Nautical terminology

abaft
Toward the stern; Behind.

abeam
Located at a right angle to the fore-and-aft line; To one side of a vessel.

abreast
Side by side; Even with; By the side of.

ABYC
American Boat & Yacht Club; An organization that determines voluntary safety and construction standards for
small crafts (U.S. only).

admeasure
To measure a vessel, for the purpose of documentation.

adrift
Not moored; Aground; Not fastened to the shore; Free floating without propulsion.

admiralty law
A term for marine law, originating from the British Admiralty department (which administers naval affairs); Law
of the sea.

aft
At or near the stern.

after bow spring line

A mooring line; a line designated to control the motion of a vessel in its berth; a line connected near (or at) the
bow to shore.

agonic line
An imaginary line (on the earth's surface) along which there is no magnetic variation.

aground
When the boat's keel or bottom is resting on the sea bottom.

aids to navigation
Beacons, buoys, daybeacons, lights or radiobeacons with known charted positions; Established land or sea
markers that enable navigators to avoid danger.

aloft
Above the deck; Usually a location in the rigging.

amidships
Center portion of the ship; In the center, between the bow and stern.

anchor
A heavy metal device, attached to chain or line, to hold a vessel in position; an object used to dig in the bottom
that serves as a temporary mooring.

anchorage
A suitable and customary harbor area in which vessels may anchor; a designated harbor mooring area.

anchor bend
A specific knot used to fasten an anchor line to an anchor.

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anchor light
An all-round white light (required by the Navigation Rules) when a vessel is moored; Also known as a "Riding
Light".

anchor rode
A line (chain, nylon or steel cable) used to hold a vessel fast to the anchor.

anchor watch
Person(s) kept alert on deck of a moored vessel; people designated to cope with unexpected situations while the
boat is at anchor.

anemometer
An instrument used to measure wind velocity (or wind speed).

aneroid barometer
An instrument that measures and indicates air pressure; A mechanical device (rather than liquid, such as
mercury). Air pressure is measured in millibars.

anti-fouling
A type of paint, used on boat bottoms, that repels undesirable adhesions, such as marine grass and barnacles.

apparent wind
The force and direction of the wind relative to a moving vessel, differing from the true wind. The motion of an
underway vessel makes an effective wind.

astern
Beyond the stern; The direction toward the stern of a vessel.

athwart
At right angles (90 degrees) to the centerline.

autopilot
An automatic steering device.

auxiliary
A sailboat that has an engine.

aweigh
Off the bottom; usually in reference to the anchor.

B
backing (wind)
Wind changing its direction; opposite of veering.

backsplice
A splice in which the strands are interwoven and reversed (to make a rope end).

backstay
A mast supporting stay; A support running from the stern to the masthead.

ballast
An additional weight placed low in the hull (usually for stability); ballast may be external or internal.

bar
A debris, mud or sand shoal; may be a shoal across the mouth of a river or harbor.

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barograph
A weather device that records atmospheric (barometric) pressure continuously.

barometer
An instrument that displays and measures atmospheric pressure.

batten down
To close all openings, such as hatches; To fasten all loose gear in heavy or stormy weather. Wooden hatches used
to be covered with a tarpaulin, and then fastened with battens and wedges.

battens
Thin flexible strips (plastic or wood) used in batten pockets of a sail to support [stiffen to keep flat] the roach;
battens may be used in awnings.

beam
The vessel's width; A principle dimension; The direction at right angles to the centerline.

beam reach
A point of sailing with the apparent wind blowing at right angles to the vessel's fore-and-aft line.

bearing
The direction of an object (buoy, lighthouse, another ship) from an observer; bearings can be by radar, radio or
visual.

bear off
To turn leeward; To turn away from the wind; also known as "to bear away".

beating
Sailing against the wind, in alternate tacks.

Beaufort wind scale

A scale, created by Admiral Beaufort in 1808, that indicates the force of the wind; the original scale indicated the
effect on a full-rigged frigate under sail; it has been extended to cover effects on shore as well as at sea, plus
criteria that can now be measured, such as speed of the wind; the scale shows wind forces from 0 to 17 - each
increase of force (number) means a doubling of the pressure (not velocity) of the wind.

becket
A rope handle; An eye or loop in the end of a rope.

bedding compound
Caulking material used for mating two surfaces, for the purpose of rendering them watertight.

bend
To fasten by means of a knot; One of several types of knots, used to fasten a line to a spar or another line.

bend on
To rig; To prepare a sail for hoisting.

berth
A margin of safety, as a "wide berth"; A place to sleep; A position in which a vessel may be made fast.

bight
An indentation in the shoreline; The middle area of a slack rope.

bilge
The lowest point of a vessel's interior hull; Can be the part of the exterior between the bottom and the topsides.

binnacle
A box, case or stand that houses a compass (which is usually illuminated at night).

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binocular
A telescopic instrument, for the use of both eyes simultaneously, having two tubes - each furnished with lenses.

bitt
A strong post, may be made of iron or wood; similar to a "samson post"; a post to which anchor, mooring or
towing lines are fastened. Bitts may be located in the bow or stern.

bitter end
The extreme end of any line; The inboard end of an anchor rode.

block
Complete assembly of sheaves or pulleys and shells (plates) on which ropes run. Blocks may be composed of
metal, plastic or wood.

block & tackle

An arrangement of blocks (pulleys) and line to gain a mechanical advantage (leverage); used in moving heavy
cargo or equipment.

boarding ladder
A temporary set of steps, usually lowered over the side of a vessel.

boat
Generic term for a small vessel; the vessel may be propelled by oars, power or sail; A vessel that can be carried
on board a ship.

boathook
A hook on a pole, usually used for retrieving objects and for "fending off".

bollard
A strong vertical fitting to which mooring lines may be fastened; usually made of iron, found on decks, piers or
wharves.

boom
A spar, used to extend the foot of a sail.

boom vang
A system of fittings; used to restrain the boom under inclimate weather conditions.

boot-top
A painted stripe at the vessel's waterline.

bosun
A boatswain; a petty officer in charge of deck operations, hull, rigging and sail maintenance.

bosun's chair
A seat used to hoist a person aloft (for the purpose of rigging repair); may be made of canvas or wood.

bosun's locker
A shipboard storage locker; used to keep tools, rigging materials, paint and other deck supplies.

bow
The forward section of a vessel; the front part.

bow & beam bearings

Used to determine the distance off, it is a set of bearing ashore; a navigational aid from a known place.

bowditch
Named after the original author (Nathaniel Bowditch), it is a standard reference text on navigation.

