sailboat in simple terms

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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50 Nautical, Sailing & Boat Terms for Beginners 

Table of Contents

Last Updated on September 29, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

Boating has its own vocabulary and if you’re going to be spending time on the water, you should understand a few basic boat terms. Knowing these will make you safer as well as more useful whether boating on your own, chartering or helping friends on their boat.

Let’s divide these words into basic nautical terms and specific sailing terms, listed in alphabetical order.

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30 Commonly Used Nautical & Boating Terms

Here are a few expressions you’ll hear aboard both a powerboat and sailboat, or even at the dock before boarding your boat rental or charter.

• Aft – the direction toward the back or stern of a boat.
• Ashore – not on a boat but on land or a dock .
• Ballast – extra weight laid low in a boat to provide stability.
• Beam – the width of a boat at its widest point, usually the middle.
• Bow – the front of a boat. Multihulls like catamarans have more than one bow.
• Bunk – a built-in bed on a boat.
• Cabin – the sleeping accommodations on a boat .
• Cockpit – the main seating area of a boat that may also include the helm station .
• Crew – the people or staff that help drive and manage the boat.
• Deck – the top or horizontal structure that is laid over the hull of a deck.
• Dock line – the ropes used to tie a boat to a dock.
• Fender – a rubber, vinyl or foam bumper used to protect the boat at a dock; often referred to by novice boaters as “bumpers.”
• Forward – the direction toward the front or bow of a boat.
• Galley – the kitchen on a boat. It can be inside or out on deck.
• Head – the toilet or bathroom on a boat.
• Helm – the boat’s steering mechanism. It can be a tiller or a wheel.
• Helm station – the area where from which you command or drive a boat.
• Hull – the body or shell of a boat including the bow and stern.
• Keel – the longitudinal structure at the bottom of the hull and generally on the centerline. The keel helps with stability and tracking.
• Knot – either various loops tied in a line or a unit of speed which equals one nautical mile per hour.
• Line – any rope on a boat is referred to as a line – not a rope.
• Nautical mile – a unit of measurement used on the water. A nautical mile is approximately 1.2x a statue mile.
• Onboard – on a boat whether on deck, on the cockpit or below.
• Port – the left-hand side of a boat when you’re facing forward or toward the bow.
• Rudder – an appendage below the boat that is controlled by the wheel or tiller to steer the boat. A boat may have more than one rudder.
• Starboard – the right-hand side of a boat when you’re facing forward.
• Stern – the place at the back of a boat.
• Transom – the actual structure of the back edge of a boat.
• Wake – the turbulence left behind a moving boat.
• Waterline – the place where the hull of a boat meets the surface of the water.

20 Sailing & Sailboat Terms

Within boating, sailing has its own specific vernacular. You’ll want to understand it before you step aboard a sailboat to help crew or when taking a lesson.

• Apparent wind – the combination of true wind and the motion of the boat at the time. It’s the wind you feel onboard.
• Boom – the horizontal pole which extends from the mast aft. It holds the bottom of the mainsail.
• Ease – to adjust sails outward or away from the centerline of a boat.
• Halyard – the line used to raise a sail whether a mainsail or a headsail.
• Headsail – a sail that is forward of the mast. It can be a genoa, a jib, a staysail or a small storm sail.
• In irons – technically a point of sail when you’re head-to-wind meaning the bow is pointing directly into the true wind and the boat is unable to maneuver.
• Jibing (also spelled gybing) – changing direction where the stern swings through the eye of the wind.
• Leeward – the direction away from where the wind is blowing.
• Mainsail – the primary sail on a boat which is usually attached in some way to the mast and boom. On most sailboats it’s the primary source of power.
• Mast – the vertical pole that supports the sails. The mast itself is supported by the rigging.
• Points of sail – the boat’s direction under sail relative to the true wind . The points of sail are: close-hauled, close reach, beam reach, broad reach and dead run.
• Reefing – shortening or reducing the area of a sail to de-power a sailboat usually used in a strong wind.
• Sheet – the line that controls the angle of a sail. There are mainsheets, jib/genoa sheets and others.
• Shroud – a part of the boat’s rigging that supports the mast from side-to-side
• Stay – a part of the boat’s rigging that supports the mast fore and aft.
• Tacking – changing direction under sail where the bow swings through the eye of the wind.
• Trim – to adjust sails inward or closer to the centerline of a boat.
• True wind – the actual wind that is blowing – both direction and speed.
• Winch – a rotating drum used to help control lines with a lot of pressure on them. A winch is cranked with a winch handle.
• Windward – the direction from where the wind is blowing.

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Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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30 Must-Know Sailing Terms, Phrases and Slang

June 9, 2024

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Set sail on an epic adventure across the high seas with language as your compass!

From the salty whispers of old seadogs to the crisp commands on a racing skiff, mastering these 30 essential sailing terms will transform you from a landlubber to a savvy sailor.

Hoist the sails and let’s navigate the nautical jargon together!

Must-Know Sailing Terms, Phrases and Slang:

• Gybe (jibe)

Table of Contents

#7 Gybe (jibe)

#12 leeward, #16 sail trim, #17 starboard, #20 telltale, #21 windward, #28 mainsail, #29 spinnaker, what are some sailing terms for beginners, what are some funny sailing terms, what is a famous sailing phrase.

The aft refers to the back of the boat or nearer to the stern. Sailors often say “move aft” when directing someone towards the rear end of the vessel, an essential term for orientation on board.

The beam of a boat is its widest part and is a critical dimension for stability. When winds blow from the side, they hit the beam, making an understanding of this term important for handling the vessel.

The bow is the front end of a sailing vessel. When facing forward, sailors will refer to things in front of the boat or point out objects by saying “off the bow.”

To capsize is to overturn in the water, causing the boat to flip onto its side or completely upside down. This term is crucial for safety discussions and is one sailors hope they rarely have to use.

The deck is the surface area on top of the boat that crew can walk on. It’s where the majority of sailing activity takes place and where equipment like winches and cleats are mounted.

To furl a sail is to roll or fold it up neatly, usually to reduce its surface area in strong winds or when not in use. Proper sail furling is essential for sail management and longevity.

A maneuver used to change the direction of a sailboat by turning the stern through the wind. This contrasts with tacking, where the bow moves through the wind. Gybing is often used when sailing downwind and requires careful handling to prevent the boom from swinging dangerously across the boat.

A line or rope used to hoist (raise) or lower sails on a boat. Each sail typically has its own halyard which is attached to the head of the sail; pulling on the halyard raises the sail up the mast to catch the wind.

The helm is the wheel or tiller used to steer a boat. Standing at the helm, a sailor has control over the vessel’s direction, playing a critical role in navigation and maneuvering.

A jib is a triangular sail set forward of the main mast, generally used to increase speed and manageability. Sailors adjust the jib to optimize boat performance in various wind conditions.

The keel is a structural component extending along the bottom of a boat’s hull, from bow to stern, providing stability and minimizing sideways drift. It’s crucial for balance and can house ballast to keep the vessel upright.

Leeward, or the lee side, refers to the side of a boat sheltered from the wind. Sailors often use this term to describe the direction downwind or an area with lesser wind pressure.

The mast is a tall, vertical pole on a ship that supports the sails and rigging. It’s a critical component for sailboats, as it serves as the focal point for sail attachment and wind harnessing.

Port denotes the left side of a boat when facing the bow. A mnemonic to remember is “port” and “left” both of which have four letters. It’s also marked with a red light at night.

A flat piece, usually made of wood, fiberglass, or metal, located beneath the boat that is used to steer. The rudder is controlled by the helm (steering wheel or tiller), allowing the skipper to guide the boat’s direction through the water.

The art of adjusting the position and shape of the sails in response to wind conditions and desired boat speed or direction. Proper sail trim optimizes the boat’s performance and efficiency, making it a crucial skill for effective sailing.

Refers to the right-hand side of a boat when facing forward toward the bow. Sailors need to remember “port” is left, “starboard” is right, crucial for navigation and obeying the rules of the water.

The back or aft-most part of a vessel, opposite of the bow. From the stern, sailors control steering and often find the propulsion system, essential for maneuvering and power management on the water.

In sailing, to tack is to turn the boat’s bow through the wind to change direction, also the lower corner of a sail. Skilled tacking is fundamental for making headway against the wind and requires precise crew coordination.

Strips of fabric or yarn attached to sails or rigging that indicate wind direction relative to the boat. Observing telltales helps sailors optimize sail trim and boat positioning for maximum efficiency.

The direction from which the wind is blowing, the opposite of leeward. Sailors often need to keep track of the windward side for strategic positioning, especially during racing or in crowded waters.

A two-masted sailing craft with the mizzenmast (the smaller second mast) positioned behind the rudder post. The yawl rig is favored for cruising due to its balance and ease of handling in various wind conditions.

The lowest compartment on a ship, below the waterline, where water typically collects and is often pumped out to prevent sinking. The bilge can also refer to the broader internal parts of a hull.

A horizontal pole that extends from the bottom of a mast, used to secure the bottom of a sail. It swings from side to side, and caution is needed to avoid it during maneuvers like tacking or gybing.

A device fixed to the deck or mast used to secure rope ends. Cleats can be horned, cam, or clam in shape, and are essential for holding lines in place, especially when mooring or adjusting sail trim.

The area where boats are parked, tied, and secured to a pier or wharf. Docks provide access to land for loading and unloading, as well as a place for maintenance and repair.

A unit of speed in nautical terms, equivalent to one nautical mile per hour. The term also refers to the tying of ropes in various configurations for securing and rigging purposes.

The primary and usually the largest sail on a typical sailboat, hoisted on the mainmast. It provides the main driving force for the sailboat and is manipulated for steering and speed control.

A spinnaker is a large, lightweight sail designed for sailing downwind or on a reaching course when the wind comes from behind the boat. When deployed, it fills with wind and balloons out in front of the boat, significantly boosting speed. Widely used in racing for its effective wind harnessing, spinnakers come in various shapes and sizes tailored to different sailing conditions and boat types.

A mechanical device on a boat used to handle heavy loads, such as tightening the ropes (sheets) that control the sails. Winches provide mechanical advantage, making it easier to pull in or let out sails, especially under strong wind conditions. They are essential for managing larger sails and conducting precise adjustments.

“Aft,” “Bow,” “Stern,” and “Mainsail” are some sailing terms beginners should start with. These basic terms help novices understand directions and parts of the boat.

“Boom,” “Jib,” and “Bilge” are some funny sailing terms that can sound amusing outside the sailing context, bringing a lighter side to nautical vocabulary.

“Three sheets to the wind” is a famous sailing phrase, historically referring to a ship with its sheets (lines controlling the sails) flapping loosely in the wind, implying that the vessel is out of control, often used today to describe someone who is inebriated.

Meet Rev, one of our dedicated team members who embodies the essence of sports passion. When he’s not immersed in the world of sports content creation, Rev is busy honing his skills in esports and exploring the great outdoors through activities like hiking and basketball.

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A Complete List Of Sailing Terms

Sailing terminology and jargon can be difficult to understand for a complete beginner.

We've compiled a list of sailing terms, vocabulary, lingo, and phrases with their meanings and definitions.

Filter the sailing terms by letter:

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

The sailing terms beginning with the letter A are:

• Abaft : Toward the stern of a boat and behind the middle of the boat
• Abandon Ship : An instruction to leave the boat immediately. This is an emergency situation and everyone needs to get off the boat
• Abeam : On a line at right angles to a ship's or an aircraft's length
• Able Seaman : A crew member with experience and expertise in working on deck and handling the sailboat's rigging and equipment
• Aboard : This is a nautical term to describe being on or in a boat
• Above Board : This means anything on or above the boat deck
• Adrift : Not anchored or not securely moored, drifting with the current or wind
• Aft : The aft is the area at the back of the boat. It is also known as the stern
• Aft cabin : This is a sleeping cabin at the aft side (rear) of the boat
• Aftmost : Furthest towards the stern (back) of the boat
• Aground : When the boat is resting on or touching the ground below the bottom of the water
• A-hull : A-hull refers to a situation where a boat is secured to its anchor and is lying in the direction of the wind and waves, with all sails furled and no movement. This is typically done as a safety measure in severe weather conditions when the boat is in danger of capsizing or otherwise being damaged. It is also used as a strategy to wait out a storm or other adverse weather
• Alee : Away from the wind
• All Hands On Deck : This phrase is used to call all crew members to the deck of a sailing vessel, and is often used as a call to action in times of emergency. It is also considered a good omen for a ship to have all hands on deck before setting sail.
• Aloft : Above the deck or in the upper parts of the mast or rigging
• Anchor : A device used to hold or anchor a boat in a specific location on the water
• Anchor Buoy : A buoy attached to an anchor that is used to indicate the location of the anchor on the bottom
• Apeak : When the anchor is at the highest point of the bow when it is rode out
• Apparent Wind : The wind direction and speed observed by the crew in combination with the true wind direction and speed, which can be different due to the boat's motion
• Ashore : To or on the shore or land from the direction of the sea
• Astern : Behind or at the rear of a boat. If a boat is traveling astern, it is going in reverse
• Athwartship : Having a position across a vessel from side to side at right angles to the keel

The sailing terms beginning with the letter B are:

• B & R Rigging : B&R rigging refers to a specific type of rigging system used on sailing boats. The B&R rigging system is a combination of a traditional forestay and backstay system, with a flexible rig that allows for a more efficient sail shape in a wide range of wind conditions
• Back A Sail : Back a sail refers to the action of filling a sail with wind from the opposite direction, or "backwards" direction of the sailboat's forward motion. This is done by adjusting the sail and the direction of the boat so that the wind is blowing into the back of the sail, causing the sail to fill with wind and push the boat in the opposite direction. Backing a sail can be used to slow the boat down, change direction, or to help keep the boat in a specific location
• Backstay : A rope or cable that runs from the mast to the stern of a sailboat. It is used to support the mast and control the shape of the sails
• Baggywrinkle : A soft covering for cables to reduce sail chafe
• Ballast : Ballast refers to the weight placed on the bottom of a sailboat to improve its stability and balance. The weight of the ballast helps to counteract the force of the wind on the sails
• Ballast Keel : A vertical downward extension of the boat's hull, narrowly V-shaped. It is ballasted or weighted for stability and lateral resistance
• Barque : This is a sailboat with 3 or more masts with all the masts being square-rigged except the sternmost, which is fore-and-aft-rigged
• Batten : A batten is a primary structure of a mainsail. It supports the sail's shape
• Beam : The width of the boat, measured at its widest point
• Beam Reach : A point of sail in which the wind is coming from the side of the boat, resulting in the sails being at a 90-degree angle to the centerline of the boat
• Bear Away : Bear away, also known as falling off, means to turn a boat away from the direction of the wind
• Beat : This is sailing in a zig-zag formation toward the wind
• Beaufort Scale : A scale used to measure wind speed and the resulting sea conditions. It is named after Francis Beaufort, an officer in the Royal Navy
• Below Deck : Below deck in boating refers to the interior of a boat, typically the area below the main deck. This area is usually enclosed and protected from the elements, and typically includes living spaces such as cabins, heads (bathrooms), galley (kitchen), and salon (common area).
• Bermuda Rig : A Bermuda rig, also known as a Marconi rig, is a type of sailboat rigging that is characterized by a triangular mainsail and a jib sail. The mainsail is attached to the mast and the boom, with the boom extending out from the mast. The jib sail is attached to the forestay, which is a cable or rope that runs from the bow of the boat to the mast
• Bermuda Sloop : Bermuda sloop is a specific type of sailboat design that originated in Bermuda. It is characterized by a single mast, with a triangular mainsail and a jib sail, and it is the most popular sailboat design in the world. Bermuda sloops are known for their efficiency and ability to sail well in a wide range of wind conditions.
• Berth : A bed or sleeping area on a boat. For example, a 6-berth boat is a boat that can sleep 6 people
• Bight : A bend in a sailing rope
• Bimini Top : A Bimini top is a type of boat cover or canopy that is mounted on the top of a sailboat, typically on the stern or the cockpit area. The Bimini top provides shade and protection from the sun and rain for the passengers and crew on the boat
• Bilge : The lowest part of a boat's interior, typically located near the keel, where water collects and needs to be pumped out
• Binnacle : A binnacle is a housing or container on a boat that is used to protect and secure a vessel's compass. It is typically located near the helm or steering station
• Bon Voyage : This is a French phrase that literally means "good voyage" and is often used as a way to say "good luck" to someone setting out on a journey
• Boom : A boom on a sailboat is a horizontal spar, or pole, that extends out from the mast of a sailboat. The boom is used to support and control the bottom edge, or foot, of a sail. The boom also helps to shape the sail and control the angle at which the wind hits it, allowing the boat to move efficiently through the water
• Bosun : A crew member in charge of maintenance and upkeep of the boat's hull, rigging, and equipment.
• Bow : The bow is the front area of a boat
• Bridge : A room or platform area of a boat from which the boat can be operated
• Brig : A sailing vessel with two square-rigged masts
• Brigantine : A two-masted sailboat, square-rigged on the foremast but fore-and-aft-rigged on the mainmast
• Bulkhead : A bulkhead refers to a vertical wall within the interior of a boat that helps to divide the space and provide structural support. They are typically found below deck on a sailboat
• Bumper : A type of fender used to protect a boat from damage when it is moored or docked.
• Buoy : It is a device or object that is placed in the sea to aid navigation. For racing, it's used to set the race course and for recreational sailing, it is used to mark areas to avoid (among a few other purposes)

The sailing terms beginning with the letter C are:

