Glossary Archive

Removing unwanted water from inside a boat by hand or with a simple container. This is most common in dinghies, tenders and small open boats where water collects in the cockpit or bilge. A bucket, bailer or scoop may be used when a pump is not fitted or cannot keep up. It is a simple...

A utensil used to bail water out of a boat

Sea area of the Met Office Shipping Forecast. Lies off northern Scotland near Bill Bailey’s Bank and the Orkney Islands. Named for Bill Bailey’s Bank off Orkney, Bailey experiences northwesterly winds of Force 5–7 and rough to very rough seas, with tidal races exceeding 8 knots. These races have long challenged local mariners.

A spherical shape or object used as a day signal to indicate a vessel's status or condition, such as being anchored or aground. In maritime operations, a "ball" is a critical visual signal used to communicate specific conditions of a vessel to other mariners. It is typically a black, spherical object that is hoisted on...

Additional weight placed low in the hull to improve stability

A shallow area (shoal) close by a river mouth or harbour entrance or A measure of barometric pressure usually noted as 1000 millibars

A line or tackle system used to adjust the angle of a jib or genoa sheet to optimise sail shape and performance, particularly when sailing off the wind. A barber hauler is a secondary control line or tackle arrangement used to modify the lead angle of a headsail sheet, typically the jib or genoa, by...

No sails are set and boat is driven by the force of the wind on the spars and rigging

The Basic Sea Survival Certificate course teaches life-saving techniques for emergencies at sea. Participants learn how to use life rafts, don survival suits, and deploy signaling devices effectively. The course includes practical drills in simulated conditions, emphasizing personal preparation and survival strategies. This program is ideal for offshore sailors, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle...

A flat surface located at the stern of a boat, designed to provide easy access to the water for swimming or boarding. A bathing platform, often found on motor yachts, cruisers, and other leisure vessels, is a practical and safety-enhancing feature that extends from the stern (rear) of the boat. Typically, it is positioned just...