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bowline
A knot used to make a loop in a line; it is simple, strong and virtually slip-proof.

bowsprit
A fixed spar; useful for anchor handling; spar projecting from the bow, to which forestay(s) or the headstay are
fastened.

braided line
A modern configuration of rope; may be single or double braided.

breakers
Cresting waves; may be as a result of waves that build up (crest) as they reach shallow water.

breakwater
A (stone or concrete) structure built to improve/create a harbor.

breast line
A lateral mooring/dock line from a boat to a pier; as distinguished from a spring line.

bridge
The person(s) in charge of a vessel; the control station of a vessel; a structure over water that carries pedestrian,
railroad or vehicular traffic.

brightwork
Polished metals, such as brass, bronze or stainless steel.

Bristol fashion
Conforming to high standards of seamanship; shipshape; neat, clean and orderly.

broaching / broach to
An unplanned and uncontrolled turning of a vessel so that the hull is broadside to the seas or to the wind.

broad on the beam

At a right angle (90 degrees) to a vessel.

broad reach
A point of sailing with the apparent wind broad on the beam.

bulkhead
A transverse wall in the hull; a sectioned area with the hull; interior compartmentalized location.

buntline hitch
A simple hitch for attaching a halyard to a shackle.

buoy
A floating navigational aid; used to indicate channel configurations, hidden obstacles and prohibited areas;
markers to indicate turning points in boat races; may serve as a temporary anchoring marker.

burdened vessel
The ship that must "give right" to another vessel in a crossing/overtaking situation, as outlined in standard
navigational rules.

burgee
A special flag; flag used to indicate vessel ownership or affiliation, such as a yacht club.

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 C
camber
Curvature of either the keel or sail; the deck's curve, usually higher in the center, allowing water runoff.

can
A cylindrical buoys; generally red or green.

Canadian Power & Sail Squadrons

A private membership organization; it specializes in safe boating and boating education.

canvas
Woven cloth (made of cotton, linen or hemp) used for awnings and sails; A set of sails.

capsize
To overturn the vessel; to turn the vessel's bottom side up.

capstan
A (vertical) winch on deck; winch used for hauling the anchor line.

carbon fiber
Modern fiber composed of epoxies (for strength).

cardinal points
The primary compass points - North, South, East and West.

carlins
Aft and fore members of the deck frame; boat feature that supports the cabin trunk, the hatch coamings and the
cockpit coamings.

carrick bend
A knot used to fasten multiple lines together.

carry away
To break loose; said of gear that is stressed beyond the strength of its fastenings.

carvel
Planking, usually smooth skinned.

cast off
To unfasten or loosen; the untying of mooring lines (in preparation for departure).

catalyst
A chemical that activates a chemical reaction.

catamaran
A twin-hulled vessel; may be either power or sail.

catboat
A simple sailboat rig; sailboat with one mast/one sail.

catenary
A "gravity induced" rope sag between two points.

cavitation
Water turbulence generated the propeller's rotation.

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ceiling
A hull's inner lining.

celestial navigation
The use of heavenly bodies for the determination of a vessel's position.

centerboard
A metal plate (or board), moving vertically (or pivoting up & down) in the slot of the keel; the purpose is to add
lateral resistance to a sailboat's hull.

certificate
A government paper; a government issued license, such as boat/master/seaman license(s).

chafe
The wear of an object; abrasion; wearing away prior to the failure of the object.

chafing gear
Tape, cloth or other material fastened around an object to prevent wear.

chain
Interlocking links (made of steel or iron); may be used for rigging and anchor lines.

chain locker
Stowage space reserved for the anchor line/chain.

chainplates
Fittings located on the outer deck edges (or on the hull sides) to which riggings are fastened.

chandlery
Location where nautical gear is sold; items of nautical gears.

channel
The area of a waterway that is navigable; this area is typically marked by red and green buoys, where the water
depth is known.

Charlie Noble
A stovepipe fitting through which the vessel's stove metal chimney is contained; it is usually equipped with a cap
to exclude rain and to control smoke.

charts
Any sea-going maps; most charts are issued by government sources, which usually provide information such as
channel markings, water depths, land surveys, etceteras.

chart table
Where charts and maps are handled during the navigation of a vessel; also known as the navigation table.

chine
The intersection between bottom and topsides.

chock
A rigging fitting; A mounted "u" or "o" shaped fitting that controls a rigging or mooring line.

chockablock
The line between two blocks in a tackle are "closed up" (drawn as far as possible) so that no more line movement
is possible.

chop

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 Waves that are short and steep.

clamp
A wooden vessel's inner plank (longitudinal timber) that acts as the bearer of joints or beams.

classes
Organized groups of boats; a grouping of vessels based on a pre-defined set of specifications. Usually this is done
for racing - to put a premium on skill and tactics once boat performance has been equalized.

cleat
A rigging fitting; a fitting to which halyards, mooring lines, sail control lines and other miscellaneous lines are
attached temporarily.

cleat hitch
A "figure-eight" hitch; the distinctive criss-cross hitch used to belay (fasten) a line to the cleat.

clevis pin
A large pin; the pin used to secure one fitting to another.

clew
The (lower) sail's after corner, to which the sheet is attached.

close-hauled
The boat has been enabled to sail "against the wind"; "hard on the wind"; a point of sailing in which the sheets are
hauled tight.

clove hitch
A double-loop hitch; generally used around a bollard or piling.

club-footed
The foot of a jib (or foresail) which is supported by a small boom.

coaming
A raised edge; the raised edge surrounding a cockpit that prevents seawater from entering the vessel.

Coast Pilots
Reference books; a set of books, issued by the US National Ocean Service, listing navigation aids and other
coastal piloting information.

cockpit
A space for the crew; an area lower than the deck; usually water-tight or self-draining.

cockpit sole
The cockpit's floor.

code
In signaling, any one of several methods to transmit messages; messages may be sent visually (flags),
electronically (Morse Code) or by sound (radio).

cold front
The forward edge of a cold air mass meeting warmer air; a meteorological term for describing weather.

cold molding
The process of bending multiple thin layers of wood (in sequence with glue) to achieve a desired thickness (as
opposed to sawing or forming by steam bending).

colors
The ceremony or act of raising the colors (including other flags); the national ensign.

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COLREGS
The "navigational rules of the road"; US Coast Guard term for international regulations for preventing collisions
at sea.

come about
To tack; to change the vessel's direction, relative to the wind.

companionway
The entrance (or hatch) from deck to the cabin; interior stairs.

compass
A navigational device; boating instrument that provides 360 degrees of direction; also a plotting tool for drawing
circular arcs and circles.

composite construction
An item composed of multiple components of different natures, such as wood and fiberglass.

cordage
A classification encompassing all small lines (ropes); may be for natural or synthetic fibers.

cored construction
The material between an inner and an outer layer.