• Cabin : This is a room inside a boat, typically found below the deck
• Canvas : A boat canvas refers to the various types of fabric or material used on boats to provide protection, shade, and shelter. Types of canvas include Bimini top, sail cover, dodger, etc.
• Capsize : When a boat heels over so far that the keel is lifted out of the water and the boat overturns
• Captain : The person in command of the sailboat. They are responsible for operating the boat safely
• Catamaran : Any vessel with two hulls
• Center-board : A board lowered through a slot in the keel to reduce leeway
• Chart Plotter : An electronic navigation device that plots the location and position of a sailboat on the water
• Cleat : A cleat is a device used on boats to secure ropes or lines. It typically consists of two horizontal arms with holes or slots that can be tightened around a rope by pulling on the line and then making a turn or two around the arms. Cleats are used to secure lines when docking, mooring, or anchoring a boat, and can be found on the deck, gunwale, or cockpit of a boat
• Clew : A clew is the lower aft corner of a sail
• Clipper : A sailboat designed for speed
• Cockpit : An enclosed space on a sailboat's deck where a sailboat is controlled or steered
• Cook : A crew member responsible for preparing and cooking meals for the crew
• Course : This is the direction in which a boat is traveling
• Close-Hauled : A point of sail where the boat is sailing as close to the wind as possible

The sailing terms beginning with the letter D are:

• Dead Reckoning : a method of navigation that involves calculating a ship's position by using information about its speed and direction over a certain period of time
• Deadrise : The angle between the bottom of a boat and the horizontal plane of the water
• Deck : The horizontal surface area on the top of the boat
• Deckhand : A member of the crew responsible for various tasks such as hoisting sails, steering the ship, and maintaining the deck
• Dock : A fixed structure attached to the shore to which a vessel is secured when in port
• Downbound : This is when a vessel is traveling downstream
• Draft : The depth of water a boat requires to float measured from the waterline to the lowest point of the hull
• Drift : The sideways movement of a boat caused by wind or current
• Drogue : A device that is towed behind a boat to slow it down or to keep it from drifting too quickly
• Drowned Out : When the wind is too strong for the sails and the boat can no longer make headway

The sailing terms beginning with the letter E are:

• Ease : To let out or slacken a line or sail
• Emergency Tiller : A backup steering system for a boat, typically used when the regular steering system fails
• Engineer : A crew member responsible for the maintenance and operation of the sailboat's engines and mechanical systems
• Entering A Port : This refers to the process of navigating a boat into a harbor or marina
• External Lead : This refers to the navigation method of determining the position of a boat by measuring the angle between two visible objects on shore or on buoys, using a lead line
• Eye Of The Wind : The direction from which the wind is blowing
• Eye-Splice : A way of creating a permanent loop in the end of a sailing rope

The sailing terms beginning with the letter F are:

• Fair Winds And Following Seas : This phrase is often used as a wish for good luck and smooth sailing
• Fairlead : A fitting through which ropes are led in order to change their direction or reduce friction
• Fathom : A unit of measurement for depth, equal to six feet
• Fender : A device placed between a boat and a dock or another boat to protect the boat from damage
• First Mate : The officer in charge of the deck crew, responsible for navigation and safety
• Foresail : A sail located at the front of a sailboat, also called jib
• Freeboard : The distance from the waterline to the deck of a boat
• Frigate : A type of ship, typically used for naval warfare or as a command ship for a fleet
• Furl : To roll or wrap a sail around a boom or mast in order to take it down
• Fetch : The distance over which a wind has blown without significant obstacle
• Front : The boundary between two different air masses, often associated with changes in temperature and precipitation

The sailing terms beginning with the letter G are:

• Gaff : A spar used to extend the upper edge of a fore-and-aft sail
• Gale : A strong wind with a speed of between 34-47 knots
• Geared Winch : A mechanical winch that is powered by gears and used to raise or lower a sail
• Genoa : A type of jib sail that is larger than a standard jib
• Give-Way Vessel : A vessel required to take action to avoid a collision with another vessel as per the international regulations for preventing collisions at sea (COLREGS)
• Godspeed : This phrase is used to wish someone a safe and successful journey
• Gunwale : The upper edge of the side of a boat
• Gybe : A maneuver in which a boat changes direction by turning its stern through the wind and causing the sail to change sides
• Gyroscopic Compass : A type of compass that uses a spinning wheel to provide stable and accurate heading information

The sailing terms beginning with the letter H are:

• Heading : The direction in which a boat is pointed, usually measured in degrees from true or magnetic north
• Heading Up : This refers to turning the bow of a sailboat towards the wind
• Heavy Weather : Severe weather conditions such as high winds, heavy seas, and storms
• Halyard : A rope or line used to hoist or lower a sail or flag. There is likely 1 halyard for each sail
• Hard Alee : An order to turn the bow of the boat as far as possible in the opposite direction of the wind
• Hatch : An opening in the deck of a boat, used for access to the interior or for ventilation
• Headstay : The cable or rod that supports the forestay, and holds the mast in the forward direction
• Helm : The helm of a sailboat is the steering mechanism of the boat, typically located at the back or the stern of the boat, and is used to control the direction of the boat. The helm is typically a wheel or tiller
• Helmsman : The person who steers the boat
• Helmsman's Seat : A seat located close to the helm, used by the helmsman to steer the boat
• Hiking : When a crew member moves out on the rail of the boat to counteract the heeling force of the wind and keep the boat level
• Hiking Strap : A strap used by a crew member to hold on to while hiking out on the rail of the boat
• Hurricane : A severe tropical storm with winds of 74 mph (119 km/h) or greater

The sailing terms beginning with the letter I are:

• International Regulations for Preventing Collisions At Sea (COLREGS) : A set of rules that govern the behavior of vessels on the water in order to prevent collisions
• Inboard : A motor or engine that is located inside the boat, as opposed to an outboard motor which is mounted outside the boat
• In Irons : A situation when a sailing vessel is stopped or hindered in its progression through the water because the wind is blowing directly onto the sail, preventing the vessel from moving forward
• Inhaul : A line or rope used to adjust the position of a sail
• Inshore : Close to the shore
• Inner Forestay : A rope or cable that supports the mast and holds the jib or genoa sail in place
• Iron Mike : This is a slang term for a sailboat's autopilot
• Irons : When a boat is stopped or hindered in its progression through the water because the wind is blowing directly onto the sail, preventing the vessel from moving forward
• Islands : Natural land formations that are surrounded by water

The sailing terms beginning with the letter J are:

• Jib : A triangular sail located at the front of a sailboat, also known as a foresail
• Jibe : A maneuver in which a boat changes direction by turning its stern through the wind and causing the sail to change sides
• Jib Sheet : A line used to control the angle of the jib sail
• Jumper Stay : An additional stay that supports the mast and is used to tension the headstay
• Jib Tack : The lower forward corner of a jib sail
• Jibing : Turning the boat so that the wind blows on the opposite side of the sail
• Jib Hanks : metal or plastic clips that hold the jib sail to the forestay
• Jib Furling : A system for rolling up a jib sail and securing it to the forestay when not in use

The sailing terms beginning with the letter K are:

• Keel : A long, heavy structural member that runs along the bottom of a boat's hull, providing stability and helping to keep the boat upright
• Knot : A unit of speed, equal to one nautical mile per hour
• Kedge : A small anchor used to hold a boat in a particular position or to move a boat by hauling it on a line
• King Plank : The centerline plank in the bottom of a boat that runs parallel to the keel
• Knees : Strong brackets that are used to support the deck and reinforce the hull-to-deck joint of a boat
• Knockdown : When a boat is hit by a large wave and it's knocked down on its side, causing water to flood the deck
• Kedge Anchor : a small anchor used as a temporary anchor to hold a boat in a particular position

The sailing terms beginning with the letter L are:

• Lazy Jacks : Lines or webbing that are used to guide the mainsail as it is lowered, making it easier to handle
• Leach : The back edge of a sail
• Lead Line : A line with a weight (lead) on the end, used to determine the depth of water beneath a boat
• Leeward : The direction away from the wind
• Luff : The leading edge of a sail, or the flapping or fluttering of a sail caused by wind coming from the wrong angle
• Luffing : When a sail is flapping or fluttering caused by wind coming from the wrong angle
• Lying Ahull : When a boat is allowed to drift without any sail set, used in heavy weather to prevent capsizing
• Life Jacket : A device worn by people on boats to keep them afloat in case of emergency, also known as a personal flotation device (PFD)
• Lifeline : A safety line that runs around the perimeter of a boat, used to prevent crew members from falling overboard
• Log : A device used to measure the speed of a boat through the water
• Long keel : A type of keel that extends the full length of the boat's hull, providing stability and helping to keep the boat upright

The sailing terms beginning with the letter M are:

• Mainsail : The largest sail on a sailboat, located at the back of the boat and controlled by the main sheet
• Main Sheet : A line used to control the angle of the mainsail
• Mast : The tall vertical spar that supports the sails of a boat
• Moor : To tie or anchor a boat in a specific location
• Mooring : A location where a boat can be tied or anchored
• Motor Sailor : A boat with both a sail and an engine propulsion
• Mainsail Halyard : A rope or line used to hoist the mainsail
• Mark : A buoy or other object used as a reference point for navigation
• Mariner's Compass : A type of compass that is used on boats and ships, typically featuring a magnetized needle that points towards magnetic north.
• Man Overboard (MOB) : A situation in which someone falls off a boat and into the water

The sailing terms beginning with the letter N are:

• Nautical Mile : A unit of measuring distance at sea that is used in navigation, equal to 1.85 kilometers
• Navigation Lights : lights required by international regulations to be displayed on boats in order to indicate the boat's position and direction of travel at night
• Navigation : The process of planning, tracking, and controlling the movement of a boat or ship
• Navigator : The officer responsible for charting the sailboat's course, using navigation instruments and maps
• Navigational Aids : Any device or system that helps a boat or ship navigate, such as buoys, lighthouses, and radar.
• Nautical Chart : A map specifically designed for navigation on the water, showing water depths, coastlines, navigational hazards, and other important information
• Natural Navigation : the traditional method of navigation using natural cues such as the stars, sun, moon, and the movement of ocean currents and waves
• Navigation Rules : A set of regulations that govern the movement of boats and ships in order to prevent collisions
• Navigation Software : Computer programs that assist in navigation by providing information such as navigation chart, water depth, weather forecasts and routes
• Navigation Lights : Lights that are required by international regulations to be displayed on boats and ships in order to indicate the vessel's position and direction of travel at night
• Navigational Sextant : An instrument used for measuring the angle between two visible objects, typically the horizon and a celestial body, used for navigation and determining a vessel's position at sea

The sailing terms beginning with the letter O are:

• Outboard : Also called outboard motor, an outboard refers to a motor or engine that is mounted outside the boat, as opposed to an inboard motor which is located inside the boat.
• Overboard : When something falls or is thrown off the boat into the water
• Offshore : Away from the shore
• Off The Wind : Sailing with the wind blowing from behind the boat.
• Outhaul : A line or rope used to adjust the position of a sail.
• Outrigger : An extension or framework that is attached to the side of a boat to increase stability.
• Overfall : A type of wave that forms when the wind and current are opposing, leading to steep, breaking waves.
• Overhead : The highest point in a boat, typically the top of the cabin or the coach roof
• Owner's Cabin : A room in a boat that is reserved for the owner, usually the largest and most comfortable cabin

The sailing terms beginning with the letter P are:

• Paddle : A tool used for propelling a boat through the water, typically consisting of a long shaft with a flat blade on one end
• Piling : A vertical structural member driven into the bottom of a body of water to support a dock or pier
• Porthole : A small window in the hull of a boat that provides light and ventilation to the interior
• Personal Flotation Device (PFD) : A device worn by people on boats to keep them afloat in case of emergency, also known as a life jacket
• Port : The left side of a boat when facing the bow (front)
• Pitch : The up-and-down movement of a boat caused by waves
• Planking : The process of covering a boat's hull with thin wooden planks
• Planking Seam : The joint between two adjacent planks on a boat's hull
• Point Of Sail : This is the direction you are going relative to the direction from where the wind is coming
• Propeller : A device that is attached to the bottom of a boat's hull, used to propel the boat through the water

The sailing terms beginning with the letter Q are:

• Quartering Sea : Waves that are coming from the side of a boat at a 45-degree angle
• Quarterdeck : The area of a sailboat located at the aft (rear) of the main deck, traditionally reserved for the ship's officers on larger boats
• Quartermaster : A crew member responsible for steering the sailboat, and also sometimes responsible for navigation. They are most commonly found on large sailboats and ships
• Quay : A man-made structure built alongside a body of water to provide a place for boats to tie up and load or unload cargo
• Quicksilver : An older term for Mercury, it was used to refer to a liquid in a barometer or thermometer
• Quartering : When a boat is sailing at an angle to the wind, with the wind blowing from the side
• Quartering Wind : A wind that is blowing on the side of the boat
• Quilting : A technique used to make a piece of clothing or sail that involves stitching together multiple layers of material
• Quoins : Blocks of wood or metal used to adjust the tension on a sail
• Quick Release : a device that allows you to quickly release a rope or line under load

The sailing terms beginning with the letter R are:

• Rudder : A flat underwater structure located at the stern of a boat. It is used to steer the boat
• Reef : To reduce the size of a sail by rolling or folding a portion of it and fastening it in place to reduce the sail's wind-catching surface
• Rope : a strong cord made of natural or synthetic fibers, used for a variety of purposes on a boat, including hoisting sails, tying up to a dock, and securing gear
• Running Lights : Lights that are required by international regulations to be displayed on boats and ships in order to indicate the vessel's position and direction of travel at night
• Rigging : The ropes, cables, and chains that are used to support the mast and control the sails of a boat
• Rode : The anchor line and chain used to secure a boat to the sea floor
• Rocker : The curvature of a boat's bottom from the centerline to the keel
• Roller Furling : A system for rolling up a sail and securing it to the mast or boom when not in use
• Roller Reefing : A method of reefing a sail in which the sail is rolled around a foil on the mast or boom
• Right Of Way : The responsibility of a vessel to give way to other vessels as per the international regulations for preventing collisions at sea (COLREGS)

The sailing terms beginning with the letter S are:

• Safe Harbor : A safe harbor is considered a symbol of good luck for sailors
• Sheet : A rope used to control the position of a sail
• Shroud : A rope or cable that runs from the mast to the side of the boat to provide support for the mast
• Starboard : The right side of the boat when facing forward
• Stern : The rear end of the boat
• Starboard Tack : Sailing with the wind coming from the right side of the boat
• Steward/Stewardess : A crew member responsible for the provisioning, cleaning, and maintenance of the sailboat's interior
• Spinnaker : A large, triangular sail used when sailing downwind
• Sail : A sheet of fabric that is attached to a mast and used to propel a boat through the wind
• Skipper : The person in charge of a sailboat
• Spar : A wooden or metal pole that supports a sail
• Shackle : A U-shaped metal fastener with a pin that is used to connect ropes or cables to the boat
• Scull : A method of steering a boat by using a oar or paddle at the stern of the boat
• Shrouds : A set of ropes or cables that run from the top of the mast to the sides of the boat to provide support for the mast
• Scuttlebutt : A nautical term for gossip or rumors
• Sea Room : The amount of space around a boat that is necessary to safely navigate
• Sea State : The condition of the surface of a body of water, often used to describe the roughness of the water during bad weather
• Sextant : An instrument used for navigation at sea, used to measure the angle between two visible objects, typically the horizon and a celestial object, in order to determine the ship's position
• Spinnaker : A spinnaker is a sail designed specifically for sailing off the wind on courses between a reach (wind at 90° to the course) to downwind (course in the same direction as the wind)
• Storm Sail : A sail that is designed for use in heavy weather
• Steering Compass : A compass mounted on or near the helm of a boat that is used to help the helmsman steer the boat
• Shipshape : A term used to describe a boat that is well-maintained and in good condition
• Squall : A sudden, strong wind often accompanied by rain or snow
• Swell : Large ocean waves that are caused by distant storms or winds

The sailing terms beginning with the letter T are:

• Tack : The direction in which a sailboat is moving
• Topsail : A sail set above the main sail on a ship's mast
• Tiller : A handle or lever used to steer a boat
• Trim : The adjustment of a sail's angle to the wind to optimize the boat's speed and direction
• Tacking : The act of turning a sailboat into the wind in order to change direction
• Tender : A small boat used to transport people or goods to and from a larger boat
• Tumblehome : The inward slope of a sailboat's sides above the waterline
• Topsides : The upper side of a ship's hull above the waterline
• Tugboat : A powerful boat used to tow or move other boats or ships
• Thwart : A seat that runs across a boat, typically used in a canoe or rowboat
• Tarpaulin : A heavy-duty waterproof sheet used to cover and protect equipment on a boat
• Telltale : A small flag or ribbon used to indicate the direction of the wind
• Topsheets : The sheets that control the uppermost sails of a square-rigged vessel
• Towing : The act of pulling a boat or ship behind another using a line or cable
• Toe Rail : A narrow rail along the edge of the deck used to prevent water from running onto the deck
• Trough : An elongated area of low pressure often associated with stormy weather
• Thunder Squall : A sudden, severe thunderstorm with high winds and heavy precipitation

The sailing terms beginning with the letter U are:

• Underway : Describes a boat that is not anchored or aground
• Upwind : Sailing towards the direction from which the wind is blowing
• Unfurl : To release and extend a sail from a furled position
• Uphaul : A rope or line used to raise a sail
• Underwater Gear : Equipment or gear used for activities under the water surface, such as diving gear or fishing gear
• Upstream : Against the direction of a current or flow
• Underbody : The bottom of a boat or ship's hull
• Underwater Lights : Lights used to illuminate the underwater area around a boat
• Underwater Soundings : Measurements taken to determine the depth of water beneath a boat
• Unstep : To remove a mast from a boat
• Unbend : To remove a sail from a boat or to remove a rope from a cleat or winch
• Unmoor : To release a boat from its moorings

The sailing terms beginning with the letter V are:

• Veer : To change the direction of the wind
• VHF Radio : A radio used for communication on boats and ships, operating on very high frequency
• Vang : A rope or lever used to control the angle of a sail
• Ventilator : A device used to allow air to flow into a boat
• Vane : A device used to determine wind direction
• Velocity : The speed at which a boat or ship is moving
• Valve : A device used to control the flow of fluids or gases
• VHF Antenna : A type of antenna that is used for VHF radios
• Velocimeter : An instrument used to measure the speed of a boat through the water.
• Visibility : The maximum distance at which an object can be seen
• Vent : A hole or opening on the sailboat that allows air or gases to escape

The sailing terms beginning with the letter W are:

• Wake : The trail of water left behind a sailboat as it moves
• Waterline : The line where the water meets the side of a boat or ship
• Windward : The direction from which the wind is blowing
• Watertight : Describes a boat that is designed to prevent water from entering
• Wharf : A platform or dock used for loading and unloading boats and ships
• Warps : Ropes or lines used to secure a boat or ship to a dock or buoy
• Windlass : A mechanical device used to raise or lower an anchor
• Watertight Bulkhead : A partition that is designed to prevent water from penetrating the interior of a boat or ship
• Watertight Door : A door that is designed to prevent water from penetrating the interior of a boat
• Whipping : A method of securing the end of a rope to prevent fraying
• Watertight Hatch : A hatch that is designed to prevent water from penetrating the interior of a boat or ship
• Waterspout : A type of tornado that forms over water
• Wench : A mechanical device used for hauling or lifting heavy loads on a boat

The sailing terms beginning with the letter X are:

• X-Yachts : A brand of luxury performance sailing yachts
• X-Bow : A type of bow design that features a sharp, vertical bow that is designed to reduce slamming in heavy seas

The sailing terms beginning with the letter Y are:

• Yard : A spar that extends horizontally from the mast of a sailboat, used to support and shape the sails
• Yaw : When a boat deviates from its course, typically caused by wind, waves, or steering issues

The sailing terms beginning with the letter Z are:

• Zephyr : A light breeze often used to refer to a gentle wind in sailing terms
• Zigzag : A course that changes direction frequently, often used to avoid obstacles or to make progress in difficult wind conditions
• Zone of Confidence : The area around a sailboat where the skipper is confident of his/her ability to handle the sailing vessel safely

Frequently Asked Questions About Sailing Terminology

Below are the most commonly asked questions about sailing terminology.

