Glossary Archive

A point of sail where the wind comes from behind the beam of the boat, typically at an angle of 90 to 160 degrees relative to the vessel's heading. A broad reach is one of the most efficient and comfortable points of sail, falling between a beam reach and a run. When sailing on a...

A type of claw-shaped anchor designed to provide strong holding power in a variety of seabed conditions.  The Bruce anchor, also known as a claw anchor, was originally designed by Peter Bruce in the 1970s for use on offshore oil rigs. It has since become popular among recreational boaters due to its reliable holding power...

The direction from a vessel's current position to a predetermined navigational point or waypoint. In marine navigation, Bearing to Waypoint is a concept used to guide a vessel towards a specific location, often defined by coordinates or a known landmark. The bearing is expressed in degrees, typically relative to true north or magnetic north, depending...

An upright wall within the hull of a ship. Particularly a watertight, load-bearing wall.

Softwood device for plugging holes in vessel or failed seacocks.

 A built-in bed or sleeping berth on a boat or ship, typically compact and designed to maximise space efficiency.  A bunk is a fundamental feature of maritime living quarters, providing a designated sleeping area for crew or passengers aboard a vessel. Unlike conventional beds, bunks are specifically designed to accommodate the unique spatial and stability challenges of...

A floating device anchored at a specific location in a body of water, used as a navigational aid, marker, or warning signal for vessels. A buoy serves as a critical tool in maritime navigation and safety, providing visual and sometimes auditory signals to mariners. These floating devices are typically anchored to the seabed or riverbed...

A personal flotation device designed to assist a person in staying afloat in water, typically used in recreational boating or water sports. A buoyancy aid is a type of personal flotation device (PFD) that provides additional buoyancy to help a person stay on the surface of the water. Unlike lifejackets, which are designed to turn...

A floating pyrotechnic device that emits dense, orange coloured smoke to signal distress or indicate position at sea.  A buoyant smoke flare is an essential piece of marine safety equipment designed for use in emergency situations. It is typically housed in a waterproof, buoyant casing that allows it to float on the water’s surface while...

A triangular flag worn at the masthead