Corinthian
An amateur yachtsman; Novice.

cotter pin
A (small) pin used to keep turnbuckles (nuts) from unwinding.

counter
The stern-end portion of the hull that is above the waterline and extending aftwards.

course
When racing, it is the direction that a vessel must follow.

cowls
Directing the flow of air (and vapors) through ducts.

cradle
A "berthing" framework used to support a vessel on land.

crest
The top of a wave.

cringle
A circular eye that is used to fasten the corner of an awning, sail or any canvas item.

crossing situation
The meeting of two vessels, which is not head-on, but having 22.5 degrees aft the beam.

cunningham
Invented by Briggs Cunningham, it is the line controlling tension along a sail's luff.

current
The normal water flow; the movement of water in an horizontal direction.

9
 D
DRS
A sail referred as a (D)rifter / (R)eacher / (S)pinnaker.

Dacron
Polyester; a registered polyester trademark.

daggerboard
Centerboard that can be retracted vertically (opposed to hinged).

danger angle
A piloting angle; a measured angle between the directions between two points, such as rocks, buoys or landmarks.

davit
A hoisting device; a swing-out crane; usually on a vessel; may be used for dinghy or anchor.

dayboard
A navigational aid; a sign atop a piling or dolphin, which may be unlit (daybeacon) or lit (light).

daysailer
A cabin-less vessel; typically used for racing and/or short excursions.

dayshape
A geometrical marker (black ball, cylinder or cone) hung aloft to show a vessel's occupation, state or type. For
example, one black ball is "at anchor", three black balls is "aground".

dead ahead
Directions exactly ahead of the vessel; opposite direction of dead astern.

dead astern
Directions exactly behind the vessel; opposite direction of dead ahead.

deadlight
A non-opening port or skylight; a small porthole in a cabin top or deck.

dead reckoning
A navigational method of determining a vessel's location; this is calculated from the steered course and vessel's
speed (without obtaining a fix).

deadrise
Expressed as an angle, it is height between the vessel's bottom and its widest beam.

departure, point of
The vessel's last obtained position.

depth sounder
An electronic device for measuring water depth; it measures the time lapse from sending a sound wave to the
bottom and its return back; the results may be displayed in fathoms, feet or meters.

deviation
The difference between a compass' reading of North against the true magnet North.

dinghy

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 A small boat; a boat used as a tender; a small racing sailboat.

displacement
The weight of water displaced by a floating hull; a vessel's displacement varies from fresh water to seawater.

displacement hull
A vessel that supported by its own buoyancy, while in motion.

distress signals
An improvised or standard signal that is used to indicate an emergency situation. The signals may be audible,
electronic or visual.

ditty bag
A small bag for personal items.

dock
An enclosed water area; the planking surrounding a boat's slip; a pier, wharf or place where vessels can moored.

documentation
A vessel's registration; a special federal license.

dolphin
A small grouping of piles (usually three); the piles are normally tied together to form a single structure. May be
used for mooring or as a navigational aid.

Dorade vent
A vent designed to allow air flow into the lower deck while keeping water out.

double-braid
A rope made with braided core and a (braided) cover.

double-ender
A boat whose stern resembles its bow configuration; a boat designed with a sharp stern.

douse
To snuff out a fire or light; to lower (drop) a sail quickly.

downhaul
A rigging line used to hold down (or haul down) a sail or spar.

downwind
A leeward direction; a direction to leeward with the wind.

draft
The vertical distance between the vessel's waterline and its lowest point; the lowest point may be the hull itself or
an attachment (such as a rudder or propeller). The minimum water depth in which a boat will float.

drift
The velocity of a (water) current.

drogue
An opened-ended cone; a conic device serving to slow down a vessel in heavy weather.

drydock
An enclosed dock; a dock used in the repairing or cleaning of a vessel; a raised dock from which a boat can be
raised so that water can be pumped out.

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dry rot
Decay of wood timbers; a result of moist conditions leading to decay.

drysail
After each sail outing, drying out the vessel.

dry storage
Storing the boat on land, away from the water.

ducts
Channel movement of air for the displacement of fumes (from the space being ventilated).

E
ease
To let out a line while under full control; gradually releasing a line for a sheet or docking line.

ebb
A tidal current that flows towards the sea.

electronic navigation
Vessel piloting by automatic or manual electronic instruments; devices include: electronic compass, echo
sounders, radar and position-finding systems (Decca, Loran-C, Omega, VOR and satellite systems).

ensign
The national flag; the flag of an organization, such as the US Power Squadron and Coast Guard Auxiliary.

entry
Hull qualifier in terms of hull behavior and efficiency in relation to wave action. A "sharper" entry implies a
faster hull speed (for a racing hull).

EPIRB
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon; a (continually operating) transmitter that issues a distress message
(for others to respond).

estimated position
Less precise than a "fix", it is a navigational point based on vessel speed, course run and other factors, such as
wind & current drifts.

eye splice
A fixed loop in the end of a line.

F
fairlead
A rigging fitting; its purpose is to change and control the direction of a line while minimizing friction.

fastening
A screw, bolt or nail that is used to fasten plumbing and rigging fixtures. Any method used to hold planks in a
wooden ship to its frames.

fathom
A length of six feet; a term used for measuring water depth or an anchor line.

Fathometer
(Raytheon) trademark for a brand of an electronic depth finder.

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FCC
Federal Communications Commission

FCC Rules
FCC regulations that govern the body of radio equipment and radio operation.

fender
A cushioning object; bumper; a device hung between a boat and a dock/float/pier/boat to prevent chafing damage.

fetch
The distance across water, where the wind is/was blowing; to sail a course that will clear a shoal or buoy ("lay").

fiberglass
Fibrous-formed glass; fiber-reinforced plastic, which may be woven or in mat form.

fid
A pointed (or tapered) tool used to separate rope strands, as in splicing.

figure-eight
A knot; knot usually serving as a stopper (at the end of a line) to prevent the rope from passing through a fairlead
or block.

fin keel
Keel shaped like a fish fin; typically shorter and deeper than a full-length keel.

finger pier
A narrow pier; may project from the shore, larger pier or dock.

fix
A vessel's position, regardless of how it is determined.

flame arrester
A safety device, designed to absorb heat; its purpose is to prevent an exhaust backfire from causing an explosion.

flare
The outward curvatures of the topsides; a pyrotechnic signal used to indicate distress.

flashing
A light that is "on" less than it is "off" in a regular sequence of single flashes.

flemish
To coil a rope in a spiral on a flat surface; may be for a mat or appearance.

flinders bar
A soft iron bar, in/on the binnacle; used to compensate for compass error (resulting from vertical magnetism in a
steel-hulled vessel).

flood
The incoming tide; the rising tide.

floor
Structural members in the bottom of a boat.

flotsam
Wreckage debris floating on the water.

fluke

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 The shovel-shaped part of an anchor's "arms"; used to dig into the ground to prevent dragging.

flush deck
A deck without any above deck structures, such as a cabin.