What Are The Most Popular Sailing Terms?

The most popular sailing terms are bow, port, stern, starboard, helm, keel, rigging, rudder, sails, deck, below deck, above deck, inboard, outboard, jib, anchor, skipper, aft, captain, rope, berths, knot, tack, mast, boom, mainsail, heading, furling, visibility, buoy, batten, main sheet, dock, offshore, inshore, nautical mile, man overboard, personal flotation device, reef, life jackets, hull and mooring.

What Are The Least Popular Sailing Terms?

The least popular sailing terms are iron mike, irons, toe rail, zephyr, scuttlebutt, rocker, luffing, shipshape, sea room, zigzag, quartering sea, beat, piling, and quilting.

What Are Sailing Terms For Wind?

Sailing terms for wind are windward, leeward, close-hauled, beam reach, running, tacking, jibing, true wind, apparent wind, fetch, and beaufort scale.

What Are Sailing Terms For Good Luck?

Sailing terms for good luck are bon voyage, all hands on deck, fair winds and following seas, godspeed and safe harbor.

What Are Sailing Terms For The Crew?

Sailing terms that pertain to the crew include captain, first mate, navigator, bosun, deckhand, quartermaster, able seamen, steward/stewardess, engineer and cook.

What Are Sailing Terms For Sails?

Sailing terms for sails are mainsail, jib, genoa, spinnaker, boom, halyard, sheet, clew, tack, reef, leach, and luff.

What Are Sailing Terms For Bad Weather & Storms?

Sailing terms for bad weather and storms are squall, gale, storm, hurricane, trough, front, sea state, swell, thunder squall and fetch.

What Are Sailing Terms For Beginners?

Sailing terms for beginners are hull, mast, sail, boom, rudder, keel, anchor, port, starboard, bow, captain, skipper, stern, deck, cabin, cleat and tack.

What Are Sailing Terms For Parts Of The Sailboat?

Sailing terms for parts of the sailboat are hull, mast, boom, rigging, standing rigging, running rigging, bow, stern, deck, cabin, bow pulpit, stern pulpit, gunwale, keel, rudder, tiller, winch, cleat, chocks and chain plates.

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.

• Paddle Board

A to Z of Nautical Terms: A Complete Glossary of Boat Terminology

Are you a new boat owner? Whether you bought a jet ski or a 40-foot cabin cruiser, you’re going to need to understand the lingo while you’re out on the water. Here’s a glossary of basic nautical terms to have you sounding like a sailor.

Toward the stern of the vessel.

A sail position with the wind striking on its leeward side.

Around or near the stern of the vessel.

At a right-angle to the boat’s center-line.

Lashing the helm to the leeward side to ride out bad weather without the sails set.

The center of the deck of the vessel between the fore-and-aft.

Automatic Identification System.

Apparent Wind

The speed and direction of the wind combined with the boat’s movement and the true wind speed and direction.

To look behind the boat while driving in reverse.

Automatic Radar Plotting Aid.

Athwartships

At a right-angle to the aft-and-fore line of the vessel.

The act of measuring the angular distance on the horizon circle in a clockwise method, typically between a heavenly body and an observer.

When the wind starts to shift in an anti-clockwise direction.

Back a sail

Sheeting the sail to the windward direction, so the wind fills the sail on the leeward side.

The stay supports the aft from the mast, preventing its forward movement.

Baggywrinkle

The teased-out plaited rope wound around the stays or shrouds preventing chaffing.

Iron or lead weights are fixed in a low-access area of the vessel or on the keel to stabilize the boat.

A flexible and lightweight strip feeds into the sail leech’s batten pocket, supporting the roach.

Ballast Keel

A ballast bolted to the keel, increasing the vessel’s stability to prevent capsizing.

The widest point of the vessel or a traverse member supporting the deck. On the beam, objects are at a right-angle to the center-line.

Taking the action of steering the vessel away from the wind.

To tag a zig-zagging approach into the wind or close-hauling with alternate tacks.

The object’s direction from the observer measured in magnetic or true degrees.

To fasten the rope around the cleat using a figure-8 knot.

Securing the sail to the spar before hoisting it or connecting two ropes using a knot.

A sleeping quarters on a boat or a slip occupied by a vessel in a marina or harbor.

The loop or bend in a knot.

The round, lower part of the hull where the water collects.

The pulley fixed inside a plastic or wooden casing with a rope running around a sheave and changing to pulling direction.

Boot-Topping

The narrow-colored stripe is painted between the topside enamel and bottom paint.

The heeling action of the boat when it slews to the broadside while running downwind. Abroach usually occurs in heavy seas.

Broad Reach

The point of sailing the vessel between a run and the beam reach with the wind blowing over the quarter.

The partitioning wall in the vessel athwartship.

A measurement of distance equal to 0.1-sea mile, 185-meters, or 200-yards.

Center-Line

The center of the vessel along the aft-to-fore line.

Center-Board

A board lowers through a slot on the keel for reducing leeway.

The fitting slipping over the boom like a claw. It attaches to the main sheet after you finish reefing the sail.

Chart Datum

The reference level on the charts below which the low tide level. The sounding features below the chart datum. The datum level varies depending on country and area.

The metal, wooden, or plastic fitting used to secure ropes.

Close-Hauled

The skill of sailing close to the wind, also known as beating.

The lower, aft corner of the sail where the leech and foot meet.

Close Reach

The point where you’re sailing between the beam reach and the close-hauled or when the wind blows toward the forward of the beam.

The direction that you steer the vessel in degrees. Mariners can use true or magnetic readings or use a compass to plot the course.

Close-Winded

The act of sailing a boat close to the wind.

The rope loop at either end of the line reef points or an eye in a sail.

The difference between the direction indicated by the magnetic meridian and the compass needle, caused by carrying metal objects aboard the vessel.

Sailing with the wind blowing to the aft, in line with the center-line of the vessel.

Displacement

The displacement hull design displaces boat weight in the water and is only supported by its buoyancy.

The weight of the water displaced by the vessel is equal to the vessel’s weight.

The rope used to pull down the spar or sail.

To float the vessel with the wind or current. Or the distance covered by the boat while drifting in the current, measured in time.

The distance between the lowest point on the keel and the center-line of the vessel measured as a vertical distance.

The sea anchor thrown over the stern of a life raft or boat or to reduce drift.

Digital Selective Calling (a function on Marine radios ).

A retractable keel drawn into the vessel’s hull.

Emergency Position Indication Radio Beacon.

Estimated Position.

Estimated Time of Departure.

Estimated Time of Arrival.

The fitting adjusting the feeding line allows you to change the direction of the lead line.

The raised border on cabin tables, chart tables, preventing objects from falling off the surface.

Measurement of water depth and rope lengths.

• 1 Fathom = 6-feet = 1.83-meters.

The vessel positioning plotted by two or more positioning lines.

The vertical distance between the top of the deck and the waterline.

The closest stay running between the masthead and stemhead, hankering the mainsail.

A large-size headsail is available in various sizes, overlapping the mainsail before hoisting in fresh to light winds on all sailing points.

Two concentric rings pivot at right-angles to keep objects horizontal despite the swaying motion of the boat.

Global Navigation Satellite System.

Global Maritime Distress and Safety System.

To change tack by turning the boat into the eye of the wind.

Booming out the headsail in a windward position using the whisker pole to hold it on the opposite side of the mainsail.

The fitting anchoring the mast to the boom, allowing free movement in all directions.

This metal rail surrounds the boat’s edges, allowing easy gripping to prevent falling overboard.

Turning the stern through the wind to change from one tack to another.

The spinnaker guy controls the steadying rope for the spar through the aft-fore position of the spinnaker pole. The foreguy keeps the spinnaker pole in the forward position.

Global Positioning System.

The rope hoisting the lower sails.

Highest Astronomical Tide.

The fitting for attaching the sail’s luff to a stay.

The deck opening provides the crew with access to the berth or cabin interior.

The streamlined surround of a forestay featuring the groove allows for the sliding attachment of the luff sides of the headsail.

Head-to-Wind

When the bow of the vessel points into the direction of the wind.

The forward motion of the vessel through the water.

The toilet.

The action of backing the jib and lashing the tiller to the leeward side in rough weather conditions. The heave-to encourages the vessel to reduce headway and lie quietly.

When the vessel exaggeratedly leans to one side.

International Maritime Organization.

International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.

International Telecommunication Union

The lines on weather maps joining places with equal atmospheric pressure.

The temporary device for replacing damaged or lost gear.

The line running from aft-to-fore on both sides of the vessel. The jackstays allow for the clipping attachment of safety harnesses to prevent being lost at sea when falling overboard.

A secondary, smaller, lightweight anchor.

A dual-masted sailboat featuring a mizzen mast that’s slightly smaller than its mainmast, with a stepped forward position of the rudder post/stock.

The center-line of the vessel features the attachment of the ballast keel, allowing for the lowering of the center-board.

Kicking Strap

The line for pulling down the boom or keeping it in the horizontal position when on a run or reach.

A short length of line attached to an important object that you don’t want to lose, such as the jet ski key. The lanyard can connect to your wrist or lifejacket.

The aft edge of the triangular sail. Both side-edges of a square sail.

Lowest Astronomical Tide.

The shore on which the wind is blowing.

The natural tendency of vessels to bear away from the direction of the wind.

Moving in a direction away from the wind. The direction in which the wind is blowing.

The vessel’s leaning to one side due to improper distribution of weight in the boat’s hull.

The leading edge of the sail. Luffing up is turning the head of the boat into the wind.

The sideways motion off course resulting from the wind blowing on one side of the hull and sails.

The instrument for measuring the distance and speed of a boat traveling through the water. It is also the act of recording the details of a voyage in a logbook.

Marinized engine

A car engine or motorbike motor adapted for use in watercraft.

Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

The keel socket locating the base of the mast.

Measured Mile

The distance marked on charts measures one nautical mile between islands at sea or onshore ranges.

The short after-mast on the yawl or ketch.

This imaginary longitudinal line circling the earth, passing through both poles, cutting at right-angles through the equator.

Mean Low Water Neaps.

Mean High Water Neaps.

Mean High Water Springs.

Mean Low Water Springs.

Maritime Mobile Service Identity.

The rope used for pulling out the sail’s foot.

Overall Length (LOA)

The extreme length of the vessel. The measurement from the aftmost point of the stern to the foremost points of the bow. This measurement excludes the self-steering gear, bowsprit, etc.

An emergency call requesting immediate assistance.

The bowline on a tender or dinghy for towing or making fast.

To gradually let out the rope.

The left-hand side of the vessel when looking forward.

Point of Sailing

The angles of the wind allowing for the sailing of the boat. Or the boat’s course relative to its direction and the direction of the wind.

Your vessel is on its port track when the wind is striking the boat’s port side first, and the mainsail is out to the starboard side.

Line of Position/Position Line

The line on charts shows the bearing of the vessel and the position where the boat mist lie. Or two positional lines providing a location fix.

The steel guard rail fitted to the bow to provide additional safety for the crew when working around the boat’s edge.

The steel guard rail fitted around the stern of the boat to prevent the crew from falling overboard.

The section of the vessel midway between the beam and the stern.

The difference in water levels between the high and low tides is the range of tides. Or the distance at which you can see the light.

The act of reducing the sail surface area through folding or rolling additional materials onto the forestay or boom.

Reefing Pennant

The sturdy line allowing you to pull down the leech cringle or luff to the boom while reefing.

When sailing with the wind blowing onto the beam, with all sailing points between close-hauled and running.

Riding Sail

The small sail you hoist to maintain the steerage way during stormy weather.

The imaginary line cuts through all meridians at the same angle. Or the course of the vessel moving in a fixed direction.

Rigging Screw

The deck fitting allowing for tensioning of the standing rigging.

The act of sailing with the wind to the aft of the vessel and with the sails eased into the wide-out, full position.

The curve in a leech sail extending beyond the direct line formed from clew to head.

Running Rigging

All moving lines like halyards and sheets used for trimming and setting sails.

Search and Rescue.

A vessel with two or more masts and the mainmast featured in the aftermost position.

Search and Rescue Transponder.

The toe-rail holes allowing water to drain off the deck.

The room in which the vessel can maneuver clear of submerged dangers.

The shut-off valve for the underwater outlet or inlet passing through the vessel’s hull.

This is French for “radio silence.” You’ll use it when reporting a distress call or incident at sea.

The act of hoisting a sail. Or how the sails fit or the direction of a tidal stream or current.

A procedure word for identifying safety calls.

A steel link featuring a removable bolt crossing the open end. The shackle comes in various designs, from “S” to “U” shapes and more.

The cables or ropes typically fund in pairs, leading from the mast to the chainplates at the deck level. These shrouds prevent the mast from falling to the side, and it’s part of your standing rigging.

The rope attaching to the boom to the sail’s clew allows for the trimming and control over the sail.

Skin Fitting

A through-hull fitting featuring a hole in its skin allows for air and water passing. The seacock is the accessory used for sealing the cavity when not in use.

A boat with a single-masted design for one headsail and one mainsail.

The general term for any metal or wooden pole on board a boat. The pole gives shape to the sails.

Safety of Life at Sea.

Speed Over the Ground

A lightweight, large balloon-shaped sail for running or reacting.

The horizontal struts attach to the mast and extend to the shrouds to assist with supporting the mast.

The act of joining wires or ropes using a weaving process interlacing the fibers in the cable or rope.

The sail will stall if the airflow over the sail surface breaks up, causing the vessel to lose its momentum.

Standing Part

The part of the line you don’t use when making a knot. Or the part of a rope you use to tie around the knot.

The metal post bolted to the deck in an upright position to support the guard railing.

Standing Rigging

The stays and shrouds provide permanent support to the mast.

Starboard Tack

The vessel is on the starboard tack when the boom is out to post, and the wind strikes the boat’s starboard side.

The right-hand side of the vessel when looking forward.

The rope or wire supports the mast in the fore-and-aft direction. It is a part of the standing rigging for your boat.

The sternward movement of the vessel towards the backward direction.

Steerage Way

The vessel has steerage when it reaches sufficient speed, allowing for steering or answering the helm.

The loop of rope or wire attaches the spar to the block to make a sling.

The railing around the vessel’s stern prevents the crew from falling overboard. Modern yachts do not have the elegant wooden railing of older models. Instead, they feature tubular steel or aluminum railings, called Pushpits.

Telegraph Buoy

The buoy marks the position of a submerged cable.

To pull on the end of the rope or cable, wound around a winch.

The compass mounted over the captain’s berth, allowing for the easy reference to what’s going on in the vessel’s helm.

The metal fitting forming eyes at the end of cables, wires, or ropes.

A description for any small boat, usually inflatable models. These boats will take supplies and people between a larger vessel and the shore.

Thermal Wind

The wind occurring from the difference in the heating of the sea and the land by the sun. The sun heats the land faster than the sea, resulting in the onshore wind from the sea replacing the air rising over the land, causing the “sea breeze” phenomenon.

Thumb Cleat

A small cleat featuring a single horn.

The wooden pegs featuring vertical pairs in the gunwale for constraining the oars for rowing.

Topping Lift

The rope linking the mast to the boom end. It supports the boom, allowing for its lowering and raising.

The progress on the vessel’s journey over the ocean. The trajectory line of the boat.

The sides of the hull between the waterline and the deck.

The netting stretching across the hulls of a catamaran.

A watch period or watch duty at the helm of the vessel.

Traverse beams forming part of the stern and fixed to the sternpost of a wooden ship.

Tricolor Lamp

A lamp displaying red in proper port sectors, green in the starboard sectors, and white astern. Some authorities permit the tri-color light on smaller boats instead of conventional stern and bow lights.

Turk’s Head

A decorative knot featuring variable numbers of interwoven strands that form a closed loop.

The direction and velocity of wind measured by stationary observers. Apparent wind is wind experienced by moving objects.

Sturdy steel fittings used for attaching standing rigging to the spar or mast.

