Glossary Archive

A point of sail where the wind is coming from forward of the beam, typically about 60° to 80° off the bow. It is one of the fastest and most efficient points of sail, as the sails generate a good balance of lift and forward drive. On a close reach, the sails should be trimmed...

Used primarily in maritime and aviation contexts to describe the shortest distance that will be achieved between two moving objects, such as ships or aircraft, if they continue on their current courses and speeds without any changes. It is a critical parameter in collision avoidance and navigation safety systems. Key Concepts: Closest Point of Approach...

A clove hitch is a versatile, easy-to-tie knot commonly used to secure a rope to a post or pole temporarily. One of its most common uses is securing fenders to the guardrail. A clove hitch is one of the most widely used knots in sailing due to its simplicity, quick application, and ability to hold...

A deck fitting used to grip and hold a rope or line under load while allowing for controlled release when needed.  A clutch is a specialised deck fitting commonly found on sailing yachts, designed to secure a line while still enabling it to be adjusted or released under tension. Unlike a simple cleat, which requires...

The raised portion of a boat's deck, typically over the cabin, providing additional headroom and space below deck. The coachroof, also known as the cabin top, is an elevated section of a boat's deck that sits above the main cabin area. Its primary function is to provide extra headroom inside the cabin, making the interior...

A raised edge or border around an opening on a deck, such as a hatch, designed to prevent water from entering. Coamings are essential structural components on vessels, typically found around hatches, cockpits, and other deck openings. Their primary function is to act as a barrier to prevent seawater, rain, or spray from entering the...

The RYA Coastal Skipper Practical (Motor) course is designed for experienced motor cruisers preparing for extended coastal passages. Participants learn advanced navigation, passage planning, and handling motorboats in challenging conditions. Practical exercises include night cruising, managing tidal streams, and dealing with emergencies. By the end, participants will feel confident skippering motor cruisers on coastal voyages,...

The RYA Coastal Skipper Practical (Sail) course is for experienced sailors preparing for extended coastal passages. Participants learn advanced navigation, passage planning, and skippering in challenging conditions. The five-day course includes night sailing, emergency drills, and managing a crew effectively. By the end, participants will have the confidence to take responsibility for longer voyages in...

The RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory course is an advanced shore-based program for experienced sailors. Topics include complex navigation, advanced meteorology, and passage planning in tidal waters. Participants also learn about collision regulations and safety protocols for offshore passages. This course is essential for those preparing for the Coastal Skipper or Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams.

The organisation responsible for search and rescue operations in UK waters. His Majesty's Coastguard (HMCG) is a section of the MCA responsible for initiating and coordinating all maritime search and rescue within the UK Maritime Search and Rescue Region. This includes mobilising, organising and tasking adequate resources and assets, such as the RNLI or coastguard helicopters, to respond to persons in distress...