Flying bridge
A high steering position, also called a flybridge.

following sea
Waves from astern.

foot
The bottom edge of a sail.

fore
Position near or at the front of a vessel.

fore-and-aft
From front to back; from stem to stern.

forecabin
Cabin located near the front of the vessel, as opposed to aftcabin.

forecast
The formalized weather prediction.

forecastle
The crew quarters; also called fo'c'sle.

foredeck
The forward part of a vessel's main deck.

forepeak
The ships' extreme forward compartment, typically used for stowage.

forestay
A stay, from high (on the mast) to the foredeck; the outermost stay, running from the top of the mast to the bow.

forestaysail
Similar to a jib, it is the sail attached to the forestay.

foretriangle
An area bounded by the foredeck, headstay and the mast.

forward
A direction to the front; a direction towards the bow.

forward quarter spring line

A mooring line (running forward from the quarter) to control the forward/backward rocking motion of a berthed
vessel.

founder
To sink; the going down of a ship.

fractional rig
A rig where the sloop's jib does not reach the top of its mast.

frames

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 The ribs of a vessel; lateral, transverse structural members of a vessel.

freeboard
The vertical distance between topsides and the waterline.

fronts
The boundaries between air masses (either warm or cold); boundaries delineated by differences in air
temperature.

fully battened
Sail with batten running full length of the sail (horizontally).

furling
The gathering (folding or rolling) of a sail on its boom (when not in use).

G
gaff
A device used to boat a large fish; A spar that holds the upper side of a four-sided sail.

galley
The ships' kitchen.

garboard strake
The plank next to the keel.

gash
1) Extra, leftovers, or garbage; 2) Slang for surplus to requirements; 3) Unnecessary, extra, or spare; 4) Slang for
cannabis; 5) Slang for a girl or woman; 6) Derrogatory term for a female's genitals
For a brief article on this subject, see "Gash Duty by Tom Cohenour" (on Page 5, Antartic Sun, December 8,
2002).

gel coat
Protective coating or finish of a fiberglass vessel.

genoa
An overlapping jib.

geographic position
A fix; a charted position.

gimbals
Pivoted rings used to support a device that may tip or remain level; rings holding a compass.

give-way vessel
A vessel that does not have the right-of-way in an overtaking position; also called the burdened vessel.

Global Positioning System (GPS)

A (world-wide) radio navigation system, used to determine a ship's fix.

grab rail
A convenient grip; may be on a ladder or cabin top.

granny knot
A knot tied in error; a faulty knot; an unsecured knot, not sure to hold.

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great circle
The circumference of the earth; the circle formed by the intersection of a sphere and a plane; such as the lines of
latitude or longitude.

grommet
An eyelet; a ring (circle) formed by a rope.

gross tonnage
Computed as 40 cubic feet per ton, it is the vessel's total interior space (including non-cargo space); a vessel's
weight; weight of a vessel's water displacement.

ground swells
Waves that become steeper and shorter as they approach the shore.

ground tackle
All gear associated with the anchoring of a ship; its anchor, anchor line and shackles.

gunwale
The toe rail; the upper edge above the boat's deck.

guy
A rigging line; a line attached to a movable spar, used to control it.

gyres
Circular, oceanic currents.

H
hail
The signaling of a ship; a call to a ship.

half-hitch
The simplest form of a knot.

halyard
A hoisting line; the rope to raise a sail or spar.

hand bearing compass

A small, portable compass, usually used for taking bearings (or sightings).

hand lead
A weight, lowered on a rope, to determine water depth.

handsomely
Carefully, or slowly; in a proper manner, as in the easing (letting out) of a line.

handy-billy
A movable block and tackle.

hanging locker
A storage place; storage for clothing.

hank
A small snap hook to secure the jib luff to the headstay.

harbor
A safe anchorage; an anchorage protected from most storms; a location for loading/unloading a vessel.

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harbormaster
The person in charge of all anchorage matters.

hard-chined
A hull shaped with flat panels, that are joined at an angle.

hard over
Making an abrupt turn; turning a wheel (or tiller) in one direction as far as it can go.

hatch
A deck opening; a fitted hatch cover, which may be hinged or sliding; an opening to a lower ship compartment.

hauling
The pulling of a line; tugging on a rope.

hauling out
Removal of a vessel from water.

hauling part
The part of a tackle to which power is given.

hawse hole
A hull opening through which mooring lines are run.

hawsepipes
Hawse hole fittings; fitting used to stow and protect the upper portion of the anchor rode (in larger vessels).

hawser
A rope of a larger width; a rope having a diameter of more than 4.5 inches.

head
The toilet aboard a vessel; the head may refer to the entire compartment or the fixture itself.

heading
The current direction a ship is pointed.

headsail
Any sail (or set of sails) forward of the mast; sail(s) located in the foretriangle.

head seas
Waves coming towards the bow, as opposed to following seas.

headstay
The rigging from the bow to the top of the mast; the foremost stay.

headway
The forward movement (motion) of the ship through the water.

heave
To throw a rope or line; strongly pulling on a line.

heaving line
A coiled rope thrown from a vessel.

heaving to
Setting the sails in order to reduce headway speed (during a storm).

heavy weather
Stormy weather conditions; windy weather; notion of rough seas or dangerous situation.

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heel, heeling
To lean to one side; to tip. Also see LIST, ROLL

heeling error
The deviation of a compass reading which is created by the shift of heavy iron (engine/keel) within the vessel
such that the magnetic force varies.

helm
The tiller; the wheel; any steering device used by a vessel.

helmsman
The person steering the ship; person manning the helm.

high
In the weather system, it is an area of high atmospheric pressure.

high tide
High water level; the highest level water reaches in normal circumstances (non-storm related).

hitch
A knot used to attach a rope to an object, such as a cleat, spar or ring.

holding tank
A sewage storage tank.

homing
Steering the vessel towards the source of a radio beacon.

horizontal angle
When using a sextant, it is the angle established between landmarks, thus providing a line of position.

horseshoe buoy
A lifebuoy; an inverted, U-shaped PFD used in rescue operations.

hull
The structural body of a ship, excluding masts, riggings and superstructures.

hurricane
A tropical storm, with winds in excess of 60 mph; depending on its location, it is also called a cyclone (inland) or
typhoon (Pacific).

hydrofoil
A vessel that transverses over the water using underwater foils.

hydrography
The science associated with the surveying the earth's waters.

