Glossary Archive

International Morse Code sequence representing the letter T.

A low, raised edge running along the outer perimeter of a boat's deck, designed to provide footing stability and prevent gear or crew from slipping overboard. A toe rail is a critical feature on many sailing yachts and motorboats, serving both functional and safety purposes. Typically made from materials such as wood, aluminium, or fibreglass,...

Tomasz Schafernaker is a well-known meteorologist and television weather presenter for the BBC. Born on January 8, 1979, in Gdańsk, Poland, he moved to the United Kingdom when he was young and pursued a career in meteorology, developing a reputation for his engaging and sometimes humorous presentation style. Career Highlights Schafernaker joined the BBC Weather...

A line or wire used to support the boom of a sailboat when the sail is not hoisted, or to adjust the height of a spinnaker pole.  A topping lift is an essential component of a sailboat's rigging, serving multiple purposes depending on the type of sailboat and its configuration. Its primary function is to...

The outer hull of a vessel above the waterline, extending from the deck to the water's edge. The term "topsides" is a fundamental concept in marine terminology, describing the portion of a boat or ship's hull that is visible above the waterline. This area plays a critical role in the vessel's overall design, functionality, and...

Sea area of the Met Office Shipping Forecast. Located off the southern coast of Spain, near Cape Trafalgar. Named after Cape Trafalgar (site of Nelson’s victory, 1805), Trafalgar sees frequent southwesterly gales and rough seas, especially after October. Historical accounts note strong headwinds during the Battle of Trafalgar itself.

A navigation system designed to organise the flow of vessel traffic in congested or high-risk areas, ensuring safe passage by separating opposing traffic streams. A Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) is a regulatory measure established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance maritime safety in areas where vessel traffic is dense or where there is...

Two fixed objects are in transit when they are in line 

The transom is the flat, vertical surface at the back of a boat. It is typically where the outboard motor or stern drive is attached to a motor vessel. Sailing vessels often have a transom that can fold down to create a bathing platform. The transom provides structural support and stability for the vessel and...

A sliding fitting or track on a sailing vessel, used to adjust the position of a sail's sheet or other control lines for optimal sail trim. A traveller is an essential component of a sailboat's rigging system, designed to provide precise control over the angle and tension of the mainsail or other sails. It typically consists of...