Glossary Archive

Any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from the atmosphere and reaches the Earth's surface. Precipitation is a key component of the Earth's water cycle and plays a crucial role in marine and coastal environments. It occurs when water vapour in the atmosphere condenses into water droplets or ice...

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

A line or tackle rigged to the boom or spar to prevent unwanted movement, particularly to stop a boom from swinging dangerously during an accidental gybe. A preventer is an essential safety feature in sailing, designed to stabilise the boom and reduce the risk of injury or damage during certain manoeuvres or in challenging conditions....

The zero-degree longitude line that is the starting point for measuring longitude and dividing the Earth into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. The Prime Meridian is an essential global navigation and cartography reference line, particularly for marine navigation. It runs from the North Pole to the South Pole, passing through the Royal Observatory in Greenwich,...

Standardised words or phrases used in marine radio communication to ensure clarity, reduce misunderstandings, and maintain efficient and safe exchanges between vessels and shore stations. Procedure words, often referred to as prowords, are a set of internationally recognised terms used in voice radio communications to convey specific meanings clearly and concisely. These words are part...

The RYA Professional Practices and Responsibilities (PPR) course is a mandatory online qualification for individuals seeking a Commercial Endorsement on their RYA certificates. The course covers key topics such as legal obligations, safety management, and customer service in the marine industry. Participants learn how to operate professionally and responsibly, ensuring compliance with international regulations. This...

A propeller is a fan-like device that propels a boat or ship through the water by converting rotational motion into thrust. Propellers typically have multiple blades shaped to efficiently move water and create forward motion for the vessel. They are commonly found on the stern (back) of boats and ships and can be powered by...

A propeller shaft is a long, cylindrical metal shaft that connects the boat's transmission or gearbox to the propeller. It transmits power from the engine to the propeller, allowing it to spin and propel the boat through the water. The propeller shaft is typically made of stainless steel or other durable materials to withstand the...