I
inboard
Inside; a motor fitted inside the boat; moving toward the vessels centerline.

inboard cruiser
A powerboat fitted with an inboard motor.

inflatable
Any watercraft that has an inflatable structure; a craft requiring inflation before it is operational.

18
Inland Rules
"Rules of the Road"; etiquette for navigating the waters of harbors, rivers and inland waters.

inlet
A narrow body of water such that it connects an inland and non-inland body of water.

Intracoastal Waterways
A series of connected rivers and canals that can be traveled (instead of the open seas).

in irons
A sailboat that loses headway, thus losing the ability to steer.

isobars
Found on a weather map, they are lines of equal atmospheric pressure.

isogonic lines
Found on a chart, they are lines of equal magnetic variation.

J
Jacob's Ladder
A rope ladder, which is lowered from the deck so that passengers may embark.

jetty
A natural or man-made structure that projects from the shore; typically used to prevent shoreline erosion.

jib
A triangular sail, usually set on the headstay.

jibe
To change direction (when sailing); when the sailboat's boom swings to the opposite side.

jiffy reefing
A reef that is tied in.

K
keel
The vessel's "backbone"; the lateral area beneath the hull which provides steering stability.

ketch
A two-masted sailing rig.

king plank
The ship's center plank; the center plank on a laid deck.

king spoke
When the rudder is in a centered position, it is the topmost spoke of the steering wheel.

knees
Structural members that connect/re-inforce a joint of two parts, such as the sternpost to the keel.

knot
Generic term for bend, hitch; Unit of speed - one nautical mile per hour.

19
 L
laid up
A vessel that is ready for use, but has not yet been commissioned.

lapstrake
Hull construction where planks (strakes) overlies the adjacent one (below it); also called clinker-built.

latitude
Geographic distances north or south of the equator; measurements are given in a combination of degrees, minutes
and seconds.

launch
The movement (insertion) of a vessel into water; a boat used to ferry people from shore to a moored ship, also
called a "shore boat".

lay
Twist of a stranded rope; usually twisted to the right.

lazarette
Small storage compartment, located at or near the stern.

lead
A weight on a marked rope, that is used to measure water depth; a weight used to collect bottom samples of clay,
mud and/or sand.

lead line
A weight (attached to a line) lowered into the water to determine depth; aka "hand lead"

lee
The direction in which the wind is blowing to; the direction toward which the wind blows;

leeboards
Anti-drift boards, usually attached to the gunwale.

leech
Lamprey or bloodsucker; the sail's trailing edge.

lee helm
A sailboat's tendency for its bow to turn leeward.

leeward
Toward the lee.

leeway
A ship's sideways drift; to allow a another vessel room to pass.

left-hand lay
Stranded rope where the twist is to the left.

length overall (LOA)

The distance between the tip of the bow and the end of the stern; the maximum length of the hull, excluding
rudder or projecting spars.

20
lifelines
Rope lines, located at the sides, designed to keep passengers from falling overboard.

life preserver
A personal flotation device(PFD); May be a cushion, vest , coat or ring

life raft
A small survival craft, which may be inflatable.

lights
Beacons; lighthouses; navigational aides that are equipped with light source(s).

limber holes
Drainage holes; holes in the bilge timbers of a boat.

line
A rope in use aboard a vessel.

linestoppers
A jamcleat; a rigging that keeps tension on a line.

list
A continuous leaning to one side.

LOA
See definition of "length overall".

load waterline
The vessel's expected waterline when it is fully equipped and loaded (with gear).

locker
A closet; A storage place or container.

log
A written record of a vessel's travels; a device that measures the distance run through the water; a tree trunk,
usually floating in the water.

longitude
The distance east or west of the Prime Meridian.

long splice
A splice that joins two rope ends.

lubber's line
A compass' index mark; the compass line that indicates the direction that the vessel is steering.

luff
The sail's leading edge; the forward part of a sail.

(LWL) length on the waterline

The vessel's length, including the rudder post.

21
 M
magnetic course
The direction of a ship's course in respect to true (magnetic) north.

magnetic meridian
A line of horizontal magnetic force of the earth to which a compass aligns itself (no deviations).

magnetic north
The direction a compass needle points, provided there are no deviation (from local disturbing influences).

mainsail
The sail hoisted on the "after" side of the mainmast; also called "mains'l".

make fast
Attaching a line; action of attaching a rope.

manila
A natural, fiber rope.

marina
A location, essentially a dock area, where recreational watercrafts are kept; usually piers, floats or service
facilities are available. See definition of "Naples Marina".

marine railway
A boat yard or marina railway, used to haul out vessels.

marline
A light (two-stranded) rope, used for lacings, seizings, servings and whippings.

marlinespike
A pointed steel tool that is used for splicing line.

mast
A vertical spar.

masthead light
A white-colored light, near/at the masthead; this light indicates a powered, underway vessel at night.

MAYDAY
A distress call, usually radio or telephone; Term originates from the French m'aidez, meaning "Help Me".

meridian
A line of longitude; a line perpendicular to the equator and passing through both (earth) poles.

messenger
A light line used to pass a heavier line (hawser or halyard) to shore or another ship

MIDAS Number
Maine Information Display & Analysis System Number; a number assigned to each body of water for tracking
purposes.

midships
Any location near the center of the vessel; may be measured either from fore-and-aft or side-to-side.

22
mile
A nautical mile is 1852 meters (6076.12 feet); a statute mile is 5280 feet.

mizzen mast
Spar on which the mizzen sail is hoisted; the aftermost (vertical) spar in a ketch or yawl.

monkey fist
A special knot typically used to weight the end of a heaving line.

moored
Anchored; vessel may be in its berth or made fast to a dock/pier/wharf.

mooring
Any place where ships are kept at anchor; (permanent) ground tackle.

Morse Code
Named after its inventor (Samuel Morse), it is a communication code; the code was originally used for the
telegraph, but has since been modified for radio use.

motorboat
A vessel that is propelled by an internal combustion engine.

motor sailers
An auxiliary sailboat, usually having spacious accommodations and a large motor.

mouse, mousing
Turns of twine, taken across a hook; wrapping twine around a hook to prevent unhooking..

multihull
Any ship design with more than one hull, such as catamaran or a trimaran.

mushroom anchor
A mushroom shaped mooring anchor, typically used with small fishing boats.

