Glossary Archive

An international satellite-based search and rescue system that detects and locates distress signals from emergency beacons to assist in maritime, aviation, and land-based rescues.  The Cospas-Sarsat System is a global satellite network designed to provide accurate and timely distress alert and location data to assist search and rescue (SAR) operations. It operates using a combination...

The actual path a vessel follows over the surface of the Earth, as opposed to its heading or intended course. Course Over Ground (COG) is a critical concept in navigation, representing the true direction in which a vessel is moving relative to the Earth's surface. It is often measured in degrees from true north, and...

The compass direction a vessel must follow to reach a planned destination, taking into account the effects of wind, tide, and current. It is not simply the straight line between two points but an adjusted heading that compensates for any forces that might push the boat off track. By calculating a course to steer, a...

A national flag flown by a visiting vessel in foreign waters as a gesture of respect to the host country. A courtesy ensign is a flag flown by a vessel when it enters the territorial waters of a foreign nation, typically displayed on the starboard spreader or another prominent position. This flag is the national...

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 type of plough anchor renowned for its hinged shank and ability to reset itself effectively in various seabed conditions. The CQR anchor, often pronounced as "secure," is a widely recognised and trusted design in the world of recreational and professional boating. Invented in 1933 by Sir Geoffrey Ingram Taylor, the CQR anchor derives its...

A type of plough anchor renowned for its hinged shank and ability to reset itself effectively in various seabed conditions. The CQR anchor, often pronounced as "secure," is a widely recognised and trusted design in the world of recreational and professional boating. Invented in 1933 by Sir Geoffrey Ingram Taylor, the CQR anchor derives its...

The group of individuals who work together on a vessel or ship to operate, maintain, and navigate it. Depending on the type and size of the vessel, crew members may have various roles and responsibilities, such as captains, officers, engineers, deckhands, and other specialised positions. The crew plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe...

A cringle is a small metal ring or grommet typically sewn into a sail to provide a point for attaching lines or other rigging. Cringles reinforce the edges of the material and make it easier to secure and manipulate.

Sea area of the Met Office Shipping Forecast. Lies off the east coast of Scotland, near the mouth of the Cromarty Firth. Taking its name from the Cromarty Firth on Scotland’s east coast, Cromarty typically sees northwest winds of Force 4–6 and slight to moderate seas. Winter storms bring gale warnings on about 15% of...