Glossary Archive

A safety device used in maritime emergencies to transmit a distress signal and location to search and rescue authorities via satellite communication. An Electronic Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a critical piece of safety equipment designed to save lives in maritime emergencies. When activated, either manually or automatically upon contact with water, the EPIRB...

A digital database of maritime chart information designed for use with Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) to support safe navigation at sea. An Electronic Navigation Chart (ENC) is a critical tool in modern maritime navigation, providing a digital representation of nautical chart data that complies with the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) standards. ENCs...

A flag that denotes the nationality of a vessel, typically flown at the stern of a ship or boat. An ensign is a crucial part of maritime protocol and is used to indicate the nationality of a vessel. In most countries, ships are required to fly their national ensign when in territorial waters or when...

The approximate location of a vessel determined by dead reckoning, and accounting for external factors such as wind (Leeway) and Tide. An Estimated Position (EP) is a concept in marine navigation, especially when precise fixes, such as those derived from celestial observations or GPS, are unavailable. The EP is calculated based on the vessel's last...

A safety device used in maritime emergencies to transmit a distress signal and location to search and rescue authorities via satellite communication. An Electronic Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a critical piece of safety equipment designed to save lives in maritime emergencies. When activated, either manually or automatically upon contact with water, the EPIRB...

Waving both flags up and down indicates an error in the communication.

Repeated eight times, Letter E (Flag Signal) indicates an error.

The RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course is a shore-based program that introduces basic navigation and safety skills. Topics include reading charts, understanding tides, and using navigation tools. Participants also learn how to interpret weather forecasts and plan passages. This course is ideal for sailors, motorboaters, and anyone new to the water, providing a strong...

The approximate location of a vessel determined by dead reckoning, and accounting for external factors such as wind (Leeway) and Tide. An Estimated Position (EP) is a concept in marine navigation, especially when precise fixes, such as those derived from celestial observations or GPS, are unavailable. The EP is calculated based on the vessel's last...

The predicted time at which a vessel is expected to reach a specific destination, based on current speed, course, and environmental conditions. The Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) is a concept in maritime navigation and logistics. It represents the anticipated time a vessel will arrive at a designated location, such as a port, waypoint, or...