N
Napier diagram
A graphic plot of compass deviation values. This diagram provides a means of converting between magnetic and
compass directions.

Nautical Almanac
An annual publication that contains charts of celestial bodies and their movements. This text is issued jointly the
H.M. Nautical Almanac Office (Greenwich, England) and the U.S. Naval Observatory.

nautical mile
An international distance of 1852 meters or 6076.12 feet. For practical purposes, a nautical mile equals one
minute of latitude.

naval architect
An architect who specializes in marine design.

navigation
The science (or art) of determining a vessel's position and safely guiding it to another position. There are several
methods of navigation: coastal (aka piloting), celestial and radionavigation.

navigation lights
Lights on a vessel that indicate course, position and status (such as towing or fishing).

23
Navigation Rules
Official and recognized practices for navigation lights, meeting/passing vessels, sound signals and distress
signals.

neap tide
A tide of lowest range [rise and fall]; usually occurs when the sun and moon are farthest from being in line
(quarter and three-quarter moons).

net tonnage
A vessel's capacity in cubic feet [volume]; Net tonnage = Total capacity - non-cargo space.

non-slip
Anti-skid (walking surface).

Notice to Mariners
Information for updating charts and technical publications; A publication, produced by the Defense Mapping
Agency, USCG, and National Ocean Service, about navigational safety items, such as modifications to
navigational aids.

numbering
The official "licensing" of vessels; Federal mandate for identifying watercrafts in the USA, except Alaska where
it is monitored by the USCG.

nun
A cylindrical buoy, tapering toward the top; Usually are red (colored) and marked with an "even" number; A
buoy used in the lateral system of aids to navigation.

nylon
A polyamide synthetic material; Material used for rope and sailcloth, when elasticity is desired; Hard nylon is
used sheaves and other rigging parts.

O
oarlock
A pivoting device for oars; may be U-shaped or O-shaped.

offshore
Toward the water from the land; out of sight of land.

Omega Navigation System

An obsolete global radio navigation system.

outboard
Opposite of inboard; an exterior engine, attached at the transom; away or outside from a boat's hull.

outdrive
A boat propulsion system; an inboard engine with an exterior driveshaft; also called a stern drive; also called an
inboard/outboard motor.

outhaul
It is the tackle, line or (geared) mechanism that is used to adjust the sail's foot on a boom.

overall length
The extreme length of a ship, excluding any spars or fittings.

24
 P
painter
A towing or tie-up line for a small boat.

palm
The broad tip of an anchor fluke; a leather hand thimble, worn during canvas repairs.

parallax error
The error of reading the compas from the side, thus distorting the distance between the needle and the numerical
scale.

parallel rulers
A navigational device used in charting; a device made of two equi-length and parallel rulers that are connected by
a cross-piece.

parcel
Wraping tape (or other material) around a line (or wire) to prevent chafing.

passage
A trip; a journey; one leg of a voyage.

patent log
An instrument for measuring the distance run and speed.

pay out
Releasing a line in a controlled manner.

pedestal
The base of a mounted wheel (or helm).

pelorus
A sighting device used to determine relative bearings.

pennant
A signal flag; a small flag, usually triangular; a short length of cable between a vessel and a mooring chain.

personal flotation device (PFD)

See definition of "Life Preserver".
pier
A structure that extends into the water and is used as a landing for vessels.

pile, piling
A vertical pole driven into the water's bottom; may be used to support a pier or as a mooring site.

piloting
Navigating a vessel by using visual reference points.

pitch
The caulking material (tar or resin) between the planks of a wooden boat; when underway, it is the rise and fall of
the ship's bow; the (theoretical) distance a vessel advances from one propeller revolution.

planing hull
A hull specifically designed to reduce friction and increase speed.

planking
The wooden boards that made up the surface of the ship's deck.

25
Pleasure Vessel License
USCG documentation that prevents the commercial use of a vessel.

plumb bow
A hull having a vertical bow shape.

polyester
A synthetic material used in (rope) lines and sailcloth.

polypropylene
A (lightweight) synthetic material, typically used for cordage that floats, such as waterskiing towlines.

port
The left side of a vessel; opposite of starboard; an (small) opening for ventilation or light; established facilities for
maintaining ships.

port tack
A vessel sailing with the wind that is parallel and left to a

position finding
The process of determining the ship's position, in the water or on a chart.

pram
A dinghy with a squared shaped bow.

prevailing winds
The usual direction the wind blows in a given location.

prime meridian
The longitude of zero degrees, which passes through Greenwich.

privileged vessel
The ship having the right of way, when meeting another vessel.

propeller
A rotating device with multiple blades, that acts as a screw in propelling a boat.

protractor
A small instrument for measuring or drawing angles on a chart.

psychrometer
A weather instrument that measures the air moisture.

pulpit
The forward railing structure at the bow.

pump out
Emptying the waste tank.

purchase
Block and tackle; a mechanical device for lifting and pulling.

26
 Q
quarter
The side of a ship, from the stern to amidships.

quartering sea
Seas coming from the side (quarter).

quay
Located at the water's edge, a (masonry) structure where ships can load/unload cargo.

R
radar
An electronic system that measures distance by reflecting radio waves on objects.

radar arch
Arch-shaped supporting structure for radar.

radiobeacon
A transmitter that is located at a fixed location, thus enabling vessels to determine their position.

radio bearing
A direction determined by radio.

radio direction finder

A receiver that accepts the transmission of a radiobeacon.

radionavigation
A method of determining a ship's position using radar; electronic piloting.

rafted, rafting
A mooring procedure for multiple vessels, tied up side-by-side.

rail
A solid bar on supports, similiar to a lifeline; a protective edge on deck.

raised deck
A deck above the actual gunwale.

rake
The slant of a vessel's (bow or stern) funnels.

RDF
Radio Direction Finder; electronic radar instrument used to determine a ship's position.

reach, reaching
A channel located between an island and the mainland; Sailing across the wind.

reciprocal
The opposite direction; difference of 180 degrees.

reef
An underwater barrier, comprised of coral or rock; reducing the exposed area of a sail, by rolling the sail on a
boom or by tying in reef points.

reef knot

27
 Square knot; knot used to tie in a reef.

reef points
Tie lines used to shorten the sail area.

reeving
Rigging a halyard; leading a line gtrough a block and tackle.

registration
The boat numbering; the boat licensing.

relative bearing
Expressed in degrees, a direction in relation to the fore-and-aft line of a ship.

rhumb line
A straight line on a Mercator chart; a line intersecting all meridians at the same angle.

reverse sheer
Sheer the reverse of normal; the sheerline rises above the straight line from stem to stern instead of curving
below.