The low, forward corner of the sail. Or the action of turning the boat through the wind to get it to blow on the other side of the sails.

Sailing close-hauled to work windward on an alternate course. The wind is on one side then the other.

The low strip of steel, wood, or strapping running along the edge of the deck. You’ll use it in combination with the hand railing to hold your feet to the deck to prevent falling overboard.

The rise and fall of the ocean are caused by the moon’s gravitational effect on the earth and the ocean.

The line moving from the mast had to the spar or the boom used in raising it.

To adjust the sail angle using sheets to achieve optimal efficiency from the sail. Or it describes the action of adjusting the load, influencing the fore-and-aft angle at which it floats.

The course of the boat making good on its travel plan. A fitting of on the boom or mast to the slide on the sail fit. The fitting along which the traveler runs for altering the sheet tension.

The speed and direction of the wind when anchored, stationary on the water, or land.

Turn Buckle

The apparatus used for tightening the standing rigging on the vessel.

A line used in raising something like a spinnaker pole vertically.

The vessel is underway when it releases it fastening to shore when it is not aground or at anchor.

See kicking strap.

The wind will veer when shifting in a clockwise direction. Veering can also mean paying out anchor rope or cable in a controlled manner.

Velocity Made Good

Very High Frequency

The disturbed water left behind (astern) the boat as it moves forward in the water, usually caused by a motor.

Weather Helm

The tendency of the vessel to turn into the wind.

The distance between the radio waves.

Weather Side

The side of the vessel to which the wind is blowing.

World Geodetic Survey of 1984 (most common chart datum).

A mechanical device featuring a cable or line attached to a motor. The winch pulls the boat aboard the trailer and helps with the vessel’s launch from the trailer. The winch also gives more pulling power to withdrawing nets or other apparatus from the water.

Whisker Pole

A lightweight pole used for holding the clew out of the headsail when on a run.

The winch features a vertical handle and a horizontal shaft used in hauling up the anchor chain.

The parts of the vessel that increase the drag on the boat. Examples would be the spars, rigging, etc.

The direction from which the wind blows toward the wind (the opposite way to leeward).

Cross Track Error. The perpendicular distance between two waypoints off track.

A dual-masted vessel with its mizzen stepped aft of its rudder post/stock.

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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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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Glossary of Nautical Terms: The Ultimate Guide to 500+ Boating and Sailing Terms

Navigating the world of boating and sailing requires a good understanding of many nautical terms. From the anatomy of a boat to the mechanics of sailing, there are many terms that any boater or sailor needs to know.

Knowing some basic nautical terms is vital for safety, effective communication, and mastering the art of boating and sailing, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice.

In this article, we’ve gathered 500+ nautical terms to cover general boating and sailing jargon. Enhance your knowledge and sail with confidence!

Let’s dive into the fascinating language of boating!

Nautical terms list

A b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z.

Aback – when the wind strikes the sails from the opposite side of the vessel than intended (lee side).

Abaft – toward the stern or rear of the boat.

Abaft the beam – a point on the boat’s side or stern that is behind a line perpendicular to the beam, which is the widest part of the boat.

Abeam – at right angles to the centerline of a boat.

Aboard – on or in a boat.

Abreast – side by side.

Adrift – a boat that is floating without any propulsion or anchor holding it in place.

Aft – toward the back of the ship (stern).

Aground – a boat that has run aground or is stuck on a reef or sandbar.

Ahead – forward of the ship, in forward direction.

Ahoy – a nautical greeting used to call or draw attention.

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Aids to Navigation – navigational tools such as lighthouses, buoys, and beacons, that supplement natural landmarks, to help boats navigate safely.

AIS – Automatic Identification System.

Alee – side of the boat that is sheltered from the wind, opposite to windward.

Aloft – overhead, above the deck of the boat. .

Amidship – at or near the middle part of the boat.

Anchor – a heavy object used to grip to the ground underwater and keep a boat in place.

Anchorage   – a suitable place in a body of water where boats can anchor or moor.

Apparent wind – The perceived wind speed and direction experienced the crew on a moving boat.

ARPA – Automatic Radar Plotting Aid.

Astern – behind or towards the rear of a boat. Opposite to ahead.

Athwartships – perpendicular to the centerline of a ship or boat.

Aweigh – the position of an anchor when it is being lifted from the seabed.

Azimuth – horizontal angle between a fixed reference point and the direction or bearing of an object. Typically measured in degrees and clockwise direction.

Back a sail – process of reversing the direction of a sail in order to slow down or stop a boat.

Backstay – a wire or rope that supports the mast from the stern of the boat and prevents its forward movement.

Backwinded – when the wind hits a sail on the opposite side to which it was intended to be set.

Baggywrinkle – protective covering that is placed on the rigging of a sailing vessel to prevent wear and tear from the sails.

Bail – to remove water from a boat using a bucket or other container.

Bailers – devices used for removing water from a boat.

Bale – a large bundle or package of goods or supplies that are tightly bound together for storage or transportation on a boat.

Ballast – a heavy material that is placed in the hull of a ship or boat to increase its stability and control its buoyancy.

Ballast keel – type of keel designed to provide ballast to a sailing vessel, typically a sailboat or yacht.

Bar – a shallow area of water that forms at the entrance or exit of a harbor or river.

Barber hauler – a line or wire attached to the jib or spinnaker sheet used to adjust its angle.

Batten – a thin, flat piece of wood or metal used to reinforce a sail.

Batten down – to secure hatches and other openings on a boat to prevent water from entering.

Beam – the widest part of a boat, usually in the middle.

Beam reach – a point of sail where the wind is blowing perpendicular to the side of the sailboat.

Bear away /  Bear off – to steer the boat away from the wind.

Bearing – compass direction of an object relative to the boat’s position and expressed in degrees from true or magnetic north.

Beat – to sail upwind by tacking back and forth (zigzag) at an angle to the wind.

Belay – to secure a rope or line to a cleat or other fitting to prevent it from running out.

Below – lower deck or level of a boat.

Bend – to tie or fasten a rope or line to an object, such as a sail or anchor, using a knot or hitch.

Berth – (1) a place in a harbor where a boat can be docked or moored. (2) a bed or sleeping area on a boat.

Bight – bend or loop in a rope.

Bilge – the lowest part of a boat’s hull where water that enters the boat collects.

Binnacle – a case that holds a boat’s compass.

Bitter end – the end or final part of a line or chain.

Blanketing – a tactical sailing maneuver where one boat blocks the wind from reaching another boat to slowing it down.

Block – a pulley used to change the direction or mechanical advantage of a rope.

Bluewater sailing – to sail on the open ocean as opposed to coastal or lake sailing.

Boat – a craft or vessel designed to float on water and typically propelled by oars, sails, or an engine. Can be used for transportation, recreation, or commercial purposes.

Boat hook – device used for reaching or pulling objects in the water, or for pushing off from docks or other boats.

Boatswain – (pronounced “bosun”) a crew member responsible for the maintenance of the boat and its equipment.

Bobstay – supporting wire stay that runs from the bow of a boat to the end of the bowsprit, helping to hold it steady and secure.

Bollard – a short, thick post used for securing ropes or cables on a ship or dock.

Bolt Rope – a rope sewn onto the edge of a sail, to attach the sail to the rigging of the boat.

Boom – horizontal spar that extends from the mast of a sailboat and holds the foot of the sail. 

Boom Crutch – a device used to hold the boom up and in place when the sail is not in use, usually while the boat is anchored or moored.  The crutch is stowed when the boat is sailing.

Boom vang – a device on a sailboat that helps control the shape and tension of the mainsail by applying downward force to the boom. Helps to control the sail’s twist, and keep the boom from lifting.

Boot stripe – painted stripe on the hull of a boat that runs the length of the boat at or near the waterline.

Boot tope – a boot stripe at the boat’s designed waterline.

Bow – the front or forward section of the boat.

Bowline – (1) a docking line at the bow or forward part of the boat.(2) knot used to create a fixed loop at the end of a line that will not slip or come undone under load.

Bow thruster – a device used to maneuver a boat in tight spaces.

Bowsprit – a spar extending forward from a ship’s bow, primarily used to anchor the forestay for the jib or other headsails.

Breast line – a dock line going perpendicular from the centerline of the boat to the dock. Used to temporarily hold a boat close to the dock .

Bridge – the area of a ship from which it is navigated and controlled.

Bridle – line or wire attached to the boat at both ends and used to distribute the load. 

Brightwork – varnished or polished surfaces such as wood or metal on a boat.

Broach – when a boat suddenly turns broadside to the wind and waves, causing it to heel over excessively and potentially leading to a loss of control.

Broad reach – point of sail where the wind is coming from behind the boat but not directly downwind.

Bulkhead – a dividing wall or partition separating different compartments within a boat.

Bullseye – a block with one or more holes through the center used for leading lines, halyards, or sheets.

Bulwark – vertical extension of the boat’s hull that increases the height of the sides and helps to prevent water from coming on board and to keep the crew in.

Bunk – narrow bed often built into the wall or arranged in tiers to maximize space.

Buoy – a floating device used as a navigational aid or to mark the location of hazards or obstructions.

Burdened vessel – a vessel that, according to navigational rules must give way to a “privileged vessel”. It is more commonly called a “give-way” vessel.

Cabin – an enclosed area on a boat used for living quarters or storage.

Cabin sole – the floor or deck of the cabin on a boat.

Cable – (1) Heavy chain or rope attached to an anchor. (2) A unit of length equal to 120 fathoms or 720 feet (219 meters) in US customary units (USCS).

Can – a type of navigational buoy.

Canvas – material used for sails in the early days. Still used for boat covers, dodgers, biminis, and other accessories.

Capsize – to turn over or flip a boat.

Capstan – a machine used to raise heavy objects such as anchors.

Cargo – goods or materials transported by ship or other means of transport.

Cast off – to untie a boat from a mooring or dock, or to release a line from a cleat or bollard.

Catamaran – a boat with two parallel hulls.

Catboat – sailboat with a single sail mounted on a mast set well forward in the bow of the boat.

Celestial navigation – method of navigating a boat by using the positions of celestial bodies such as stars, the moon, and planets.

Centerboard – a board lowered through a slot in the centerline or keel to help reduce sideways drift. Also spelled centreboard.

Centerline – line at the center of a sailboat, from the bow (front) to the stern (rear), that divides the boat into port and starboard halves.

Chafe – damage to a line, or cable caused by rubbing against a rough surface or another object.

Chafe gear/ Chafing gear – gear used to prevent chafe. Chafe gear materials commonly include rubber, canvas, and leather.

Chain plates – metal plates that are part of the sailboat rigging system, and are used to attach shrouds and stays to the deck.

Chart – a map used for navigation.

Chart datum – level surface provided on a chart and used by boaters to determine water depth at any given point and to ensure safe passage.

Chine – intersection between the bottom and sides of a boat, that creates an angle or ridge along the hull. Not found in round bottom boats.

Chock – a fitting attached to the deck and used to guide anchor, mooring or dock lines.

Clear the decks – to remove or tidy up everything from a boat’s decks to prepare for action or to clean the ship.

Cleat – a fitting on a boat’s deck to which a rope or chain can be tied.

Clew – the lower aft corner of a triangular sail or the lower corners of a four-sided sail.

Close hauled – a point of sail where the boat is sailing as close to the wind as possible.

Close reach – point of sail where the wind is coming over the side of the boat at an angle between a beam reach and a close hauled.

Clove hitch – a type of knot used to attach a line to a post, pole, or another line.

Coaming – raised edge or border around an opening or a raised area on a boat to prevent water from entering the cockpit, hatch, or other openings.

Cockpit – the area of a boat or ship where the steering and navigation equipment is located.

Coil – to arrange a line in a series of circular loops, ready for stowing.

Comms – short for “communications”, referring to communication equipment and systems on a ship.

Companionway – a stairway or ladder leading from one deck to another.

Compass – a navigational instrument used to determine direction relative to the Earth’s magnetic poles.

Compound sheer – curvature of a boat’s deck from the bow to the stern, where the height of the deck changes both horizontally and vertically. .

Container ship – a type of ship designed to transport standardized shipping containers.

Course – the intended direction of a boat’s movement.

Coxswain – the person who steers and directs a small boat.

CQD – a distress signal used in radio communication before the adoption of SOS . A combination of two signals: “CQ” (“sécu“, from the French word sécurité) which means “alert message to all stations”, and “D” to indicate “distress”. See meaning of CQD .

Crane – a machine used for lifting and moving heavy objects on a boat.

Crew – the people who operate a boat.

Cringle – small eye or grommet in a sail used to attach lines or fittings.

Cuddy – small shelter on a boat used for storage or for the crew to take refuge from the weather.

Cunningham – a control line that is used to adjust the tension of the luff (forward edge) of a sail.

Current – the flow of water in a particular direction, often caused by tides or winds.

Cutter rig – a type of sailboat rigging that features two or more head sails, or foresails, mounted on the forestay.

D signal – a signal used in maritime communication to indicate “keep clear, I am maneuvering with difficulty.” It is represented by a yellow and blue square flag (Delta flag).

Daggerboard – similar to a centerboard, it slides up and down in a slot in the hull. Common on catamarans, trimarans, and some small monohull sailing boats.

Davit – a crane-like device used for lowering or raising small boats on a ship.

Dead ahead – Directly in front of the boat and its centerline.

Dead astern – Directly behind the boat or straight aft.

Dead reckoning (DR)/ Deduced reckoning – estimated position based on course, speed, and time from a known past position.

Dead run – when the wind is directly behind a sailboat. The boat is running directly downwind.

Deadhead – a floating log or piece of timber that poses a hazard to navigation.

Deadlight – a type of weather cover designed to fit into a larger opening in a boat’s hull or deck and used to close off an opening in bad weather.

Deck – the horizontal surface of a boat’s hull above the waterline.

Deck plate – a metal or plastic plate that covers an opening in the deck of a boat, providing access to equipment or storage spaces such as the bilge or fuel tank.

Depth sounder – a device used to measure the depth of water.

Deviation – difference between the true north and magnetic north which affects the accuracy of the compass. Is caused by a vessel’s own magnetic field or metallic objects.

Dinghy –  small boat often used as tenders to larger boats, to ferry people and supplies to and from shore.

Displacement – (1) the weight of the water displaced by the boat when afloat. (2) the weight of the boat itself, including all the equipment, fuel, and supplies on board.

Displacement hull – a hull design that displaces a volume of water equal to the boat’s weight for improved buoyancy.

Dock – a structure built along the shore or waterfront for boats to moor, tie up, or load and unload passengers or cargo.

Dodger – cover that extends above the cockpit of a boat to provide shelter from wind, spray, and rain.

Double ender – a type of boat or ship that has a pointed bow and stern, which are similar in shape and size, allowing for better stability and maneuverability.

Downhaul – a line used to apply downward tension or pull on a sail or other piece of equipment.

Downwind – when the wind is blowing from behind a vessel or in the same direction the boat is traveling. Sailing away from the wind.

Draft – the depth of a boat’s hull below the waterline.

Drift – distance and direction a vessel is carried off course due to external forces such as wind, waves, or current.

Drogue – sea anchor device that is attached to the boat by a line and deployed overboard to create drag and slow down drift.

Drop keel – a retractable keel that can be lowered and raised as needed.

Dry dock – a structure used for repairing, building, and maintaining boats out of the water.

DSC – Digital Selective Calling, a method of communication used in maritime radio systems.

Ease – to slacken or loosen.

Ebb – the flow of tidewater away from land, usually occurs between high and low tide.

EP – Estimated Position.

EPIRB – Emergency position indicating radio beacon, a device used to alert search and rescue services in case of an emergency.

ETA – Estimated Time of Arrival.

ETD – Estimated Time of Departure.

Fairlead – a fitting on a boat’s deck used to guide ropes or cables.

Fairway – a navigable channel or area of water.

Fall off – to steer a vessel away from the wind. Also known as Head Down.

Fathom – a unit of measurement equal to 6 feet (1.83m), used to measure water depth.

Fender – a cushioning device, placed between boats, or between a boat and a pier, to prevent damage.

Ferry – a boat or ship used to transport passengers and vehicles across a body of water.

Fiddle – a raised guard around the edge of a table, counter, or other flat surfaces to prevent objects from falling off.

Figure Eight Knot – a type of stopper knot, that looks like the number eight, and is used to prevent the end of a rope from passing through a retaining device such as a ring, grommet, or block.

Figurehead – a carved ornament mounted on the bow of a boat.

Fix – the vessel position determined by taking bearings or sightings on three or more objects or landmarks.

Flare – (1) a device used to signal for help or to mark the location of a person or object in the water. (2) the outward curve of a boat.

Fleet – a group of ships.

Float – a buoyant object used for marking channels or hazards in the water.

Flood – the incoming or rising tide. Opposite to ebb.

Flotsam – debris or wreckage from a ship that is floating on the surface of the water.

Fluke – the part of an anchor that digs into the seabed to hold the vessel in place.

Foghorn – a loud horn used to signal in foggy conditions.

Following sea – wave pattern approaching a vessel from astern, following the vessel’s direction of travel.

Force 8 – gale level winds with average speeds of 34 to 40 knots (39 to 46 mph) according to the Beaufort Wind Scale. Level 12 is a hurricane .

Fore – towards the front or bow of a ship.

Forecastle – Sometimes abbreviated fo’c’sle, the forward-most part of the ship, often used as the crew’s living quarters.

Foredeck   –  the boat’s deck at the bow or front of the vessel.

Foremast – the mast located nearest to the bow (front) on a boat with more than one mast. Usually the second tallest mast.

Forepeak   – small compartment at the forward end of a ship, below deck, and used for storage of equipment, sails, or anchors.

Foresail – sail located forward of the mast on a sailing vessel.

Forestay – a stay that supports the mast from the front of the boat.

Foretriangle – the triangular area of sail between the forestay, mast, and deck of a sailing vessel.

Forward – towards the front or bow of a boat.

