Asymmetrical Foil - a fully battened sailboard sail whose battens run from the leech to the mast

- 1. the top edge of the bullwark.  

- to tie two or more vessels together side by side at an anchorage or mooring

- a deck arrangement that is higher than the gunwales

- 1. the lean of a vessel's mast fore or aft. Most sailboats have a slight toward the stern of the craft.  

- aids to navigation which are usually shore-mounted, and come in pairs to help the vessel operator maintain a straight and safe course within a navigable channel. They will usually have lights mounted above them for nighttime use. Each member of the pair is separated from the next in distance and elevation, with the one in front shorter than the one behind it. When the two appear to be vertically stacked, the vessel is on the range line. View a downloadable and printable about range dayboards, buoys and other aids to navigation.

- an optical instrument used for determining the distance to another object

- two lights associated to form a range (a line formed by the extension of a line connecting two charted points) which often, but not necessarily, indicates the channel centerline. The front range light is the lower of the two, and nearer to the mariner using the range. The rear light is higher and further from the mariner. View a downloadable and printable about range lights, buoys and other aids to navigation.

- the difference between the high of the high tide and the low of the low tide at a location in one day

- the extreme distance an object or light can be seen from a given point

- a hinged metal disk or cone secured to a mooring line to prevent rats from climbing up the line and into the ship

- a line used to hold a mooring line while it is being secured to bitts

- a block whose sheave turns only in one direction, making it easier to hold a line under tension

- any of the small ropes or lines that traverse the shrouds horizontally and serve as steps for going aloft.

- the ratio of the ranges of high tides at two places. Helpful if you know the range at one of the locations and need to know the other.

- the ratio of the height of tide at two places. Helpful if you know the height at one of the locations and need to know the other.

- to create or secure ratlines to (shrouds)

- See

- sailing with a beam wind. A point of sail from about 60° to about 160° off the wind. Reaching consists of "close reaching" (about 60° to 80°), "beam reaching" (about 80° to 120°) and "broad reaching" (about 120° to 160°)

- two sets of footstraps on a long-board: 1.Front reaching straps are just behind the centerboard, at a 45-degree angle to the centerline. 2. Back reaching straps are on the centerline, near the stern.

- a sailing command indicating that the crew should prepare to come about

- the direction precisely opposite another; differing by 180°

- 1. to reduce the size of a sail by tying a portion of the sail to the boom or yard, or using . 2. A strip or ridge of rocks, sand, or coral that rises to or near the surface of a body of water; a danger of running aground

- Long pieces of fabric sewed horizontally across the sails at reefing points to give them additional strength

- a line tied to the cringle

- used to hold down the "new" Tack (at the reef point) when jiffy reefing the Mainsail. and are attached to the Boom, as near the Tack attachment as possible, and are either screwed to the Boom or are attached to the horizontal Gooseneck Pin.

- a piece of hardwood that has holes drilled in it, aligned vertically below each leech reef cringle, attached horizontally to the side of the boom, to provide fair leads for the reef pendants

- a thimble attached to the bolt rope on the forward and after edges and in line with the reefing lines. A small line (reefing pendant) is run through the reef cringle to assist in holding a reef to the boom.

- a small line reeved through a reefing cringle at either end a row of reefing points to secure the reefed sail atop the boom

- small lengths of cord, attached in horizontal rows, across a sail, used to secure the excess fabric when reefing a sail in heavy weather

or Square Knot - a simple binding , used to tie two ends of a single line together such that they will secure something; like a sail to a boom (reefing), or a bundle of small objects together. This knot should not be used to two lines together, as it can easily capsize or slip. The is one of the eight everyone should know.

(Reeves, Reeving, Reeved, Rove) - to pass (a rope or the like) through a hole, ring, cringle, block, fairlead, padeye, deadeye, etc.

- a place for which independent daily predictions are given in the tide or tidal current, from which corresponding predictions are obtained for other stations by means of differences or factors.   See and

- to repeatedly fail to get about when an attempt is made to go about. You may end up , or, simply, fall back onto the old tack, necessitating or .   Compare to , and .

- a series of sailing races

- licensing and numbering of a vessel

- a to an object in relation to the bow of the ship. See also: , , , and

- the amount of water vapor in the air. It is defined as the ratio of the partial pressure of water vapor in the air-water mixture to the maximum saturated vapor pressure of water at those conditions. The relative humidity of air depends not only on temperature but also on air pressure.