RIB
See definition of "Rigid Inflatable".

ribs
See definition of "Frame".

rig(s)
Spars; standing rigging and sails; to prepare a boat for use; to prepare a sail or gear for use.

rigging
The equipment (hardware, lines, rods, wire ropes) that support and control the sails and spars.

right-hand lay
The standard twist of stranded rope; rope with strands twisting to the right.

right of way
Yielding to another vessel in a passing scenario.

rigid inflatable
An inflatable boat having a rigid bottom.

rode
The anchor line.

roll
An alternating motion of side-to-side; leaning port to starboard and back.

roller furling
The method of furling a sail, by winding it on a stay.

roller reefing
Reduction of sail area, by winding the sail on a rotating boom.

rolling hitch
A knot used to attach a line to a spar or another line.

rope
Any form of cordage; line; may be braided or twisted strands.

28
round turn
Part of a knot; a turn of line around an object.

rowlock
See definition of "Oarlock".

rub rail
A guard on the hull's side to absorb wear from contact with pilings and docks.

rudder
The control surface by which a vessel is steered.

rudder post
The shaft connecting the rudder to the wheel (or tiller).

rules of the road

Navigational Rules; regulations used to prevent boating collisions.

running lights
A ship's navigational lights, used at night or inclimate weather.

running rigging
Adjustable lines used for controlling sails and spars.

S
scoops
See definition of "cowls".

safety harness
A harness with webbing and a safety line to keep people from falling overboard.

samson post
A single bitt forward used to fasten dock lines and the anchor (on a small vessel); a small forward derrick mast,
used with a cargo boom (on larger vessels).

satellite navigation
A form of radar positioning using satellites.

schooner
A sailing ship having two or more masts; usually the foremast is the shortest vertical spar.

scope
The amount of anchor cable to use; the ratio of anchor line in use to the vertical distance from the bow to the
water's bottom.

screw
The prop; the propeller.

scudding
Running before the wind in a gale.

scuppers
Drain holes (and piping); may be located in the deck, toe rail or bulwarks.

scuttlebutt
Rumors; Gossip; precursor to the modern day water cooler, it was a cask ocntaining drinking water.

29
sea anchor
Canvas, shaped in the form of a parachute, to keep the ship's bow to the seas in open water (and reduce drift).

sea cock
A (through-hull) fitting with valve that controls the flow of water between the vessel's exterior and interior.

seakindly
A vessel's ability to move comfortable (without undue strain) in rough seas.

seamanship
The arts and skills of handling a vessel, including: anchoring, docking, maintenance, marlinespike work, repairs,
rigging, sail handling and steering.

seiche
An oscillation of the surface of a lake (or landlocked sea) that varies in period from minutes to several hours.

seizing
Binding two lines together.

self-draining
Automatic draining.

sentinel
A weight suspended from the anchor line (rode) to help stop the anchor from dragging in rough weather.

serving
Protecting or covering part of a line to stop wear.

set, set out

To raise a sail; the direction of a current.

sextant
A navigational instrument, used for measuring angles, as in celestial navigation when the altitudes of heaven
bodies are taken when the known heights of objects ashore can be used to determine distance.

shackle
A metal link fitting, with a pin across the throat, used to connect lines to an anchor or sail.

shear pin
A safety device, used to fasten a propeller to its shaft. It is designed to break when the prop hits a solid object,
thereby preventing additional damage.

sheave
A pulley (grooved wheel) over which riggings wires run, used to change the direction of force.

sheer
The curvature of a deck, as seen from the side; to turn off course as a result of poor piloting.

sheerstrake
Topmost plank on the side of a wooden planked ship.

sheet
A line used to control the lateral movement of a sail.

sheet bend
A knot for bending a line to an eye; a knot for joining lines of differing widths.

ship
A large, ocean-going vessel; to take something aboard.

30
shipshape
In good condition; in good shape and ready for use.

shock cord
An elastic line.

short splice
A quick splice, as the end of two lines, which is moderately strong. Refer to "long splice".

shrouds
Fixed rigging of a mast.

sidelights
The (red and green) navigational lights; running lights.

signal halyard
The halyard used for hoisting the ship's signal flags.

slack
The looseness of a line; loose; to ease; not moving.

slack water
The period of little water movement between flood and ebb tidal currents.

sliding hatch
Hatch mounted on slides.

slip
A boat berth, located between piers or floats; the percentage difference between the theoretical and the actual
difference that a propeller advances when turning in water under load.

small stuff
Cordage such as sail twine, spun yard and marline; line used for servings and whippings.

snub a line
To quickly check a running rope, usually by tension around a bitt or cleat.

sole
The cabin floor; the cockpit floor.

soundings
Measurements of water depths (shown on a chart).

spars
Poles used in sailboat riggings; booms, gaffs and masts.

spinnaker
A three-cornered sail, used in downwind sailing.

splice
To join to lines; to make an eye of two lines; joining two lines by tucking strands or interweaving parts of a rope.

spoon bow
A bow that is shaped like the bowl of a spoon.

spring line
A standard dock line; a line used to control the fore/aft motion of a boat tied up.

31
spring tide
Opposite of neap tide; tides that are higher than normal, as a result of gravitational forces from the sun and moon
being in conjunction.

squall
A sudden, violent windstorm.

square knot
Reef knot; a knot useful for tying two ends of a line together.

square rigged
Ships rigged with square sails that are hung laterally.

stanchion
A metal post used to hold a deck's lifelines.

stand
The period of time when the vertical rise/fall of the tide has ceased.

standing part
The portion of a line not used in making a knot.

standing rigging
The permanent shrouds and stays; rigging used mainly to hold up the mast and take the strain of the sails.

stand-on vessel
The privileged vessel; the vessel having the right of way.

starboard
The right side of the ship; opposite of port.

starboard tack
A ship sailing with the wind coming over the right side is known to be on the starboard tack.

stateroom
The sleeping quarters of the captain and guests.

statute mile
A unit of land measurement; a distance of 5280 feet.

stays
Rigging; generally the rods and wires used to support the masts.

staysail
An additional foresail set between the jib and the mast.

steadying sail
A hoisted sail for the steadying effect of the wind, not for propulsion.

steerage way
The minimum forward motion of a vessel that enables it to respond to rudder movement.

stem
The forward member of the hull; the corresponding portion of the hull in composite construction.

step
To raise the mast and set it in place; at the base of the mast, the part of the boat in which the heel of the mast is
placed.