Fouled – Fouled- entangled or obstructed.

Fractional rig – Fractional rig- sailing rig in which the forestay does not run to the top of the mast but instead attaches at a point below the top, or “fractional” point.

Freeboard – the vertical distance between the waterline and the main deck of a boat.

Furl – to roll up and secure a sail.

Gaff – a spar positioned diagonally across the mast and used to support and control the sail.

Galley – the ship’s kitchen or cooking area.

Gangway – a movable ramp or platform used for boarding or disembarking a boat.

Gasket – a rope used to secure a sail to a spar or mast. Term mainly used in square-rigged ships.

Gear – various pieces of equipment and supplies used to operate and maintain a boat, including sails, lines, winches, anchors , electronics, safety gear, etc.

Genoa – a type of headsail that is larger than the jib and overlaps the mainsail. It is said the sail originated in Genoa Italy, hence its name.

Gimbals – a device used to keep a compass or other instrument level and stable.

Give – a vessel that requires taking action and keeping clear of the Stand-on vessel.

GMDSS – Global Maritime Distress and Safety System.

GMT – Greenwich Meridian Time. Became Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) in 1972.

GNSS – Global Navigation Satellite System.

Go about – to turn the boat through the wind during the tack.

Going to weather – sailing against wind and seas.

Gooseneck – fitting that attaches the boom of a sailboat to the mast. Designed to allow the boom to pivot up and down and side to side.

GPS – Global Positioning System, a satellite-based navigation system used for determining location and navigation path.

Grab rails – cabin fittings for hand-holding and personal safety when moving around the boat.

Great Circles – method of defining the shortest distance between two points on the globe’s surface.

Grog – a mixture of rum and water served to sailors in the 18th century.

Ground tackle – equipment used to anchor a boat. Includes the anchor, anchor chain or rope, and any other equipment required for anchorage.

Grounding – when a boat runs aground on a shallow area or rocks.

Guard rail – also known as a lifeline, is a safety railing system that runs around the perimeter of a boat, to prevent crew and passengers from falling overboard.

Gunwale – the upper edge of a boat’s side.

Guy – a steadying line used to control the end of a spar.

Gybe – another term for jibe.

Half – a flag flown at a lowered position as a sign of mourning.

Halyard – a rope or line used for hoisting or lowering a sail.

Hanks – metal fittings or hooks used to attach a sail to a stay of a sailboat.

Hard alee – a command given on a sailing vessel to turn the helm and have the bow of the boat through the wind as quickly as possible.

Hard Chine – hard or abrupt intersection between the bottom and sides of a boat, that creates an angle or ridge along the hull. Not found in round bottom boats.

Hard over – to turn the steering wheel as fast as possible.

HAT – Highest Astronomical Tide.

Hatch – an opening in a boat’s deck used for access or ventilation.

Hawser – a large rope used for towing or mooring a ship.

Head – (1) the toilet or bathroom on a boat (2) the upper corner or end of a triangular sail.

Head Down – to steer a vessel away from the wind. Also known as Fall Off.

Head to Wind – when the bow of the boat points directly into the wind.

Header – when wind direction changes, causing the boat to head down.

Headfoil – streamlined rod surrounding the forestay, and used to furl and unfurl the headsail.

Heading – the direction in which a boat bow is pointed or aimed. Usually expressed as an angle in degrees relative to the north or another reference.

Headsail – sail located forward of the mast on a sailing vessel. See Foresail.

Headstay – a stay that supports the mast from the front of the boat. See Forestay.

Headway – forward motion or progress made by a vessel through the water. opposite to sternway.

Heave to – to stop a boat’s forward progress.

Heel – the lean of the boat to one side and caused by the winds force on the sails.

Helm – the steering apparatus of a boat, including the wheel or tiller .

Helmsman – crew member at the helm and responsible for steering the boat.

Helmsperson – person who steers the boat. See Helmsmans.

Hike – to lean out over the side of the boat to balance it.

Hike out – the practice of leaning over the windward side of a sailboat in order to keep it balanced and prevent it from tipping over.

Hiking stick – a device used to control the tiller from a certain distance.

Hitch – a knot used to attach a rope or line to an object, such as a post, ring, or hook.

Hoist – to raise something, usually a sail, up a mast or spar using halyards or other lines.

Hold – the interior space of a ship or vessel used for storing cargo or goods.

Hook – slang for anchor.

Hove to – see heave to.

Hull – the main body or frame of a boat.

Hull speed – the maximum speed at which a keelboat can travel through the water.

Icebreaker – a type of ship designed to navigate through ice-covered waters.

IMO – International Maritime Organisation.

In irons – when a sailboat heads directly into the wind, becomes stuck or stalled, and is unable to move forward or steer effectively.

Inboard – inside the hull of a boat, as opposed to outside or outboard.

IOR – International Offshore Rating.

IRPCS – International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.

Isobars – lines that connect points of equal atmospheric pressure on a weather map.

ITU – International Telecommunication Union.

Jack line – a length of webbing or wire that is secured to a boat’s deck, running fore and aft, that is used to attach a safety harness and tether to the boat.

Jackstay – a line or wire that runs between two points on a vessel to support or guide a load between those points.

Jacobs Ladder  – a rope ladder that is used to climb aboard a ship or to climb up to the crow’s nest of a mast.

Jetsam – goods or materials intentionally thrown overboard from a ship in distress to lighten the ship’s load. Different from flotsam, where items are accidentally lost and float at sea.

Jetty – a long structure that extends from the shore into a river or ocean.  Used as a platform for fishing or for docking boats. Typically made of concrete, stone, or other materials.

Jib – a triangular sail at the front of a boat.

Jibe – to turn a sailboat so the wind hits the sail from the opposite side by turning the boat’s stern through the wind. Also Gybe.

Jiffy reefing – a technique used to quickly reduce the sail area of a sail in high winds.

Jury – a temporary arrangement or makeshift repair used to replace damaged or lost gear.

Kedge – small, secondary anchor of a boat.

Keel – the centerline structure running along the bottom of a boat’s hull.

Keelson – a longitudinal beam or structure that runs along the bottom of a boat hull, parallel to the keel, typically found in larger vessels.

Ketch – a two-masted sailboat, with the main mast located forward and the smaller mizzen mast aft. 

Kicking strap – also known as a boom vang or simply a vang, is a line or mechanical device used to control the boom on a sailboat.

Knot – a unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour (1 knot = 1.15 miles per hour = 1.85 kilometers per hour).

Landfall – the first sighting or arrival at land after a voyage at sea.

Lanyard – a line used for securing or attaching equipment on a boat.

LAT – Lowest Astronomical Tide.

Latitude – a measure in degrees of a boat’s position north or south of the equator.

Launch – (1) to put a boat into the water from a dry dock or trailer (2) a small, open motorboat used for short trips to and from shore or ship.

Lazarette – small storage compartment on a boat, typically located aft and below the cockpit or deck.

Lazy jac k –  lines used to help control the mainsail of a sailboat when it is being lowered.

Lead – term used to indicate the direction in which a line runs.

Lee – the sheltered side of a boat, away from the wind.

Lee cloths – pieces of fabric or netting used to create a barrier along the side of a berth (sleeping area) to prevent the user to slide out due to boat movement.

Lee helm – condition where the boat tends to steer away from the wind.

Lee shore – a coast or shoreline located to the lee (downwind) of a boat. It is generally recommended to keep a safe distance from lee shores when navigating in windy or rough conditions.

Leech – the rear edge of a sail, typically the edge of the sail that is not attached to a mast, spar, or another rigging.

Leech Line – a line used to tighten the leech.

Leeward – the direction away from the wind. Opposite to Winward.

Leeway – the sideways drift of a boat caused by wind force or currents.

Life Jacket – A buoyancy aid that helps a person float and stay afloat in the water, reducing the risk of drowning. Also known as a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) .

Lifeline – a line or cable used to prevent crew members from falling overboard.

Lifesaving equipment – devices used to save lives in case of an emergency, such as lifeboats, life rafts, and life jackets .

Light – a navigational aid used to indicate the location of hazards or to guide ships into port.

Lighthouse – a tower or structure with a bright light used to guide ships at sea.

Line – a rope or cable used on a boat for various purposes, such as securing cargo or tying up to a dock.

List – the leaning or tilting of a boat to one side due to uneven weight distribution.

Log – (1) device used to measure a boat’s speed and distance traveled (2) a record of the details of a voyage. See logbook.

Logbook – a record of a boat’s activities, including its course, speed, and events.

Longitude – a measure, in degrees,  of a boat’s position east or west of the Prime Meridian.

Lubber’s line – reference line or mark on a boat’s compass that helps the user determine the boat’s heading or direction of travel.

Luff – the edge of a sail closest to the wind.

Mainsail (Main) – the largest and most important sail on a sailboat, is typically attached to the mast and boom.

Mainsheet – the line that controls the position and tension of the mainsail. It is typically attached to the aft end of the boom and runs aft to the cockpit.

Manning – the act of providing personnel to operate a ship.

Mariner – a person who navigates or operates a ship.

Marlinspike – a tool used for working with ropes and knots. Has a pointed end for separating strands, and a flattened end for splicing.

Mast – a tall vertical pole that supports the sails.

Mast step – fitting or structure on a sailboat that supports the bottom of the mast and attaches it to the hull.

Masthead rig – type of rig in which the forestay attaches to the mast at the very top of it, or masthead.

Mayday – distress signal used in radio communications to signal a life-threatening emergency on board.

MCA – Maritime and Coastguard Agency (UK).

Measured mile – one nautical mile, typically marked with buoys or other navigational aids, used to measure the speed and performance of a boat.

Meridian – a line of longitude that runs north-south and passes through both the North and South Poles.

MHWN – Mean High Water Neaps.

MHWS – Mean High Water Springs.

Midship – Approximately the central section of a boat, typically the widest part of the hull.

Mizzen – the aft-most mast on a ship.

MLWN – Mean Low Water Neaps.

MLWS – Mean Low Water Springs.

MMSI – Maritime Mobile Service Identity.

Mooring – the act of securing a boat to a dock or buoy.

Motor – when sails and motor are used simultaneously on a sailboat.

Nautical mile – a unit of distance used in navigation, equal to one minute of latitude. A nautical mile is slightly more than a standard mile. 1 nautical mile = 1.15 miles = 1.85 kilometers. 

Navigation – the process of planning and directing the course of a boat.

Navigation Rules – set of regulations that govern the safe navigation of vessels on the water, including rules for preventing collisions , signaling, and right of way.

Navigator – a person who plans and directs the course of a boat.

Nun – a navigation aid used to indicate the edge of a navigable channel or the location of a hazard.

Oar – a long, narrow paddle used to row a boat.

Offing – refers to the open sea, particularly a safe distance from the shore.

Old salt – experienced sailor who has spent a significant portion of their life at sea.

Onboard – on or in the ship.

Outboard – (1) away from the centerline of a boat  (2) a detachable engine mounted on the stern of a boat.

Outhaul – a line that controls the tension and position of the sail along the boom.

Overall length (OAL) – the maximum length of a vessel, measured from the outermost point at the bow to the outermost point at the stern, including any protrusions or extensions.

Overboard – over the side of the ship.

P Flag – also called Blue Peter flag,  is a nautical signal flag that indicates a ship is preparing to leave port. It is a blue flag with a white square in the center.

Paddle – a flat blade used for propelling a small boat through the water.

Painter – a rope or cable used to secure or tow a small boat to a larger ship or dock.

Pan Pan – radio call to request assistance from other vessels or authorities. Unlike Mayday, Pan-pan is used when there is no immediate danger to life or the vessel’s safety.

Pay out – to let out a rope or cable gradually. Opposite to paying out is “taking in” or “reeling in”.

Pedestal – column or base used to elevate and secure equipment, such as the steering wheel and controls, for easy access and stability.

Pennant – long, narrow, triangular flag that is typically used on boats and ships for signaling or identification purposes.

PFD – personal flotation device, also known as a life jacket.

Pier – raised structure that extends from the shore over the water and is used for docking  boats, as well as for recreational activities.

Piling – a vertical support used to anchor a dock or pier.

Pilot – a person who navigates a ship through difficult or unfamiliar waters.

Pitch – the angle of a ship’s hull relative to the horizontal plane.

Planing – when a boat rises up and glides over the surface of the water, rather than displacing water as a traditional boat would.

Point of sail – the direction that a sailing vessel is traveling relative to the wind, e.g. beam reach, broad reach, upwind, downwind, etc.

Polaris – a star located in the constellation Ursa Minor, commonly known as the North Star or Pole Star. Used for centuries as a navigational aid.

Port – the left side of a boat when facing forward.

Port tack – sailing with the wind coming from the port side of the boat, and the sail is set to the starboard side of the boat.

Preventer – a line used to prevent the boom from accidentally jibing (moving suddenly and dangerously from one side to the other).

Privileged vessel – vessel that has the right of way over other vessels in certain situations as defined by navigation rules.

Proa – a traditional outrigger canoe with a single sail and a long, narrow hull.

Propeller – a device used to propel a boat through the water.

Pulpit – safety railing located at the bow of a boat that helps prevent people from falling overboard.

Q flag – a yellow flag that is flown by boat to indicate that it is healthy and to request free pratique (permission to enter a port or receive officials from shore).

Quarter – the side of a ship between the stern and amidships.

Quay – pronounced as “key” or “kee.” Is a wharf used for loading and unloading cargo or passengers from ships.

Radar – a device that uses radio waves to detect the presence and location of objects, used for navigation and collision avoidance .

Ratchet – a mechanism that allows a rope to be tightened in one direction only.

Reach – point of sail where the wind is coming from the side of the boat, at an angle between a close-hauled course (where the boat is sailing as close to the wind as possible) and a run (where the wind is coming directly from behind the boat). The three types of reach are close reach, beam reach, and broad reach, depending on the angle of the wind relative to the boat.

Ready about – to signal to the crew that the boat is about to tack, or turn into the wind.

Reef – to reduce the size of a sail by folding or rolling a portion of it.

Reeling in –  to retrieve a fishing line or reel.

Rhumb line – a line that crosses all meridians of longitude at the same angle. Also called a loxodrome.

Rigging – the system of ropes, cables, and other devices used to support and control the sails of a boat.

Right of way – the privilege of a vessel to maintain its course over others based on established navigational rules. it is determined by the vessel type,  position, course, speed, and other factors.

Roach – the curved portion of the sail that extends beyond a straight line drawn between the head and clew.

Rocker – upward curvature of a boat’s keel to the bow and stern.

Rode – the line or chain attached to the anchor and used to hold the boat in place while at anchor.

Roller reefing – to shorten the sail area by wrapping a sail around a boom or forestay.

Rope – cordage or line used aboard a vessel, including halyards, sheets, dock lines, and anchor lines. In nautical terminology, Line is frequently used instead of rope.

Rudder – a flat plate or blade attached to the stern of a boat and used to steer it.

Run aground – to ground a boat on a shallow area or rocks.

Run/running – to sail with the wind aft or directly behind the boat, which is the most downwind point of sail.

Running lights – lights required to be displayed on a boat underway between sunset and sunrise. Consist of red and green sidelights and a white stern light .

Running rigging – the lines such as sheets or halyards used to adjust the position of the sails.

Sail – a piece of fabric attached to a mast or spar and used to capture the wind to propel a boat.

Sail trim – the adjustments made to the sails on a sailboat to optimize their performance in different wind and sea conditions.

Sampan – a flat-bottomed boat typically used in China and Southeast Asia for transportation and fishing.

Samson post – a vertical post or bitt located on the deck or hull of a ship used for securing mooring lines or tow lines.

SAR – Search and Rescue.

SART – Search and Rescue Transponder.

Sat Nav – short for “satellite navigation” refers to the use of GPS to determine a boat’s position and navigate from one location to another.

Schooner – a sailing ship with two or more masts and fore-and-aft sails on the mainmast.

Scope – the ratio between the length of an anchor rode and the water depth. A higher scope, such as 7:1 or 10:1, means that more rode is paid out and the anchor is more securely set in the bottom, providing greater holding power for the boat.

Scull – a method of propulsion in a small boat where a single oar is moved back and forth behind the boat, with the oar pivoting at the stern rather than the side of the boat.

Scupper – a hole or channel in a boat’s deck that allows water to drain off.

Scuttle – to intentionally sink a boat by creating holes in the hull or opening its seacocks to let water in. Also refers to a small hatch or opening in a ship’s deck or hull that is used for ventilation, drainage, or access to equipment.

Scuttlebutt – a drinking fountain on a boat, or gossip among sailors.

Sea anchor – a device used to slow down or stabilize a boat in heavy seas.

Sea chest – a compartment in the ship’s hull for pumping seawater.

Sea Cock – a valve fitted to a boat’s hull which allows water to enter or exit through a hose or pipe. Used for draining water from the bilge or for providing water to the engine or other onboard systems.

Sea level – the level of the ocean’s surface used as a reference point for measuring elevation.

Sea room – a safe distance or area available for a boat to maneuver and navigate safely in open waters without colliding with other vessels, obstacles or running aground.

Seafarer – a person who travels by sea, especially for work or adventure.

Seamanship – skills, knowledge, and practices for operating a boat, as well as maintaining and caring for it.

Seaworthy – a boat’s capability to withstand harsh conditions and challenges of the sea.

Sécurité   – term (french) used in marine radio communication to indicate a message that is about to be transmitted concerning the safety of navigation or important meteorological warnings.

Seelonce – term (French) used in marine radio communication to indicate that a distress call is being made and that all other radio traffic should cease.

Self – a feature in boats where any water that enters the cockpit is automatically drained or pumped out.

Set – (1) the trim of a sail (2) the direction in which a vessel is moving in relation to its intended course or direction (3) dropping an anchor and allowing it to settle.

Sextant – a navigational instrument used to determine a boat’s position by measuring the angles between the horizon and celestial objects such as the sun and stars.

