Glossary Archive

A set of internationally agreed-upon phrases used to ensure clear, concise, and unambiguous communication at sea, particularly between vessels and shore stations. Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP) were developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance safety at sea by reducing the risk of misunderstandings caused by language barriers. They provide a structured and...

A primary tidal reference location for which full tidal predictions, including times and heights of high and low water, are published.  Standard Ports serve as the main reference points for tidal predictions in nautical almanacs and tide tables. These ports have well-established tidal data based on long-term observations, allowing mariners to plan voyages, anchoring, and...

A warning, given by the helmsman, that he is about to gybe

The standing end refers to the part of a rope or line that is not actively being used or manipulated during a task or operation. It is typically the part of the rope that is secured or fixed in place. It is the opposite of the Working End.

The section of rope between the standing end and a knot being made.

The fixed lines, wires, or rods that support a sailboat's mast and keep it upright and stable. Standing rigging is a critical component of a sailboat's structure, providing the necessary support to ensure the mast remains securely in place under the various forces exerted by the wind and sails. Unlike running rigging, which is adjusted...

To maintain a safe distance from a specific location, object, or vessel, often to avoid collision or interference. A "stand off" in maritime terminology refers to the deliberate action or state of keeping a vessel at a safe distance from a particular point, such as a harbour, shoreline, or another vessel. This manoeuvre is often...

To maintain course and speed of your vessel because you have right of way

The right-hand side of a vessel when facing forward towards the bow. Starboard is a fundamental directional reference used to describe the right-hand side of a ship or boat when one is facing towards the bow (the front of the vessel). This term is crucial for ensuring clear and consistent communication among crew members, particularly...

The side of a vessel that is directly to the right, at a 90-degree angle from the centreline, when facing forward. The term starboard beam is used to describe a specific location relative to a vessel's orientation. Starboard refers to the right-hand side of a vessel when facing the bow (the front), while beam refers...