32
stepped
Referring to the mast, deck stepped or keel stepped.

stern
The aft part of the vessel.

stern drive
An I/O engine system, with the motor inside the hull.

stern line
Mooring line from the stern to the pier.

sternway
Opposite of headway; moving in reverse.

stores
Generic term for supplies; can be food or non-food items.

storm jib
A strong, small triangular headsail, typically used in heavy winds.

stow
To put items in their proper place.

strakes
Lines of planking.

stuffing box
A (through-hull) fitting for the rudder post or drive shaft; also called a gland.

suit of sails
A ship's full complement of sails.

superstructure
Any above deck structure.

surf
Breaking waves; waves breaking a bar, reef or shore.

survey
A vessel inspection for the purposes of insurance or purchase; the inspection is usually conducted by a marine
surveyor.

surveyor
A professional who examines vessels for purposes of insurance or purchase.

swamp
To fill a boat with water coming over the gunwale.

swell
A large, long, non-cresting wave.

swim platform
A transom platform used for boarding the boat from the water.

33
 T
tachometer
A device that indicates a motor's revolutions per minute.

tack
The forward, bottom corner of a sail; each leg of a zigzag course, sailed windward.

tacking
A sailing maneuver in which the direction of the boat is changed, so that the wind is coming from the opposite
side of the vessel.

tackle
A combination rig consisting of multiple blocks and lines.

tack rag
A (slightly) sticky cleaning cloth to pick up dust and dirt from the brightwork.

telltale
A wind-direction indicator; a windsock; it may be mounted on the mast, rigging or sail.

tender
A dinghy; a small boat to transport people and supplies to a larger vessel.

tensile strength
The load at which a line (rope or chain) would break; it is measured in pounds "of pull".

thimble
A metal fitting used in rigging.

throat
The forward upper corner of a four-sided fore-and-aft sail; the point where the throat halyard attaches.

thwart
A crossways seat; the seat of a rowboat that also adds to structural strength.

tidal current
The normal current caused by the rise and fall of the tides.

tides
The vertical rise and fall of the earth's waters, caused by the gravitational forces of the sun and the moon.

tide table
A set of data listing the timetable of low/high tides.

tiller
A lever, attached to the rudder post, used for controlling the rudder (when steering).

toe rail
Low bulwark on a small decked boat.

tonnage
The measure of a vessel's capacity or displacement.

34
topping lift
A running, rigging line to control a spar.

topsides
To be on/above deck, rather than below; the sides of a ship above the waterline.

towing
An assistance or rescue maneuver of another vessel; pulling another boat through the water.

track
Rigging fitting, composed of metal or plastic, used to control blocks, spars and other rigging; the vessel's path
charted on a map.

traffic separation scheme

A generally agreed upon plan by which vessels in high-traffic areas have one-way routes to prevent possible
collisions.

transom
The transverse portion of the stern.

trim, trimmed
To set and adjust the sails, by the use of rigging and sheets; the way in which a ship floats on an even keel, by
shifting its ballast.

trimaran
A vessel with three hulls.

trip line
A second line attached to an anchor, to assist with its retrieval.

trough
The depression of water between two waves or crests.

true course
A course that is referenced to geographic north; a course that is corrected for deviation and variation.

true north
Geographic north, opposed to magnetic north.

true wind
The actual wind direction and force, different than the apparent wind.

tumblehome
The inward curving of the topsides (above the waterline).

tune
To make an adjustment for maximum efficiency.

tunnel hull
A hull design to reduce propeller draft.

turnbuckle
An adjustable, threaded rigging fitting, used for lifelines and stays.

turning circle
The course of a vessel when turning; the smallest possible circular path when the rudder is hard over.

twine
Light line; line used for servings and whippings.

35
two-blocked
Fully closed up; when both blocks in a purchase are drawn completely together.

two half-hitches
A knot; a knot in which two hitches are made upon the standing portion of the line and tightened.

U
underway
A vessel in motion, not aground, not at anchor.

Underwriters Laboratories (UL)

An organization that tests the safety levels of equipment.

upwind
To the windward of.

USCG
United States Coast Guard; The federal marine law enforcement and rescue agency (of the USA).

USPS
United States Power Squadrons; A private organization that specializes in good boating practices and boating
safety.

V
V-drive
Mechanism used with an engine installation that has the normally aft-facing end of the motor facing forward.

V-hull
Hull that is "V" shaped, opposed to "U" shaped or other.

variation
A compass "error" that occurs, since true north and magnet north are not always aligned.

vector
A line that represents both direction and magnitude (of force).

veer
To swerve; to change direction suddenly; to change direction, opposed to backing.

vent
An opening of the ventilation system.

ventilator
Openings that are fitted with cowls, which directs air/vapor flow.

vessel
A boat; a ship; a watercraft; a moving and floating craft.

VHF radio
A "V"ery "H"igh "F"requency electronic communications system.

voyage
A complete trip; A round trip, as distinguished from a "passage".

36
 W
wake
The trailing disturbance of water behind a moving vessel; the water track resulting from the vessel's passage.

wash
Surging wave action.

water ballast
Ballast, composed of water, in tanks.

waterline
A painted line that represents the intersection of hull's bottom and its topsides.

waves
Undulations of the water; may be caused by wind or gravitational forces affecting the earth.

weather helm
The ship's tendency to turn windward.

weather shore
The opposite of "lee shore"; the coast lying in the direction from where the wind is blowing.

weather side
The vessel's side upon which the wind is blowing.

weigh
Raising of the anchor; to leave; to depart.

well-found
Well supplied; to be properly fitted out with adequate supplies and equipment.

wetted surface
The hull's area (including rudder) in the water, affecting speed.

wharf
A structure for docking vessels, which is parallel to the shore.

wheel
The steering wheel; the helm; the propeller.

whipping
Twine wrapped (wound) around another line to prevent wear and to add strength.

whistle signal
A standard communication between vessels to indicate dangerous situations; some communications may require a
course change.

winch
A device designed to haul/pull a line.

windage
Any form of wind resistance.

windlass
A special winch; a winch with a rotating drum.

windward
The direction from where the wind is blowing.

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workboat
A small vessel used for boating chores, such as putting down moorings and transporting supplies

working sails
Sails normally used, apart from storm/light weather sails.

worm
To fill in the spaces (void) in laid rope.

X
None at this time.

Y
yacht
A pleasure boat; A pleasure vessel; A watercraft where luxury is conveyed; Vessel may be power or sail
propelled.

yard
A location where boats are constructed, repaired or stored; A spar (crossing the mast). on which square sails are
fitted.

yaw
To steer or swing off course (as when running with a quartering sea).

yawl
A rig for two-masted sailboats, in which there is a mainmast and a (smaller) mizzen mast, stepped aft of the
rudder post.

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