Shackle – metal fastener with a removable pin or bolt used to connect two parts of a chain or rigging together or to attach a line or cable to an object.

Sheave – grooved wheel or roller of a block pulley used to guide and redirect lines.

Sheet – a line used to adjust the position of a sail.

Ship – a large seagoing vessel.

Ship’s bell – a bell used to mark time aboard a ship.

Shipshape – in good order and condition.

Shipwreck – the remains of a sunken ship.

Shore – the land bordering a body of water, typically where it meets the water.

Shroud – a rope or cable used to support the mast of a boat.

Skeg – a structural extension of the keel that runs aft beneath the boat’s hull.

Skipper – the captain or person in charge of a ship or boat.

Slack – to loose or not taut lines or cables. Lack of tension or looseness in a sail or other piece of equipment.

Sloop – a sailing vessel that has a single mast with one mainsail and a headsail.

Snubber – a device used to relieve tension on a boat’s anchor chain, prevent the chain from chafing against the boat’s bow, and reduce shock loads on the anchor and chain.

SOG – Speed Over the Ground.

SOLAS – Safety of Life at Sea. An international treaty established in 1914 that sets minimum safety standards for ships.

Sole – the floor or bottom surface of a boat’s cabin or cockpit.

Sonar – a device that uses sound waves to detect the presence and location of underwater objects, used for navigation and detecting hazards.

SOS – Morse code distress signal used as an international standard for emergency situations. Listen to an SOS signal .

Soundings – measurements of the depth of water in a particular area.

Spar – a long, slender pole used to support sails on a boat.

Speed log – a device used to measure a boat’s speed through the water.

Spinnaker – a large sail used for downwind sailing.

Splice – join two ropes to form a permanent loop in a single rope. Involves weaving the strands of the rope together to create a strong, permanent bond.

Spreaders – horizontal struts that are attached to a sailing boat’s mast to keep the mast from bending and to help control the shape of the sails.

Spring line – a line used to control the position of a boat while it is docked.

Squall – a sudden, sharp increase in wind speed, regularly accompanied by rain, thunder, and lightning.

Square knot – also known as a reef knot, is a basic knot used to join two ropes of equal size. 

Stall – when the sail loses its ability to generate lift or control due to a lack of airflow.

Stanchion – vertical pole or post, made of metal or plastic, used to support a railing or guardrail.

Stand – a vessel that has the right-of-way and requires keeping her course and speed.

Standing part – the part of a line that is not actively used to perform a task, such as tying a knot or securing a line to a cleat.Opposite to the working end.

Standing Rigging – fixed lines or wires on a sailboat that support the mast and keep it in place. This includes the forestay, backstay, and shrouds. Different from the running rigging, which is used to control the sails and is adjusted frequently.

Starboard – the right side of a boat when facing forward.

Starboard tack – sailing with the wind coming from the starboard side of the boat, and the sail is set to the port side of the boat.

Stay – a line or wire that supports a mast from the bow (forestay), stern (backstay), or either side (sidestays).

Staysail – a type of sail that is set on a stay instead of a mast.

Steerage way – when a boat moving forward has enough water flowing over its rudder(s) to enable it to be steered effectively.

Stem – the forward-most part of a boat’s bow that curves upward to provide a shape for the hull to cut through the water efficiently.

Stern – the rear or aft part of a boat.

Stern line – a line used to secure the stern of a vessel to a dock, pier, or other mooring point.

Sternpost – the vertical post at the back of the ship’s hull.

Sternway – the reverse or backward motion of a boat.

Stores – the supplies or provisions needed for a vessel’s operation during a voyage.

Stow – to pack or store cargo or equipment on a ship.

Strake – a continuous line of planking or plating along the hull of a boat.

Sump pump  – a device used to remove water that has accumulated in a pit or shower basin.

Swell – a long, rolling wave caused by wind or distant storms .

Tabernacle   – a hinged support structure that enables a mast to be lowered and raised easily. Is a useful feature for sailboats that need to pass under low bridges or power lines.

Tack – (1) the lower forward corner of the sail. (2) To turn a sailboat’s bow through the wind so that the wind catches the opposite side of the sail. (3) noun used to indicate the direction the sailboat is sailing with respect to the wind e.g. port tack or starboard tack.

Tackle – a system of ropes and pulleys used to hoist or move heavy objects on a boat.

Taffrail – the rail or railing around the stern of a vessel,  and is primarily used for safety.

Taking in – furling or reefing a sail to reduce its area.

Tang – metal fitting used to attach standing rigging, such as shrouds and stays, to a mast or spar.

Telltales – thin strips of cloth or yarn that are attached to a sail, used to indicate airflow and sail trim.

Tender – small boat used to ferry people and supplies to and from shore. Also called dinghy .

Thwart – a crosswise seat in a boat.

Tidal range – the difference in water level between high tide and low tide in a particular area.

Tide – the periodic rise and fall of water level caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun.

Tiller – a handle or lever used to steer a boat.

Toe rail – a narrow strip of wood, metal, or fiberglass molding along the edge of a sailboat’s deck near the hull, mainly used to secure a foothold for crew moving around the deck.

Tonnage – the total weight or volume of cargo that a vessel can carry, and usually expressed in either gross tonnage (GT) or net tonnage (NT).

Topmast – a mast situated above the lower mast on a ship.

Topsail – a sail set on the top of a ship’s mast.

Topside – the upper part of a boat’s hull.

Track – a device or structure that allows a sail or other object to move along a fixed path.

Trampoline – netting that is stretched between the hulls of a catamaran or trimaran, providing a stable and comfortable surface for passengers to relax on.

Transom – the flat, vertical surface at the stern of a boat.

Trapeze – wire and equipment used on a sailing boat to allow crew members to hang out outboard to counterbalance the force of the wind on the sails.

Traveler – device that allows the mainsail to be moved horizontally along the boat.

Trim – to adjust the sails or ballast to maintain a boat’s stability and speed.

Trimaran – a type of multihull boat consisting of a main hull and two smaller outrigger hulls called amas, attached to the main hull with lateral struts.

True north – the direction of the North Pole.

True wind – actual speed and direction of the wind experienced when there is no other movement or influence.

Tuning – process of adjusting the rigging and sails of a sailboat to optimize performance and balance in different wind and sea conditions.

Turnbuckle – device used for adjusting the tension or length of lines, cables, tie rods, and other tensioning systems.

Turning mark – buoy or other fixed object used in sailing or boat racing to mark a course change.

Turtling – when a boat capsizes, with the mast pointing down towards the sea bottom.

Underway – a boat that is in motion.

Unmoor – to release a boat from its moorings.

Uphaul – a line used to hoist a sail, flag, or spar up to the masthead.

Upwind – the direction that is facing or heading towards the wind. See beat.

V berth – bed in “V shape” typically found in the forward cabin of a boat. .

V bottom – also known as a V-hull, is a type of boat hull design that features a V-shaped hull that slices through the water.

Vang – see boom vang and kicking strap.

Veer – (1) change of wind direction clockwise. (2) To pay out or let out more line or chain, allowing a vessel to move farther away from its anchor point.

Vessel – a general term for any type of watercraft.

VHF – Very High Frequency.

Victuals – food or other provisions.

Vittles – see victuals.

VMG (Velocity Made Good) – speed at which a sailboat can make progress towards its destination while accounting for the effects of wind direction and currents.

Wake – the trail of disturbed water left behind by a moving ship.

Warship – a ship equipped for combat.

Watch – period of time during which one or more crew members are responsible for operating a vessel.

Waterline – the line where a boat’s hull meets the water.

Wavelength – distance between two consecutive points of the same phase on a radio wave.

Way – the forward movement of a boat through the water.

Waypoint – a predetermined location on a boat’s course.

Weather deck – the uppermost deck exposed to the elements on a ship.

Weather helm – the tendency of a boat to turn into the wind when the helm is released.

Wheel – a circular steering device used to steer a boat.

Whisker pole – also known as a spinnaker pole, is a horizontal spar used for jibing and holding out the clew of a jib or spinnaker.

Winch – mechanical device used to wind in or let out a cable or rope under tension.

Wind rose – a graphic tool used to visualize the distribution of wind directions and speeds at a particular location over a specific period of time.

Windage – the effect of wind on a boat or parts of it, that can cause it to drift or experience a lateral force.

Windlass – a mechanical device used on a boat to help with the raising and lowering of heavy equipment such as an anchor or sails.

Windward – the direction from which the wind is blowing. Opposite to Leeward.

Working end – the part of a line that is actively used to perform a task, such as tying a knot or securing a line to a cleat. Opposite to the standing part.

XTE (Cross Track Error) – perpendicular distance between a vessel’s actual position and its intended track.

Yacht – a pleasure boat used for cruising or racing.

Yard – a horizontal spar attached to a mast used to support a sail.

Yaw – movement or rotation of a vessel around its vertical axis that occurs when the boat is underway.

Yawl – a type of sailboat with two masts, with the smaller mizzen mast located aft the rudder post.

Zincs – type of sacrificial anodes used to protect boats and other underwater structures from corrosion.

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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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Sailing Terms: A Complete Guide 2024

Whether you dream of hoisting the mainsail, feeling the wind in your hair, or simply want to unravel the mysterious language of the sea, this blog post is your ultimate compass for popular sailing terms used today.

Sailing is an art that has been practiced for centuries, capturing the hearts and imaginations of adventurers and explorers throughout history. From the earliest voyages of discovery to modern-day regattas, the language of sailing has evolved, creating a rich tapestry of nautical terminology.

For the uninitiated, the world of sailing may seem like an intimidating labyrinth of jargon, full of puzzling phrases and unfamiliar expressions.

But fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a voyage of understanding, demystifying the terminology that surrounds this timeless and awe-inspiring activity.

Whether you’re an enthusiastic beginner, an armchair sailor, or simply curious about the fascinating lexicon of the sea, this blog post will provide you with a sturdy anchor of knowledge.

We’ll explore the essential terms that every sailor should know, from basic equipment and boat parts to navigation techniques and crew roles.

Prepare to set sail as we delve into the meaning behind expressions like “trimming the sails,” “starboard,” “tacking,” and “point of sail.”

By the time we reach the shore, you’ll have gained a solid grasp of sailing terminology, allowing you to converse fluently with seasoned sailors, comprehend sailing literature, and perhaps even take your first steps towards mastering the art of sailing.

So, whether you’re a landlocked adventurer dreaming of the open seas or a curious soul seeking to expand your nautical lexicon, join us as we unfurl the sails and navigate the captivating world of sailing terms.

Let’s set a course for knowledge, with the wind in our sails and the horizon on the horizon!

Table Of Contents

• Important sailing terms for beginners
• Sailing terms: A complete guide

Important Sailing Terms For Beginners

We’ve all been there. In fact, sometimes I very much feel that I am still a beginner and I think any sailor that tells you they don’t have days where they feel like too is lying!

Sailing is ever-changing, and every situation is ever so slightly different. It’s one of the most wonderful things about sailing and one of the absolute worst!

But one thing is for sure, when you’re a beginner and being totally bombarded with sailing terms it’s really not helpful. You don’t need to know every single sailing term straight away. No matter what your crusty sailing instructor tells you!

There are however some really useful ones to learn straight away and these sailing terms will help you out a lot as you learn the ropes (or the lines, as us sailors like to say!) We’ve narrowed down the sailing terminology that we found essential when we started out sailing.

Focus on these for now and you’ll be amazed at how quickly the others become part of your everyday vocabulary as you learn to sail .

Aft : The back of the boat, or near the back of the boat. Aft basically means back!

Alongside: When the boat is next to a pier or another vessel.

Apparent wind : This is the wind that can be felt. It could refer to speed or direction, and is often different to the true wind. For example, if you are sailing forwards at 5 knts, the wind speed will feel stronger than if you are sitting still. The wind that can be felt is the apparent wind.

Astern : Behind the boat. Sailors often say ‘going astern’, which means going backwards or going in reverse.

Beam reach : A point of sail. When the wind is blowing perpendicular to the direction that you’re sailing.

Bearing away : Steering the boat away from the direction in which the wind is blowing.

Bilge : This is the bottom of the inside of the boat. Water collects in the bilge, and then you use a bilge pump to pump the water overboard. Many people store things in their bilge for longer passages.

Boom : This is the long pole that sticks out of the mast. It holds the bottom of the mainsail in place and can be moved from side to side depending on where the wind is coming from. Booms can be very dangerous, as they are heavy and tend to carry a lot of power when the sail is full of wind.

Bow : The front of the boat.

Broad reach : A point of sail. Sailing with the wind coming off your stern quarter, a position in between the beam and stern of the boat.

Cleats : The metal blocks to which you secure lines.

Close-hauled : A point of sail. Sailing as close to the wind as possible without the sails flapping. On a monohull, the boat will usually heel over the most on this point of sail.

Close Reach : A point of sail. When you’re sailing between a beam reach and close hauled. Again, as you are travelling towards to wind on this point of sail it is likely the boat will be heeled over.

Dead run or Running Dead Downwind : A point of sail. Sailing with the wind coming from directly behind the boat. Many people use a light wind sail to catch the wind if the conditions are right, or pole out a sail to be ‘wing on wing’ and catch as much of the wind as possible.

Draft: The depth of a boat when it’s sitting in the water.

Fender: An inflated bumper used to keep the boat from banging into the dock or another boat.

Genoa : A large forward sail that comes back past the mast when fully unfurled. It is the same as a job sail but larger.

Heave to: A sailing manouvre used mostly during storms, which lies the boat favourably to waves while making only very slight headway.

Jib : A triangular forward sail, smaller than a genoa.

Jibing : When you steer the boat downwind from one direction to the other to keep the sails full. As you move from one direction to the other the wind will come from a different side and the sails will need to be moved across the boat to keep them powered up. It is similar to tacking, but going downwind instead of up! There is more danger from the boom when jibing.

Mainsail : The main sail on the boat, attached to the mast.

Mayday : The emergency call you make over the radio to show the boat or crew are in distress and needs immediate assistance.

No-sail zone : Also called the dead zone. This is an area 45 degrees either side of directly into the wind. This is the area a boat can’t sail in, and your sails will flap and the boat will power down if you try.

Port : The left side of the boat when facing forward.

Reef : When you lower some of the sail to give less sail area to the wind, usually done as the wind speed picks up.

Sheet : A line or rope used to control the trim of a sail.

Starboard : The right side of the boat when facing forward.

Stern : The back end of the boat.

Tacking : Turning the boat into the wind to change direction. You will pass through the dead zone quickly, adjusting the sails to the other side of the boat so you can continue to sail towards the wind in a zig-zag type shape.

Topping lift : A rope running from the back end of the boom to the top of the mast. This line controls the height of the boom and prevents it from falling when the sail isn’t raised.

Winch : A mechanical device used to pull the lines that control sails.

Windlass : A winch used to raise and lower the anchor.

Most of the terms below you can muddle by without knowing and pick them up as you go.

A lot of them are just fancy terms for things you probably just use a different name for in every day life, and while they’re useful to have in your sailing vocabulary they can be communicated in other ways, or picked up as and when is necessary!

Sailing Terms: A Complete Guide

Here is a more comprehensive guide to different sailing terms. Feel free to look through them and start to get familiar with them if you’re a new sailor, but don’t let them overwhelm you! You will pick them up the more time you spend on the water and around other sailors.

Abeam : Anything to the side of your boat. If you spot a vessel beside you, you can say it is abeam, and people will know to look out at 90 degrees from the centreline of your boat.

Abaft : Towards the back of the boat. Anything abaft means towards the stern, so the life ring is abaft the mast, meaning the opposite of forward or the mast. It could also mean something behind the boat, like rocks or another vessel.

Abandon ship: A command given to leave the boat immediately. Usually given by the captain when the boat and crew are in serious danger.

Adrift: Unattached to the sea bed. It usually means a vessel that isn’t anchored and not under control, so free to float around where ever the wind blows.

Aground: Resting on or touching the ground or bottom. This usually applies to a ship that has run aground, and is now stuck on the sea floor.

Anchor: A heavy piece of specially shaped metal that keeps the boat secured to the ground.

Athwartship : The position across a vessel from side to side at right angles to the keel.

Backing (a sail) : Forcing the wind into the ‘wrong’ side of the sail by pulling it to the opposite side of the boat.

Backstay : The wire that runs from the back of the boat up to the top of the mast to stop it from falling forward. The backstay is often thicker and stronger than the other stays.

Bailer : A scoop that is used to collect water from the bottom of a vessel. It can be any container! You’ll want one in your grab bag for if you ever need to bail water from a life raft or a dinghy.

Ballast : Weight to add stability to your vessel. The weight is usually lead or iron and can often be found within the keel of the boat. Some boats add extra ballast for more stability.

Batten : A thin strip of fiberglass (usually) that slots into pockets of the mainsail to help it maintain an open shape. Battens run from the back edge of the sail, the leech, to the forward edge of the sail, the luff. Most will have more than one batten, but not all mainsails have battens.

Beam : The widest point of the boat.

Bend : A knot used to connect two ropes.

Berth : Berth has several meanings. It could be your bed onboard, or it could be your slip in a marina.

Bight : A bend in a rope or line. When a rope forms a bight, it has changed direction 180 degrees.

Bimini : The cover over the cockpit. Usually this is made from canvas and can be removed. It shades from the sun and offers a little protection from the rain.

Binnacle : The pedestal centrally located in the cockpit. It usually holds the steering wheel along with navigational equipment like your chart plotter and compass.

Bitter end: The last part of a rope or cable, usually referring to the anchor chain. Once the chain or rope has been paid out completely it has reached its bitter end.

Block : A pulley.

Boom vang : This prevents the boom and mainsail from moving upwards which sailing. It pulls the boom down to help the mainsail keep the right shape.

Boot Top or Boot Stripe : The paint between the boat’s bottom paint and it’s topside paint. It’s usually a white stripe that runs around the boat.

Bowsprit : A section of the boat that runs even further forward than the bow. It looks like a small diving board sticking out the front of the boat. Not all boats have a bowsprit and they are more common on classic boats. They allow the rigging to be attached further forward.

