Glossary Archive

The back (stern) left (port) side of the vessel

The situation in sailing where the wind is coming over the port (left) side of the vessel, and the boom is positioned on the starboard (right) side. Port Tack is a fundamental concept in sailing that describes the orientation of a vessel relative to the wind. When a sailboat is on a port tack, the...

Measurement of the geometric strength of satellite configuration in a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver. It quantifies the effect of satellite geometry on the accuracy of the position calculation. A lower PDOP value indicates better satellite geometry and results in more accurate position fixes. PDOP is calculated based on the positions of the satellites...

The RYA Powerboat Advanced course is designed for experienced powerboaters operating in challenging conditions, including night navigation. Participants learn advanced passage planning, navigation, and high-speed handling in adverse weather. The course emphasizes safety, decision-making, and the use of radar and electronic aids. By the end, participants will have the confidence to operate powerboats independently in...

The RYA Powerboat Intermediate course bridges the gap between Level 2 and advanced powerboating. Participants learn navigation, passage planning, and handling powerboats in moderate conditions. The course includes practical exercises on anchoring, docking, and responding to emergencies. This program is ideal for those seeking to improve their skills and prepare for more challenging boating environments...

Permission granted to a ship to have dealings with a port, given after quarantine or on showing a clean bill of health.

Precipitation refers to any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface. This can significantly impact marine ecosystems, including altering ocean salinity levels and nutrient concentrations.

Pressed into service is the term used to describe the action of the British Navy filling their ships’ crew quotas by kidnapping men off the streets and forcing them into service. This was called Impressment and was done by Press Gangs.

Press gangs were groups of men employed by the British Royal Navy in the 17th to 19th centuries to forcibly recruit individuals into naval service. These gangs would roam the streets and coastal areas looking for able-bodied men to serve on naval vessels, often using coercion, deception, or outright abduction to meet recruitment quotas. Press...

The wind direction that occurs most frequently at a place over a certain period