Glossary Archive

A fairly high and steep part of the land that projects into the sea

A headsail is a sail set forward of the mast on a sailboat. It is typically smaller than the mainsail and is used to help propel the boat forward by catching the wind. Headsails come in various sizes and shapes, such as genoas, jibs, and spinnakers, and can be adjusted or changed depending on the...

To point the stem of the vessel into the wind

Movement through the water stem first    

Heaving To is a sailing maneuver used to stop or significantly slow down a sailing vessel by positioning the sails and rudder in a specific way. It’s commonly used in rough weather when the crew needs a break or for repairs. The boat remains relatively stable, drifting slowly but not progressing much forward. How it...

The angle a vessel leans over in the wind.

The vertical distance from the water's surface at Mean High Water Springs to the focal plane of a lighthouse's light source. Height of Light is a useful measurement in maritime navigation, as it determines the distance at which a lighthouse's light can be seen by vessels at sea. This measurement is taken from Mean High...

The vertical distance between the water's surface at any given time and the established chart datum, typically the lowest astronomical tide. The height of tide is a critical measurement in maritime navigation, as it directly affects the depth of water available for vessels to safely pass through or anchor in a given area. Tides are...

A ship's steering mechanism. A person who steers a ship.

The member of the crew who steers the vessel