Broach : When a boat sailing downwind accidentally ends up sideways to the waves and heels over dangerously. This is usually caused by large waves that force the boat to travel too fast and end up in a position beam on to the waves.

Bulkhead : The walls in a boat that run across the centerline of the vessel. These are structurally important and mustn’t be messed with!

Capsize : When a vessel tips over past 90 degrees.

Catamaran : A vessel with two hulls.

Centerboard : A keel that can lift up and down depending on the point of sail. It helps the boat to point further to wind when down, or run more easily downwind when raised. When raised, the boat can sneak into shallower waters.

Centerline : An imaginary line that runs all the way from the center of the bow to the center of the stern.

Chainplate : A metal plate attached to the hull of the boat, which the rigging is attached to. Chainplates are very important to hold the mast upright, and must be well maintained. Some are visible on the exterior and others are hidden on the interior.

Chandlery : A store that sells boat supplies.

Chock : A fitting that a line passes through to change direction without chafing.

Clew : The lower back corner of a sail, where the foot and leech of the sail meet.

Coamings : A area around the cockpit or hatches that is designed to keep out water.

Cockpit : The area where the helm of the boat is. It is usually where there is seating, and the entrance to the interior of the boat. Cockpits can be at the stern of the boat or in the centre. Some sailors prefer a centre cockpit for a feeling of safety, others prefer the extra space you get with an aft cockpit.

Companionway : The entrance into the interior of the vessel.

Cotter pin : A bendable metal pin that you fit into a metal rod and then bend back to lock. You will find these most commonly on the rigging.

Daybeacons : Markers for navigation that are on posts. These are red (port) or green (starboard).

Dead reckoning : Determining a vessel’s position by knowing the direction and speed traveled.

Dinghy : The small, usually inflatable boat that you use to reach the shore when your big boat is at anchor. These are also called tenders.

Dodger : This is like the windshield of the boat. It’s a structure at the front of the cockpit to protect the helmsman from wind or spray.

Dismasting : When the mast breaks off. This usually happens because of a rigging failure, or can happen if the rig is overpowered.

Displacement : The weight of the water that would otherwise be in the place of the boat’s hull.

Drogue : A sea anchor to help slow down the boat. You might use one in big seas when the boat is sailing too fast down the waves. It can look like a small parachute on a line that you hang off the back of a boat, or even just a line or several lines hanging from the stern can help to slow the boat down.

Ebb tide : After high tide when the water is receding towards low tide.

EPIRB : Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon. This device transmits a distress signal to alert emergency services to the position of a vessel in trouble. Most people carry an EPRIB in their grab bag, or an easy to reach place in the boat.

Fairlead:  A fitting which ensures a line runs in the right direction without snagging on anything.

Fathom : A measurement of water depth equal to 6 feet, not used very often anymore!

Fid : A tool used for splicing a line.

Fiddle : The raised edge around a table to prevent things from falling off in a seaway.

Fix : Determining a vessel’s location by using the compass bearing of two or more fixed points of reference. You will usually use this to check the boat isn’t dragging when anchored.

Fin keel : A fixed keel that hangs below the boat to provide stability.

Flogging : When a sail flaps noisily in the wind because it is not being filled properly. This usually happens when the boat is trying to sail too close to the wind.

Flood tide : The time between low tide and high tide when the water is rising.

Following sea: Waves or tidal movement going in the same direction as the boat.

Foot : The bottom edge of a sail.

Fore : At or near the bow (front) of a vessel.

Forestay : The rigging wire which goes from the bow to the top of the mast. This is where the foresail is attached, either hanked on or using a roller furling system. Most modern boats use a furling system as it is easier and quicker to use.

Full keel : A fixed, ballasted keel running the whole length of the boat.

Furling system : The system used to roll up a sail when it’s not in use and unfurl it when it is. It is most common to find furling foresails but in mast furling for the mainsail has also become more popular over recent years.

Freeboard : The distance on a vessel from the waterline to the deck.

Galley : The kitchen!

Gelcoat : The paint used on the outside of a boat. It’s a tough resin that forms a protective coating.

Gimbals : You will usually find these on your galley stove. They make your oven act a little like a rocking crib, so that it can stay level even when the boat is heeling or rocking. This is essential for keeping things on the stove while sailing or in a rolly anchorage.

Gooseneck : The point at which the boom attaches to the mast, letting the boom move freely from side to side and up and down. You then use lines to control it!

Ground tackle : The anchor, chain, and line that you use for anchoring or fixing the boat to the bottom of the sea when you want to stop and stay put.

Gunwale : The top edge of a boat’s hull.

Halyard : The line which attaches to a sail to raise it.

Hanks : The clips that attach the front edge of a sail to the forestay. It is more common these days to use a furling system for your main forestay, so you will likely only see these on a storm sail.

Hatch : A window in the ‘roof’ of the sailboat. It opens out onto the deck.

Head : The bathroom on a boat.

Headway : The amount you’re moving forward through the water. Like ‘making headway’.

Heave to : A way to keep the boat from moving through the water with minimal drift, usually used in heavy, dangerous seas. You back the foresail but lock the helm hard over towards the wind. Your boat should sit nicely creating a slick over breaking waves and you should only drift a little through the water. Not all boats will heave to nicely, so you should test this method with your vessel.

Heel : The tilt of a sailboat that usually happens when you’re sailing towards the wind.

In-Irons : When you steer the boat into the wind (by accident or on purpose) and the sails lose power. The boat will lose steerage as it slows down.

Jackline or Jackstay : Safety lines that run from the bow to the stern. You can clip yourself onto these lines so that you don’t fall overboard when doing tasks that require you to leave the cockpit.

Jib sheets : The lines you use to control the jib.

Kedge anchor : A small, lighter second anchor that you can use as a back up or a stern anchor.

Keel : The bottom of the boat.

Ketch : A sailboat with two masts, where the forward mast is the taller mast.

Knot : Usually referring to speed when sailing rather than the knots you tie in a line. One knot is equal to one nautical mile per hour.

Lazyjacks : Thin lines that run from the boom to the mast to help control the mainsail when it’s lowered.

Leech : The back edge of a sail.

Lee shore : The shore onto which the wind is blowing. This is the side of an island you want to avoid anchoring on, as it will mean the wind is blowing directly into the anchorage.

Leeward : The direction the wind is blowing towards. So if the wind is blowing from the north then the south is leeward.

Liveaboard: Someone who lives full time, or the majority of the time, on board their boat

Luff : The forward edge of the sail.

Mast: The tall pointy thing that holds up the sails!

Mizzen : The shorter mast behind the main mast on a ketch.

Monohull : A boat with a single hull.

Mooring field : An anchorage full of permanently attached buoys , to which you can moor up your boat.

Multihull : A vessel with more than one hull like a catamaran or trimaran.

On the hard : When your boat is out of the water, usually in a boat yard.

Painter : The line which attaches your dinghy to your main boat.

Pan Pan : This is a distress call that isn’t quite as urgent as a Mayday call. You will put out a pan pan on the radio if your boat needs assistance or you want to alert the emergency services of a problem that might get worse and become a mayday. For example, you have lost your engine and will drift into rocks if you can’t solve the problem or the wind doesn’t pick up in time.

Points of sail : The way your boat is travelling in relation to the wind.

Port tack : Sailing with the wind hitting the port side of the vessel.

Pulpit : The metal rails at the bow of the boat.

Pushpit : The metal rails at the back of the boat.

Quarter : The back corner area of the boat.

Reef : Reefing the sails is when you lower some of the sail to give less sail area to the wind, usually done as the wind speed picks up.

Rigging : All the wires and ropes used to hold the mast in place and adjust the sails.

Roach : The curved shape of the rearmost edge of a triangular sail.

Roller furling : The system that rolls up the sails to store them when they’re not in use.

Rudder : The thing that controls the direction of the boat. This is usually a fin at the stern of the boat under the water line and behind the propeller. It’s controlled by a steering wheel or tiller from the cockpit.

Running : Sailing downwind.

Running rigging : The lines which control the sails.

Schooner : A sailboat with two or more masts. The mainmast is at the back.

Seacock : A valve that can be opened or closed to control the flow of water in or out of the boat.

Scope : The length of chain between the anchor and the boat.

Scuppers : Deck drains to allow water to flow overboard when it rains or when crash onto the cockpit.

Securite : A call transmitted over the radio to alert sailors to potential dangers in their area.

Shackle : A metal U or D shaped link with a removable pin that can be used to attach lines to blocks and other useful things like that!

Shrouds : Wires or ropes running from the chainplates to the mast to stop the mast moving from side to side.

Skeg : An extension of the hull hanging in front of the rudder, that the rudder is attached to. It can help protect the rudder from getting hit or from debris in the sea.

Sloop : A single masted sailboat with a mainsail and one foresail.

Slugs : The things that the mainsail sits in to run it up the boom.

Spinnaker : A sail used for light, downwind sail. Spinnakers are often the biggest sail on the boat, made from a light material and they are often brightly coloured.

Splice : When you connect two lines together using their weave. You will often need a fid for this.

Spreaders : The horizontal poles that come out from the sides of the mast.

Spring line : These are used when docking the boat. They are the lines that come from the bow or the stern to a point midship on the dock. They are used to control how far the boat can move forwards and backwards while in its slip.

Stanchions : The metal posts along the outside of the deck through which the lifelines run.

Standing rigging : The wires and ropes, such as the shrouds and stays, that are permanently in place and hold up the mast.

Starboard tack : Sailing with the wind hitting the starboard side of the boat.

Stays : The wires or ropes running from the bow and stern to stop the mast moving forwards or backwards.

Storm jib : A small foresail that can be hanked on during heavy weather. It is made from tough, heavy material and often brightly coloured.

Tack : The forward lower corner of a sail.

Tender : The same as a dinghy. A small boat, usually inflatable, that you use to get to shore when the boat is anchored.

Tiller : A bar used to control the rudder from the cockpit. It is the same as a steering wheel, but some prefer using a rudder, or find it takes up less space in the cockpit.

Toe rail : The raised lip around the edge of the deck that helps stops things falling overboard.

Trim : Adjusting the shape and angle of the sails to get optimum performance.

Watermaker: A device used on board sailboats to make fresh drinkable water from the sea.

Weather helm: If the helm was centered, the boat would turn towards the wind (weather). Because of this, the tiller must be pulled to the windward side of the boat in order to make the boat sail in a straight line.

Windward : The direction from which the wind is blowing.

Wing on wing : Sailing downwind with the foresail and the mainsail out on different sides of the boat to catch as much of the wind as possible.

Conclusion: Sailing Terms

As our voyage through the captivating realm of sailing terms comes to an end, we can reflect upon the vast expanse of knowledge we have acquired.

From bow to stern, port to starboard, and every gust of wind in between, we have ventured into the depths of nautical language, emerging with a newfound understanding of this unique language.

By unraveling the mysteries of sailing terminology, we have unlocked the door to a world of adventure, heritage, and camaraderie. We now possess the tools to decipher the conversations of seasoned sailors, navigate the pages of maritime literature, and even embark on our own seafaring adventures with confidence.

But beyond the practical benefits, exploring sailing terms has allowed us to connect with a tradition that spans generations. It has illuminated the bond between humans and the vast, untamed sea, reminding us of the courage, skill, and resourcefulness required to tame its forces.

As you continue your own sailing journey, remember that understanding the language of the sea is just the beginning.

Embrace the spirit of exploration, befriend the winds, and let the gentle lapping of the waves guide you towards new horizons. Seek out opportunities to hoist the sails, adjust the rigging, and experience the thrill of harnessing the elements.

May the knowledge gained from this voyage serve as a rudder, steering you towards a deeper appreciation of sailing’s beauty and complexity.

And as you embark on your own adventures, may these sailing terms be your faithful companions, reminding you of the legacy of sailors who have come before and the timeless allure of the open water.

So, fair winds and following seas, dear readers! May you find joy, excitement, and a profound sense of connection as you explore the vast ocean of sailing terminology.

Whether you choose to cast off the lines and embark on your own voyage or simply revel in the tales and traditions of seafaring lore, let the language of sailing be your guiding star.

Until we meet again on the vast blue expanse, keep dreaming of distant shores, salty breezes, and the eternal call of the sea. Bon voyage!

And yes, this is how I talk all the time. Because I’m a sailor, and that’s how we nautical folk communicate!

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Sailing Terms Demystified: A Comprehensive Guide to 14 Common Sailing Terminology

• May 28, 2023

Ahoy, sailors! If you’re new to the world of sailing, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the myriad of sailing terms that seasoned sailors casually toss around. But fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unravel the mystery behind common sailing terms, providing simple explanations and examples to help you navigate the nautical jargon with ease. Let’s set sail and explore these essential sailing terms.

Table of Contents

Port and starboard.

When on a boat, “port” refers to the left side, while “starboard” refers to the right side. These terms are used to communicate directions and indicate the location of objects or maneuvers. For example, “Please pass me the fenders on the starboard side.”

Bow and Stern

The “bow” refers to the front or forward part of a boat, while the “stern” refers to the back or rear part.

Windward and Leeward

“Windward” refers to the side of the boat or the direction from which the wind is coming. On the other hand, “leeward” refers to the opposite side, sheltered from the wind. Sailors use these terms to plan their course and make tactical decisions.

Tacking and Jibing

“Tacking” is the act of turning the bow of the boat through the wind, changing the side from which the wind is coming. This allows the boat to change direction while sailing upwind. “Jibing” is the opposite maneuver, turning the stern of the boat through the wind to change direction when sailing downwind.

“Rigging” refers to the system of ropes, wires, and other components used to support and control the sails and mast. It includes various elements such as halyards (ropes used to hoist the sails), sheets (ropes used to control the angle of the sails), and shrouds (wires supporting the mast).

“Heeling” describes the leaning or tilting of a sailboat due to the force of the wind on the sails. The boat can lean to one side, causing it to tilt and creating a thrilling sensation. Sailors adjust the sails and shift their weight to maintain balance and control.

“Reefing” is the process of reducing the area of a sail to decrease its surface area and power in strong winds. This is done by partially lowering or folding a section of the sail and securing it, thus making the sail smaller and more manageable.

The “keel” is the central structural element of a sailboat, usually made of heavy material such as lead or iron. It extends beneath the boat into the water and provides stability and prevents the boat from sliding sideways.

Navigational Markers

Navigational markers, also known as buoys, are floating objects that indicate safe passages, hazards, or important locations in the water. They are color-coded and labelled according to their purpose. For instance, a red buoy with even numbers indicates the right side of a channel when entering from the sea.

Points of Sail

Sailboats have different angles at which they can sail relative to the direction of the wind, which are called “points of sail.” The main points of sail include close-hauled (sailing as close to the wind as possible), reaching (sailing at an angle between close-hauled and a broad reach), and running (sailing with the wind directly behind).

By familiarizing yourself with these essential sailing terms, you’ll be able to communicate effectively, understand instructions, and navigate the sailing world with confidence. So hoist your sails, embrace the wind, and embark on unforgettable nautical adventures armed with the knowledge of sailing terminology. Fair winds and smooth seas!

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Top 100 Essential Sailing Terms Every Crew Must Know

In the world of sailing, communication is key. The complex lingo utilized by sailors is far more than just jargon — it's an integral part of safe and effective teamwork. Here Cruisers Directory, we aim to help crew members brush up on sailing vernacular or beginners get a head start with our carefully curated list of the top 100 essential sailing terms everyone should know. Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete novice, this comprehensive guide is your indispensable companion at sea.

