Glossary Archive

An emergency device that responds to radar signals by transmitting a series of pulses to help rescuers locate a vessel or liferaft in distress.  A Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) is an essential piece of safety equipment used in maritime emergencies to assist in locating vessels, liferafts, or individuals in distress. When activated, a SART...

A German boating licence required for operating recreational motorboats and sailing vessels above certain power or length limits in German waters.  The Sportbootführerschein (SBF) is a mandatory licence for recreational boaters in Germany, covering both inland and coastal waters. It is divided into two main categories: the Sportbootführerschein Binnen (SBF Binnen) for inland waterways and...

A German boating licence required for operating recreational motorboats and sailing vessels on inland waterways.  The Sportbootführerschein Binnen (SBF Binnen) is a mandatory licence in Germany for those operating recreational boats with an engine of 15 horsepower (11.03 kW) or more on inland waterways, including rivers, lakes, and canals. The licence is available for both...

A German boating licence required for operating recreational motorboats and sailing vessels with an engine of more than 15 horsepower in coastal waters.  The Sportbootführerschein See (SBF See) is the official German boating licence for navigating coastal and offshore waters beyond inland waterways. It is mandatory for operating recreational boats with an engine exceeding 15...

The International Maritime Signal Flag Sierra. Meaning I am operating astern propulsion.If appended with a Numeral Pennant, Speed (velocity) in knots.

Amount of cable or 'rode' which is let out when anchoring or laying a cable.

An opening in the side of a ship or boat, designed to allow water on deck to drain overboard. In maritime terminology, a scupper is an essential feature of a vessel's design, specifically created to manage water that accumulates on the deck. These openings are typically located along the edges of the deck and are...

A device, typically a canvas or synthetic fabric drogue, deployed in the water to stabilise a vessel by creating drag and reducing drift in rough seas or strong currents. A sea anchor is a critical piece of equipment used in maritime navigation and safety. It is designed to be deployed off the bow or stern of a...

A daytime wind blowing across a coastline from the sea caused by the rising air from land heated by the sun

A stop-cock next to the hull to prevent accidental entry of water