- a terrain map showing differences in elevation of points on the map, represented as contour lines where all points on a line are at the same elevation

- a device for repeating at a distance, the indications of an instrument or device in order for those indications to be received at greater distances

- gunwales that rises near the middle of the vessel instead of dropping in relation to the ends

- a straight line compass course between two points

- another word for frame, the transverse members of a wooden hulled vessel to which the planks are fastened

- in boat building, fore-and-aft running strips of wood temporarily attached to the molds to hold the frames in place as they are bent or placed into the hull

- Rigid Inflatable Boat - a small boat with a hard, pre-formed V-shaped underwater hull and inflatable tubes that form the abovewater portion of the hull.   Compare to on this page

- to raise the windward rail in high wind so that the only part of the sailboard that is in the water is the fin

- a second layer of turns wrapped over a seizing or whipping.   Also called "riding turns"

- a white light displayed by a boat or ship at anchor. Two such lights are displayed by a ship over 150 feet (46 m) in length, Also called an "anchor light."

- a second layer of turns wrapped over a seizing or whipping.   Also called "riders"

- 1. on a sailboard, the sail, mast, and boom (essentially, everything but the board)   2.to assemble the sail, mast, and boom on a sailboard   3. the general arrangement of a vessel's masts, lines, and sails at Transitioning.com.       See and on this page. - sails that run approximately parallel to a line from the bow to the stern when sheeted in - sails hung from yards that are attached to the mast in the middle, thus, the yards hang at approximately right angles to the masts and the sails have equal portions hanging on each side of the mast, not all on one side. The yards and sails, however, can be rotated around the masts to trim them for upwind sailing, but do not sail well high on the wind. - a triangular sail set behind the mast, without foresail, and frequently without stays or shrouds. This rig is used on many small sailboats. With a wishbone boom, this is the rig of a sailboard. - a "sprit" or spar leading from the lower part of the mast to the peak of the quadrilateral mainsail, and flying a jib - an isosceles triangular sail set on a long yard mounted at an angle on the mast, and running in a fore-and-aft direction. The angled yard allows the head of the sail to be well above the height of the mast and a modern modification is to add a boom to the foot of the sail. The lateen sail pivots around the mast and will have a . - a quadrilateral sail hung from a gaff - a triangular sail hung from a yard that slides up a shortened mast and raises to vertical, allowing the peak of the sail to be much higher than the mast. This is similar to a , but the yard raises all the way to vertical. This rig is very convenient on small boats because it allows the whole rig to be unstepped at the mast and laid down in the boat for storage. Once the sail is raised, it looks and performs much like the triangular Marconi Rig. If using a boom, it is, however, rather difficult to reef the sail. - a with triangular mainsail on a tall mast, usually, but not always using a boom. At some point, spreaders started being used on the masts, and someone thought the rig resembled radio towers; thus Marconi Rig. - add a foresail jib to a Marconi Rig and you have the modern so frequently used on today's Knockabouts, Sloops, Ketches, Yawls and Schooners; although the Bermuda Rig has changed significantly since its first use in Bermudan waters in the 17th century. - a sailboat sail-plan that uses a single mast set in the aft half of the hull to support a very large jib or multiple staysails, with either a small or completely absent mainsail. Mast aft rigs are uncommon, but are found on a few production sailboats. - a vessel setting and perhaps lug topsails See the of a Sloop, Cutter, Yawl, Ketch, Schooner, Brig, Barquentine, Barque, Bragana or Felluca, Polacre, Junk and Full Rigged Ship.   Link opens a new window. - the system of ropes, chains, and tackle used to support and control the masts, sails, and yards of a ship.

etc. - the twist of a stranded rope with the strands turning to the right. This is the most commonly used lay, referred to as "Z-Twist"

- a propeller whose blades, when in forward gear and viewed from the rear, turn clockwise. Most outboard and single-engine inboard vessels have right-handed propellers. Most twin-engine vessels have a right-handed propeller on the starboard side and a left-handed propeller on the port side so that the prop-walk of the two engines negate each other.

YOU MUST GIVE RIGHT OF WAY TO VESSELS IN BLACK - the right to continue on a current course without changing direction or speed. "Right of Way" is the "Privileged" or "Stand On" Vessel the "Burdened" or "Give Way" Vessel. , YOU MUST Give Way (Yield Right of Way) to him by adjusting YOUR speed and/or course in order to let him pass you without having to change his course or speed.       sides, the one which has the wind on the port side shall yield to the other. side, the vessel to windward shall yield to the vessel to leeward.       For a downloadable and printable US Coast Guard brochure on Rules of the Road and aids to navigation - the force which tends to restore a ship to equilibrium once a heel has altered the relationship between her center of buoyancy and her center of gravity

or - a boat with inflatable tubes at the gunwales and with a hard or rigid floor or hull, like that of some small Zodiak dive boats and, now, other much larger power boats used for many purposes

- the rim or "eyebrow" above a port-hole or scuttle for the purpose of keeping water from draining down across the portal itself

- the fore-and-aft strip fastened inside of frames to support the thwarts

- an arc of extra material on the leech of a sail, outside a straight line drawn from the head to the clew

- a partly sheltered area of water near a shore in which vessels may ride at anchor. Not to be confused with "Rode."

