Glossary Archive

The RYA Dinghy Level 3 course focuses on refining sailing techniques and building confidence in more challenging conditions. Participants enhance their understanding of sail trim, boat balance, and navigation. The course introduces more advanced maneuvers and emphasizes decision-making and problem-solving on the water. By the end, sailors will have the skills to handle their boats...

The RYA Dinghy Performance Sailing course is designed for experienced sailors aiming to enhance their racing and technical skills. This advanced course focuses on maximizing speed, efficiency, and control in performance dinghies. Participants learn to fine-tune rigging, optimize sail trim, and manage boat balance for peak performance in various wind conditions. Practical sessions cover advanced...

The RYA Dinghy Regional Racing course is designed for sailors transitioning to competitive racing at a regional level. Participants learn advanced race tactics, starting techniques, and mark rounding strategies. The course focuses on refining boat handling and improving speed through sail trimming and balance adjustments. Practical sessions simulate race scenarios, helping sailors build confidence and...

The RYA Dinghy Sailing with Spinnakers course introduces sailors to the exciting challenge of spinnaker handling. Participants learn how to rig, hoist, trim, and gybe spinnakers effectively while managing boat balance and speed. The course also covers safety procedures, troubleshooting, and teamwork essential for using spinnakers in varying wind conditions. By the end, participants will...

The RYA Dinghy Seamanship Skills course focuses on developing practical abilities to handle dinghies in a variety of conditions. Participants learn essential techniques like reefing, recovering from capsizes, and maneuvering in confined spaces. The course also emphasizes safety procedures and problem-solving, preparing sailors for challenges such as strong winds, tidal streams, or equipment failures. Practical...

The RYA Dinghy Start Racing course is perfect for sailors looking to begin their journey into competitive sailing. This course covers racing basics, including starting procedures, racing rules, and strategic boat positioning. Practical sessions focus on mark rounding, optimizing boat speed, and handling the pressure of competition. By practicing simulated races, participants build confidence in...

To lower the ensign briefly as a salute.  It is not re-hoisted until the vessel saluted has dipped and re-hoisted hers in acknowledgement

A light illuminating a sector or very narrow angle and intended to mark a direction to be followed.

The direction in which lateral marks (port and starboard buoys) should be passed when entering a harbour or following a main channel, based on the IALA buoyage system. The Direction of Buoyage on a nautical chart indicates the general direction in which lateral marks (such as port and starboard buoys) should be passed when following...

The weight of the water a vessel displaces when it is floating, which is equal to the vessel's own weight. Displacement is a fundamental concept in naval architecture and marine operations, as it directly relates to a vessel's buoyancy and stability. When a boat or ship is placed in water, it pushes aside or "displaces"...