1. Abeam: At a right angle to the length of the boat. 2. Aft: Towards the stern (back) of the ship. 3. Amidships: The middle section of a boat. 4. Anchorage: A designated area where vessels anchor. 5. Astern: Behind the boat. 6. Ballast: Weight added to the boat to increase stability. 7. Beam: The widest part of a boat. 8. Berth: The bed on a boat; also a slip in a marina. 9. Bilge: The lowest part of a boat's interior hull. 10. Binnacle: A casing on the deck that holds the ship’s compass. 11. Boom: The horizontal pole extending from the mast to hold the bottom of a sail. 12. Bow: The front part of the boat. 13. Bowsprit: A pole extending forward from the boat's bow, to which the forestays of a ship are fastened. 14. Broad Reach: Sailing with the wind coming from behind, and slightly to the side, of the boat. 15. Buoy: A floating device that can have many uses, as to mark a channel, anchor a boat or indicate position. 16. Capsize: When a boat turns over in the water. 17. Chart: A map used for navigation. 18. Cleat: A fitting to which lines are made fast. 19. Coaming: A raised lip around a hatch to prevent water entry. 20. Cockpit: Area towards the stern of the boat where the helm is. 21. Crew: The people who operate a ship. 22. Deckhand: A member of the crew who helps perform manual tasks on a boat. 23. Displacement: The weight of water displaced by a floating boat, giving the vessel's weight. 24. Doldrums: A nautical term referring to a calm sea with no wind. 25. Draught/Draft: The depth of water needed to float a vessel. 26. Ebb: The outgoing or falling tide. 27. Fathom: A measurement of depth in the sea (6 feet). 28. Fender: A cushioning device used to protect the boat. 29. Foresail: Any sail set forward of the main mast. 30. Freeboard: The distance from water to the lowest point of the boat's deck. 31. Galley: The kitchen on a boat. 32. Gybe/Jibe: To change direction when sailing downwind. 33. Halyard: A line (rope) for hoisting (raising) the sails. 34. Head: The bathroom on a boat. 35. Helm: The wheel or tiller controlling the rudder. 36. Hull: The main body of the boat. 37. Jib: A sail set forward of the mast. 38. Keel: The boat's backbone; a weighted structure at the bottom of the hull, giving the boat stability. 39. Knot: A measurement of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour. 40. Latitude: The distance north or south of the equator, measured in degrees. 41. Leeway: The sideways drift of the boat caused by wind or currents. 42. Longitude: The distance east or west of the prime meridian at Greenwich, England. 43. Main Sail: The primary and largest sail on a boat. 44. Mast: Vertical pole on a boat which holds the sails. 45. Mooring: An arrangement for securing a boat to a mooring buoy or a pier. 46. Nautical Mile: Distance measurement at sea, which is about 1.15 statute miles. 47. Navigation: The science of plotting a course for a boat. 48. Port: When facing forward, the left side of the boat. 49. Quartermaster: The person in charge of steering the ship. 50. Quay: A stone or concrete platform lying alongside water for loading and unloading ships. 51. Reef: To reduce the area of a sail. 52. Rudder: The steering device mounted at the stern of the ship. 53. Sail: Fabric attached to the mast that catches the wind and propels the boat. 54. Salon/Saloon: The living area in the boat, often part of the galley. 55. Seaworthy: A boat able to safely navigate through waters. 56. Skipper: The captain or master of a boat. 57. Starboard: When facing forward, the right side of the boat. 58. Stern: The back part of a boat. 59. Tack: To change the boat's direction by moving the bow through the wind. 60. Tender: A small boat used to ferry people and supplies to and from a larger boat. 61. Tide: The rise and fall of the ocean's surface. 62. Transom: The flat surface forming the stern of a boat. 63. Trim: Adjustment of the sails to optimize performance. 64. Vessel: Another name for a boat or ship. 65. Winch: A device used to pull in or let out ropes or cables. 66. Yacht: A pleasure boat, can be powered by wind, motor or both. 67. Yaw: The swaying motion of a boat moving from side to side off its course. 68. Zephyr: A light wind. 69. Hoist: To raise something, often a sail. 70. Leech: The aft (back) edge of a sail. 71. Jib Sheet: The line that controls the jib. 72. Bowline: A type of knot. 73. Clew: The lower corner of a sail. 74. Fluke: The part of the anchor that digs into the bottom. 75. Gimbal: A device that keeps an object level. 76. Hatch: An opening in the deck to the interior. 77. Heave: The vertical rise and fall of a boat. 78. Inboard: More towards the center of a vessel. 79. Kedge: A light anchor used in kedging or warping a boat. 80. Luff: The forward edge of a sail. 81. Pelorus: A navigational tool used to measure angles between objects. 82. Rhumb Line: A line on the earth's surface that cuts all meridians at the same angle. 83. Sloop: A one-masted sailing boat with a mainsail and jib rigged fore and aft. 84. Telltale: A piece of material attached to a sail to indicate wind direction. 85. Vang: A line used to control the boom's movement. 86. Waterline: Where the hull meets the surface of the water. 87. Xebec: An historic sailing ship with lateen sails used mostly in the Mediterranean Sea. 88. Yawl: A two-masted sailing vessel, similar to a ketch but with a smaller mizzen mast. 89. Zephyr: A light or west wind. 90. Figure Eight Knot: A stopper knot. 91. Genoa: A type of large jib or staysail which overlaps the main sail, sometimes eliminating it. 92. Impeller: The rotating part of a centrifugal pump. 93. Jackline: A line used to clip on a safety harness. 94. Ketch: A two-masted sailboat, the aft mast (mizzen) is shorter and set aft of the rudder post. 95. Log: A record of courses or operation. 96. Mizzenmast: The mast aft of a ship's mainmast. 97. Noon Sight: A sextant observation of the sun at noon to determine latitude. 98. Overboard: Over the side or out of the boat. 99. Pintle: The pin or bolt on which the rudder pivots. 100. Quarter: The sides of a boat between the stern and the midship.

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A Beginner's Guide to Sailing a Sailboat

Key Information for Beginners and Sailors

There are many ways to learn to sail:

• You can just jump in a boat with a friend and try to learn from experience
• You can sign up for a formal course at a sailing school
• You can buy or borrow a small sailboat and do it all on your own

No matter which way works best for you, it helps to understand the boat and what's involved in sailing first before you're out on the water, where suddenly you might get into trouble.

The Basic Steps of Sailing

Sailing involves both specific knowledge and skills. The following are the basic steps of learning to sail- as much as you can learn while not actually on a boat. You don't have to follow this order; skip ahead if you already know some of the basics. If you're mostly new to sailing, you might want to proceed through these steps like chapters in a manual.

• Understand Basic Sailing Terms. To get into sailing, you have to understand the words that are used to talk about the sailboat and the skills used to sail. Start here with a review of basic sailing terms. Don't worry about memorizing everything as many of these terms and concepts will become clearer as you read on about how to do it.
• Learn the Parts of the Boat. Before you go on the boat, it's helpful to know the words used in different parts of the boat. Even if you have an instructor, he or she won't say "Grab that rope over there and pull it," but instead will say "Haul in the jib sheet!" Review the basic boat terms you'll need to know.
• Start an Online Course. Now you're ready to learn more about what all those parts of the boat are used for. Here you can start an online learn-to-sail course by learning more about the parts of the boat along with a lot of photos, so you'll see what to do.
• Rig the Boat. Read to go sailing now? Hold it a minute- you have to rig the boat first by putting on sails and making other preparations. Here again are a lot of photos of what to do on a typical small sailboat used by beginners.
• Review Basic Sailing Techniques. OK, now you have the boat ready- so what do you do now to make it go? Manage the sails to go in the direction you want by learning basic sailing techniques.
• Discover How to Maneuver. Sailing in a set direction is reasonably easy, but eventually, you'll have to change direction. That often involves tacking and gybing. Take a moment to learn what's involved in these critical maneuvers.
• Recover From a Capsize. Now you've got the basics down. But did anyone ever tell you that small sailboats often tip over if the wind is gusting? Be prepared and carefully see how to recover from a capsize .
• Dock or Anchor the Boat. Now you're out there sailing and you've got the boat under control. Learn how to go faster, dock or anchor the boat and use some of the equipment you've ignored so far. Take a look at some of these additional sailing skills.
• Practice Tying Knots.  For thousands of years, sailors have used times where it is cold or raining by doing things like tying knots. Knots are important on a sailboat and you will need to learn at least some basic sailing knots to sail at all.
• Sail Safely. At this point, plus practice on the water, you're good to go. However, it's good to remember that water is a dangerous place. Learn the basics about sailing safety. Staying safe makes it easier to keep having fun out there.

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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.

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.

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.

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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100 Basic Yachting & Sailing Terms You Need To Know

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Yachting is an increasingly popular activity that involves exploring and enjoying bodies of water aboard sailboats or motorboats. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned sailor or brand-new to the sport; knowing the language used in yachting is crucial for efficient communication and secure navigation. We’ll look at some of the most often used terminology and expressions in the world of yachting in this list of 100 fundamental yachting terms, from boat parts to navigation and safety gear, and more. This list is an excellent place to start whether you’re seeking to brush up on your yachting terminology or are just beginning into the sport.

Aft – Toward the back of the boat

Anchor – A heavy object used to keep a boat in place

Ballast – Weight added to the bottom of a boat to improve stability

Beam – The width of a boat at its widest point

Bilge – The lowest point inside the boat where water collects

Bimini – A type of sunshade or canopy used on boats

Bow – The front of a boat

Buoy – A floating marker used to mark channels, hazards or anchorages

Cabin – An enclosed space on a boat used for sleeping and living quarters

Capsize – To tip over or turn upside down

Cleat – A metal or plastic fitting used to secure ropes or lines to the boat

Cockpit – The open area in the back of the boat where the steering and controls are located

Compass – A navigational tool used to determine the direction

Crew – The people who work on a boat, assisting with sailing or other duties

Deck – The top surface of a boat where people can stand or walk

Dock – A platform or structure where boats can be tied up or moored

Draft – The depth of a boat below the waterline

Fender – A cushion or bumper used to protect the boat from damage when docking

Flag – A piece of fabric used to signal or communicate on a boat

Galley – The kitchen area on a boat

Genoa – A type of sail that is used for cruising and racing

GPS – Global Positioning System, a navigational system that uses satellites to determine the location

Halyard – A rope or line used to hoist or lower a sail

Hatch – An opening in the deck or cabin of a boat

Head – The bathroom on a boat

Hull – The main body of the boat, typically made of fiberglass or wood

Jib – A small triangular sail located forward of the mast

Keel – A fin-shaped object located under the boat that provides stability and helps prevent drifting

Knot – A measure of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour

Lanyard – A short cord or rope used to secure equipment or gear on a boat

Latitude – A measure of distance north or south of the equator

Leeward – The side of the boat sheltered from the wind

Lifeline – A line or rope used to provide safety and support on the deck of a boat

Log – A device used to measure speed and distance traveled

Mast – A vertical pole or spar that supports the sails

Mooring – The process of securing a boat to a dock or anchor

Nautical – Relating to or involving ships, sailors, or navigation on water

Navigation – The process of planning and controlling the course of a boat

Oar – A long pole with a flat blade used for rowing a boat

Outboard – A motor located on the outside of the boat

Port – The left side of a boat when facing forward

Propeller – A device that uses rotating blades to provide forward motion to a boat

Pulpit – A railing or fence located on the bow of the boat

Rudder – A flat object located at the back of the boat used to steer

Sail – A piece of fabric used to catch the wind and propel the boat

Sailing is the practice of using the wind to power a vessel through the water

Sheet – A line or rope used to control the angle of the sails

Skipper – The person in charge of operating a boat

Stern – The back of the boat

Tack – The direction of a boat when it is sailing upwind

Throttle – The control used to increase or decrease engine speed

Tiller – A handle or lever used to steer a boat

Transom – The flat, vertical surface at the back of the boat where the outboard motor is mounted

Trim – The adjustment of the sails and other equipment to optimize performance

Wake – The waves created by a boat as it moves through the water

Windward – The side of the boat facing into the wind

Winch – A device used to pull or hoist heavy objects on a boat

Yacht – A larger, more luxurious type of boat typically used for pleasure cruising

Bilge pump – A device used to pump water out of the bilge

Boom – The horizontal pole or spar that extends from the mast to support the bottom of the sail

Bowline – A knot used to secure a line to a fixed object

Cam cleat – A device used to secure a line under tension

Catamaran – A type of boat with two parallel hulls

Centerboard – A movable fin located underneath the boat that helps improve stability and maneuverability

Chafe – The wearing away or damage to a rope or line caused by friction against another surface

Clew – The lower corner of a sail

Current – The flow of water in a particular direction

Dinghy – A small boat used to transport people or supplies to and from shore

Fairlead – A device used to guide a line or rope in a particular direction

Flotation device – A piece of equipment used to keep a person afloat in the water

Forestay – The wire or rope that supports the mast at the front of the boat

Gaff – A spar used to support the upper edge of a sail

Headway – The forward motion of a boat

Inboard – A motor located inside the boat

Jibsheet – The line or rope used to control the jib sail

Keelboat – A type of sailboat with a fixed keel for stability and maneuverability

Luff – The forward edge of a sail

Masthead – The top of the mast where the highest sails are attached

Navigation lights – Lights used to signal other boats of the position and direction of a boat at night

Outhaul – The line or rope used to control the tension of the bottom of the sail

Planing – The state of a boat when it is moving quickly across the water and partially out of the water

Powerboat – A type of boat that is powered by an engine rather than sails

Ratchet block – A device used to reduce the effort required to pull a line under tension

Reefing – The process of reducing the size of the sails in high wind conditions

Rigging – The system of ropes and wires used to support and control the sails and mast

Rudderpost – The vertical post or shaft that the rudder is attached to

Scow – A type of sailboat with a flat bottom and squared-off ends

Shackle – A metal fitting used to connect two pieces of rope or chain

Spinnaker – A large, lightweight sail used to catch the wind when sailing down

wind 90. Spreaders – The horizontal struts on a mast that help to support and spread the shrouds

Standing rigging – The fixed parts of a boat’s rigging system, such as the mast and shrouds

Stern light – A white light on the back of a boat used to signal other boats at night

Stowaway – A person who hides on a boat in order to travel without permission

Tiller extension – A device used to extend the length of the tiller to make steering easier

Topside – The upper part of a boat, above the waterline

Transom door – A door in the back of a boat that provides access to the water

Traveler – A device used to move the mainsail along the boom

Waterline – The level at which a boat floats in the water

Winch handle – A handle used to turn winches to control the sails and lines

Yawl – A type of sailboat with two masts, the smaller of which is located aft of the rudder post.

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Sailboat Heeling Explained In Simple Terms (For Beginners)

If you are new to sailing, then there are many sailing-related terminologies that you will need to learn.

One of those terms is ‘heeling.’ In this article, we will explain what sailboat heeling is and how to control your sailboat when it heels over.

Here is What “Heeling” in Sailing Means:

Heeling is the term used for when a sailboat leans over to either side (port or starboard) in the water by the excess force of the wind. Heeling is normal and counterbalanced by the sailboat’s keel or the crew’s weight distribution on a dinghy.

Table of Contents

What Exactly Makes A Sailboat Heel?

All sailboats are designed to heel, but a sailboat heels over when there is too much wind in the sails, forcing the boat to lean over and lose the harnessed wind power to move it forward.

As a boat heels, the wind pressure on the sails decreases because the sails present a smaller area and less resistance to the wind. The further the boat heels (or leans over), the less pressure.

In addition, boats with a keel have lots of ballast, or weight, to keep them upright in all but the strongest of wind or hurricane conditions. All sailboats will heel or lean over in strong winds, sometimes so far that the rail will dip into the water, and waves will wash onto the deck.

Heeling is simply a part of sailing, and many sailors enjoy it, especially when racing.

How Do I Keep My Sailboat From Heeling?

While all sailboats are designed to heel, sailors can use various techniques to reduce the amount of the angle of the heeling.

These techniques include the following:

Feathering Upwind – 

One of the quickest and easiest techniques a skipper can do in a strong gust of wind is to steer the boat a bit more into the direction of where the wind is coming.

This is called feathering upwind. Doing this releases or spills the wind out of the sails and decreases the wind’s pressure on the sails. This will cause the sails to flap and make a lot of noise (called luffing).

Luffing the sails too much can cause damage to the sails, so this technique is a temporary quick fix and not a long-term solution.

Easing the Mainsheet or the Traveler – 

Another quick technique is to change the angle of the mainsail so that it releases more wind and eases the pressure on the sail.

You can do this by letting out the main sheet (easing the mainsheet) or releasing or easing the traveler control sheet. Both methods will change the angle of the mainsail, releasing the wind pressure and causing your boat to sail more upright.

After a strong gust of wind has passed, you will be able to pull in the mainsail again quickly, to carry on sailing on course.

Reefing the Sails – 

Reefing the sails is a technique used to see or feel that the wind is building or getting stronger. Reefing entails making your sail area smaller, which will work differently on different boats depending on the boat’s set-up.

Reefing the headsail or jib will depend on whether the sailboat has a roller furler or hank on sails. If the boat has hank on sails, you will need to change the headsail to a smaller sail or even a storm jib. Today, most sailboats are equipped with a roller furling headsail, making the headsail sail area smaller.

You can ease the headsail sheet and pull on the roller furler out hauler to roll in the sail a couple of times. This is the equivalent of changing to a smaller sail.

Reefing the mainsail is a little more complicated. Mainsails generally have 2 – 3 reefing points which are stitched in when the sails are made.

The mainsail will need to be partially dropped to access these reefing points, but first, you will need to turn the boat to face the oncoming wind to take the pressure off the sail.

Once you have partially dropped the mainsail, you will need to hook in the reefing point at the mast, haul in the corresponding reefing line, and then retain the main halyard, which is the rope that holds up the mainsail.

How Much Should A Sailboat Heel?

Every sailboat is different, so the exact heel angle for each sailboat will differ.

However, the answer is probably somewhere between 15 and 25 degrees for a comfortable ride in real terms. Thirty degrees is considered the maximum heel for a keel sailboat, depending on the boat’s specific build, design, and characteristics.

Multihulls or catamarans need to be sailed at minimal heel angles; otherwise, they risk capsizing.

But practically, there is a much simpler way to know when your boat is heeling over too far. If you have to fight the steering, otherwise known as the helm, you are heeling too far, and you will need to adjust your sails or course concerning the wind.

How Much Heel Is Too Much?

Similarly, how much heel is too much will also depend on the type of sailing you do. Long-distance cruising, where your boat is your home, will typically involve less heeling than a racing monohull rounding the cans.

However, the amount a sailboat should heel is not opinion. All sailboats are designed to sail at a specified angle of heel. Each sailboat design is for a specific purpose, whether racing, cruising, or somewhere in between, and at their optimum heel angle, there is a minimum wet surface on the boat.

The sails are at a maximum exposure to the wind. When you are sailing and are not at the desired angle, the sailboat is not performing at its full potential.

In addition, if your boat is heeling too much, the boat will become difficult to steer and will slow down. So it’s better to make the necessary adjustments to make yourself and your crew more comfortable and go that little bit faster!

How Far Can A Sailboat Heel Before Capsizing?

For the sake of this article, when we refer to sailboats, we are referring to sailboats with keels and heeling.

Unlike small sailing dinghies, sailboats are designed to heel over without capsizing.

A sailboat is designed to comfortably heel at a certain angle, usually between 15 – 25 degrees. Heeling over more than this is uncomfortable and slows the boat down.

Generally, sailboats with keels can not tip over or capsize under normal sailing conditions. This is because of the weight in the keel. The weight of the keel has been designed to counterbalance the force of the wind in the sails. Plus, the more a boat heels over, the less pressure there is in the sails, and the keel will bring the boat to face into the wind where there is less pressure on the boat overall.

However, this does not mean a sailboat cannot capsize. There are stories of sailboats being knocked down in big waves and strong winds, but this is often temporary as the sailboat will often self-right or come upright by itself.

Extreme conditions such as gale-force winds combined with big seas, too much sail out, and waves crashing over the boat and flooding the cockpit may all combine to capsize a sailboat.

Learning to Sail: Heeling Over

How To Reef A Sail – A Beginners Guide

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