- the name given to strong westerly winds found in the Southern Hemisphere, generally between the latitudes of 40 and 50 degrees. Air displaced from the Equator towards the South Pole, which travels close to the surface between the latitudes of 30 and 60 degrees south, combines with the earth's rotation to cause west-to-east air currents. Because there is little land mass below the 40th parallel south, greater wind speeds are able to build than in the same region of the Northern Hemisphere that contains significant land masses. and Shrieking or .   See the illustration at

- a short piece of line, used to secure something to a yard, gaff, mast, bending jackstay, or mast hoops

- 1. a convex, fore-and-aft curvature in the keel or bottom of the hull of a vessel  

- the line and chain that connect the anchor to the boat. Not to be confused with "Road."

- a vessel's motion rotating from side to side, about the fore-aft axis. Compare to , , , , , , , and

- a mechanical method of either fully or partially furling and unfurling a sail where the stay that supports the sail rotates to roll the sail around itself

- a mechanical method of either fully or partially reefing and unreefing a sail where the spar that supports the sail rotates to roll the sail around itself

- a number of pulleys, engaged to confine the yard to the weather side of the mast. This tackle is much used in a rough sea.

- a small vessel tack where the crew uses their weight aggressively to windward to "roll" the boat to windward when initiating the tack to make the boom shift and the turn quicker

- See

- to turn into the wind far enough to luff your sails

- A past tense and a past participle of .   2. a copper washer upon which the end of a copper nail is clinched in boat building.

- to propel a vessel with oars. A boatman does not "oar a boat;" he rows it.

- a notch, U-shaped fork, or ring that attaches an oar to the gunwale of a boat and acts as a fulcrum for the oar. Called an in the U.S.A.

- a section of mast above the Top-Gallant Mast, which is above the Topmast, which is above the

- An extra plank fitted to the outside of the hull, usually at deck level, to protect the topsides from collisions and bumps against piers or other boats. Also called "Rub Rail" or "Sheer Guard"

- Same as "Rubbing Strake"

- the vertical blade at the stern of the boat that turns the boat by defection of water passing it.

- maritime laws that provide guidance on how to avoid collision and are also used to assign blame when a collision does occur.   Also see

- established by agreement of the maritime nations to govern the navigation of vessels on the high seas to prevent collisions - enacted by Congress to govern the navigation of the inland waterways of the United States - enacted by Congress to prevent collisions upon certain harbors, rivers, and inland waters of the United States and supplement the Inland Rules - a set of rules that are for organized racing only. Also see       For a downloadable and printable US Coast Guard brochure on Rules of the Road and aids to navigation - the straight-line course between two points. On a reach or run, the rumb line is the shortest distance and it is fastest to sail this course whenever possible.

- a sale of damaged cargo (from French arrimage)

- a point of sail, going directly or almost directly downwind. On a sailboat, the jib and the mainsail should be set on opposite sides. (Wing on Wing) See

- Also called or A stay that supports the mast from aft, usually from the quarter rather than the stern. When the boat is sailing downwind, the runner on the leeward side of the mainsail must be released so as not to interfere with the sail.

- a moveable bowsprit that can be extended or retracted fore and aft as needed

- a navigational fix obtained by using a line of position (LOP) taken at or near the current time together with another, earlier LOP that has been advanced for the movement of the vessel between these two times

- lights on an underway vessel that are required to be on and shown between sundown and sunrise. These usually consist of a red light to port and a green light to starboard and one or more white lights in various configurations. The differences in the configurations allow a person viewing them to identify not only the general type of vessel, but its direction of travel at a glance.

- lines and hardware use to CONTROL the sails. Running rigging includes the winches, turning blocks, fairleads, etc., and lines with which you adjust the sails: halyards, sheets, clew lines, tacklines, gunter lines, topping lifts, boom vang or kicking lift, traveler, outhaul, downhaul, snotter, reefing pendants, reef earrings. Cunningham, guy, foreguy, barberhauler, preventer, twings, sail stop, bridle, reefing lines, etc.   Compare to

- a docking line that is controlled from the vessel and used to position it as you leave the slip or mooring

                                                                      Category Wind Speed Storm Surge
(km/h)
(m)
(≥250)
(>5.5)
(210-249)
(4.0-5.5)
(178-209)
(2.7-3.7)
(154-177)
(1.8-2.4)
(119-153)
(1.2-1.5) Additional classifications Tropical
Storm
(63-117)
(0-0.9) Tropical
Depression
(0-62)
(0)

Basic Sailboating Lessons at Spinnaker Sailing

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